Some mucus is normal and necessary in order to facilitate the movement of the waste through the bowels. When the amount of this mucus increases in volume or changes color or smell this could signal a problem developing for your dog. The underlying issues that can cause this sign range from benign to untreatable, depending on the cause. Because some of the causes of mucus in stool can be time sensitive it's best to contact your veterinarian as soon a possible, especially if the dog has other signs such as diarrhea or fever.
Most stool includes some mucus to facilitate its movement through the bowels. Increases or changes in the mucus composition of your dog’s stool may be indicative of underlying conditions.
Mucus in the Stool Average Cost
From 73 quotes ranging from $200 - $2,500
Average Cost
$250
Small amounts of mucus within the stool generally isn’t a problem by itself. If it is much larger amounts than you normally see or if paired with the following signs, a call to the veterinarian is warranted and a stool sample should be gathered.
Types
There are changes to the feces that may occur concurrently.
Black and tarry
Blood in stool (red)
Diarrhea
Grey and greasy looking
Worms
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There are a number of things that can cause increased mucus in the stool, ranging from the benign to the lethal.
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In order to make a diagnosis your veterinarian will want a full history of the animal, as well as a general physical exam. Questions regarding your dog’s diet and appetite will be asked, as well as inquiries about whether any vomiting or diarrhea has been recently observed. A biochemistry profile, complete blood count, and urinalysis may be recommended to determine the underlying cause. A colonoscopy and a fecal float may also be recommended. The fecal float test can help your veterinarian to determine if adult parasites are present in the canine’s system and the colonoscopy allows a visual inspection of the large intestine to detect tears or other inconsistencies. If a definitive diagnosis has not been determined by this point, additional tests will depend on signs and on the results of previous tests. If foreign objects or tumors are suspected x-ray and ultrasound imaging may be used to try and detect them.
If your dog is at risk of developing mucusy stool, check out our pet insurance comparison tool. Brought to you by Pet Insurer, Wag! Wellness lets pet parents compare insurance plans from leading companies like FIGO and Nationwide.
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Treatment of mucus in the stool will depend on the underlying cause. As the causes of increased mucus in the stool can cover a large range of underlying causes, the treatments are also many. In cases of indiscriminate eating or stress, it may clear up with no further treatment. A short term change to bland, easily digestible foods may be a beneficial change, and in some mild cases your veterinarian may recommend antidiarrheal mediations. If your pet has a viral, bacterial, parasitic or fungal infection, the proper medication to clear up the disease will be prescribed, and if food allergies or sensitivities are diagnosed then a hypoallergenic diet may be recommended. Probiotics may also be recommended to help the patient recover, especially after antibiotic or antifungal treatments. If a tumor or another growth is involved, it may require surgical excision which may be followed by chemotherapy.
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Depending on the underlying cause, recovery and management methods can be extremely variable. You will need to make sure that you make any changes to your dog’s diet or environment as recommended by your veterinarian, and if your pet was prescribed any medication it is imperative that you give them the entire course to prevent reoccurrence of the problem.
The dietary and lifestyle changes for some patients may be short-term or life-long dependent on the cause. Although some issues are mild enough not to warrant a return trip to the veterinarian, many other disorders will require an additional visit to check how the patient is responding to treatment.
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Mucus in the Stool Average Cost
From 73 quotes ranging from $200 - $2,500
Average Cost
$250
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Shih Tzu
Four Years
Unknown severity
23 found helpful
Unknown severity
Has Symptoms
Orangey diarrhea with mucus and vomiting
April 10, 2021
Owner
Dr. Linda S. MVB MRCVS
23 Recommendations
Mucus in the stool indicates lower gut inflammation (colitis). As she is also vomiting she is at risk of dehydration and it is best she is assessed so we can ensure she is well hydrated and doesn't have a fever or abdominal pain. The vet may well need to issue treatment such as antibiotics, an anti nausea injection and fluids.
April 10, 2021
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mix
Six Weeks
Unknown severity
22 found helpful
Unknown severity
Has Symptoms
Pooping mucus. But also just changed dog food brands
Jan. 31, 2021
Owner
Dr. Linda S. MVB MRCVS
22 Recommendations
An abrupt diet change can lead to diarrhoea and mucus in the stool. Other potential causes include an infection, stress, parasites etc. Be sure the pup is otherwise well and up to date with their parasite prevention. If signs continue or they seem unwell, a vet visit is best.
Jan. 31, 2021
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Mucus in the Stool Average Cost
From 73 quotes ranging from $200 - $2,500
Average Cost
$250
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