Diet & Prevention

Diet and Prevention for Watery Diarrhea (Heat Type)

Supporting Healthy Digestion According to Traditional Chinese Medicine

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, healthy digestion depends on balanced Spleen and Stomach function and the body's ability to properly regulate Heat, Dampness, and fluid metabolism. When excess Heat and Dampness accumulate in the digestive tract, they may lead to watery diarrhea with foul odor, increased bowel movements, intestinal irritation, dehydration, and digestive discomfort. Proper nutrition, adequate hydration, and cooling, easily digestible foods help restore digestive balance and promote long-term gastrointestinal wellness.

For Best Results

  • Feed meals at consistent times each day to support healthy digestive function.
  • Prioritize freshly prepared, easily digestible meals served at room temperature or slightly warm.
  • Provide clean, fresh drinking water at all times to help maintain hydration.
  • Bone broth (without onions, garlic, or excessive salt) may be added to encourage fluid intake and improve appetite.
  • Avoid sudden diet changes and introduce new foods gradually over 5–7 days.
  • Feed smaller, more frequent meals if your pet has a sensitive digestive system.
  • Allow adequate rest during episodes of digestive upset.
  • Avoid vigorous exercise immediately before or after meals.
  • Monitor stool consistency, hydration, appetite, and energy levels as digestive function improves.

Dietary Recommendations

Cooked Vegetables (20%)

Pumpkin, zucchini, Chinese cabbage, or squash provide gentle fiber that helps support normal stool consistency while soothing the digestive tract.

White Rice (10%)

A highly digestible source of carbohydrates that is gentle on the stomach and helps support normal bowel function during temporary digestive upset.

Boiled Duck, White Fish, or Lean Pork (70%)

Cooling, lean proteins traditionally recommended to help nourish the body while supporting digestive recovery and helping reduce excess internal Heat.

Foods and Feeding Practices to Limit

  • Greasy, fatty, fried, or heavily processed foods
  • Rich treats and table scraps
  • Spicy or heavily seasoned foods
  • Raw, spoiled, or contaminated foods
  • Sudden diet changes
  • Excessive dairy products
  • Overfeeding or frequent treats between meals

Daily Portion Guidelines

Dogs

Small Dogs (<20 lbs):
½–1 cup (approximately 200–350 g / 0.4–0.8 lbs) per day

Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs):
1½–2½ cups (approximately 400–750 g / 0.8–1.6 lbs) per day

Large Dogs (>50 lbs):
3–4½ cups (approximately 800–1500 g / 1.7–3.3 lbs) per day

Cats

Small Cats (<5 lbs):
¼–½ cup (approximately 50–125 g / 0.1–0.3 lbs) per day

Medium Cats (5–10 lbs):
½–¾ cup (approximately 100–250 g / 0.2–0.6 lbs) per day

Large Cats (>10 lbs):
¾–1 cup (approximately 150–300 g / 0.3–0.7 lbs) per day

Ongoing Digestive Support

Mix Pet Formula for Watery Diarrhea (Heat Type) into your pet's food as directed to help support healthy digestion, clear excess Heat, resolve Dampness, soothe the digestive tract, and promote normal stool consistency according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Once stools have returned to normal, transition to Pet Formula for Firm & Well-Formed Stools to help maintain long-term digestive balance, intestinal health, and overall gastrointestinal wellness.

Consistent nutrition, proper hydration, regular feeding schedules, and digestive support are important foundations for maintaining healthy digestion, normal bowel movements, nutrient absorption, and overall wellness in dogs and cats.