What should you know about cholera in dogs?

Cholera is a human intestinal infection, so a dog with vomiting and watery diarrhoea may have a different condition. Causes can include contaminated food, parasites, toxins, viral disease or another intestinal infection. A veterinarian may ask about recent food, water, travel, contact with other animals and possible toxin exposure.

Fluid loss can lead to dry or sticky gums, weakness, sunken eyes, reduced urine and collapse. Puppies, elderly dogs and dogs with other illnesses may deteriorate faster. Do not assume that a human diagnosis or treatment plan applies to an animal.

Call a veterinarian promptly and describe the number and appearance of stools, vomiting, drinking, urination and energy level. Offer clean water if the dog is alert and able to swallow, but never force fluids into a weak or vomiting dog. Do not give human anti-diarrhoeal drugs, painkillers or antibiotics unless a veterinarian prescribes them.

Separate the sick dog from other animals, clean faeces safely and wash hands after handling waste. A veterinarian may use oral or IV Fluid Therapy, tests, anti-nausea treatment or targeted medicine depending on the examination. [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) is not a substitute for veterinary dosing advice.

Use an emergency veterinary service for collapse, confusion, repeated vomiting, bloody or black stool, pale gums, severe weakness, breathing difficulty, a swollen painful abdomen, suspected poison or inability to keep water down.

Puppies with diarrhoea, dogs that stop urinating, and animals with known kidney, heart or immune problems should be assessed without delay. [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/) can have many causes, so a worsening pattern matters even when the dog still seems alert.

Ask what cause is most concerning, whether a stool test or blood test is needed, how much water is safe, which warning signs require return, and whether other pets or household members need precautions.