The health condition of your furry companion is actually hidden in their daily stool. The Animal Protection Office of New Taipei City, Taiwan, reminds pet owners that the bowel movements of dogs and cats reflect their intestinal health and stress levels. If abnormalities appear, immediate veterinary consultation is necessary to avoid delaying treatment.
Currently, eight animal shelters in New Taipei City house over 1,200 dogs and cats. Animal protection staff observe feces daily to provide firsthand information to assist veterinarians in assessing animal health. The office emphasizes that pet gastrointestinal health is closely related to diet, exercise, and the home environment. Symptoms such as diarrhea, bloody stool, or unusual odors may signal illness.
For example, Liu Yefeng, a resident of Shulin District, saved his dog's health by paying attention to abnormal bowel movements. Mr. Liu adopted a dog named "Xiao Jing" from the Zhonghe Animal Shelter and carefully monitored its bowel habits. Recently, he noticed diarrhea and loss of appetite in Xiao Jing and promptly took her to a veterinary hospital. Diagnosed with tapeworm infection, the dog recovered smoothly after deworming and dietary adjustments. Mr. Liu said, "Being attentive every day is the most practical way to care for your furry child."
Xue Dun-yuan, chairman of the New Taipei City Veterinary Medical Association, states that stool is a "barometer" of intestinal health. If stool is watery and smelly, adult dogs can be fasted for half a day to one day to rest their stomach and intestines. However, if diarrhea persists or if there is bloody stool, vomiting, or dehydration, immediate veterinary care is advised. Puppies and senior dogs require even earlier attention.
Xue also explains that stool color can indicate health status. For instance, red or reddish-brown stool with mucus may indicate bleeding in the lower digestive tract or anus; black, tarry stool suggests bleeding in the upper digestive tract. White stool necessitates monitoring for excess calcium or bile duct obstruction. Generally, normal stool is brown, occasionally yellowish depending on diet and bile secretion.
The New Taipei City Animal Protection Office stresses that daily observation combined with regular health checks is essential. Detecting issues early allows adjustment of diet and lifestyle to prevent minor problems from becoming serious illnesses.
