Colitis (Aka “Large Bowel Diarrhoea”)
Colitis can look dramatic, and it’s a common reason for worried owners to seek help. The good news is that most dogs recover quickly with appropriate care. However, some pets experience ongoing or recurring flare-ups that can be stressful for both them and their families.
At Holistic Vet Care, we understand how challenging this can be. Using a gentle, whole-body approach—including personalised nutrition, acupuncture, and herbal medicine— our fully qualified vets aim to calm inflammation, support healthy digestion, and restore your pet’s overall wellbeing.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
What is colitis?
Colitis is inflammation of the large intestine, which can cause discomfort and frequent diarrhoea. It can be triggered by stress, sudden changes in diet, infections, or parasites. In some cases, it may be linked to underlying immune system issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Often, the exact cause isn’t clear, particularly in acute cases. While colitis is usually short-lived and resolves on its own, it can sometimes become chronic or recur – making ongoing management important for your pet’s comfort and wellbeing.
Holistic treatment
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be a valuable part of supporting the health and recovery of pets with colitis, alongside their conventional treatment plans.
With acupuncture and carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine, we aim to support pets with colitis in the following ways:
- Support appropriate intestinal motility
- Support healthy blood circulation to the digestive tract.
- Support protection of the colon.
- Support a healthy gut biome.
- Support healthy digestive function.
- Help reduce inflammation.
- Help reduce pain and abdominal discomfort.
- Help ease diarrhoea.
- Support healthy energy levels and vitality.
Through these approaches, our qualified vets aim to support your pet throughout their treatment journey by helping to improve their comfort, overall health, and quality of life.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, food therapy is foundational in addressing underlying “patterns of disharmony” (the way disease presents within the individual). We aim to support the body’s natural balance with tailored whole-food diets, rather than heavily processed pet foods which may contribute to inflammation in some pets.
With colitis, our goal is to help your pet feel more comfortable, energetic, and well-nourished. We aim to achieve this through targeted dietary changes that reduce inflammation, restore a healthy gut microbiome, support the immune system, and promote healing of the intestinal lining.
Every pet is unique, however, and our goal is to tailor dietary recommendations to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis, stage of disease, and overall constitution. Specific guidance can be discussed with one of our qualified vets during your consultation.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common clinical signs of colitis?
- Frequent diarrhoea, with urgency and straining
- Small volumes of diarrhoea, with mucus or fresh blood
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Weight loss with chronic cases
How is colitis typically treated by conventional vets?
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular vet, as we do not offer surgical or medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Due to the many different causes, treatment for colitis is tailored to individual patients. Initial treatment for all cases focuses on de-worming, managing symptoms, and preventing deterioration.
Initial management for acute cases – and flare-ups in chronic cases – is likely to include a bland diet (e.g. plain chicken with rice) with probiotics.
Dietary management is especially important for chronic cases – with a special focus on avoiding trigger-foods (e.g. strict prescription diets) and supplementing dietary fibre if appropriate.
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, healing, and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
