Soothing stomachs with bland diets

One of the most common health conditions our dogs and cats face is gastroenteritis. According to PetSure claims data in 2024, gastroenteritis was the second most claimed condition in dogs, and the most claimed condition in cats. 

An inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, gastroenteritis affects the stomach and intestines and can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy. While it is treatable, they can also present as a chronic condition that can persist throughout your pet’s lifetime. 

The costs of treating gastroenteritis have escalated over the last decade, with 2024’s average treatment cost for inflammatory bowel disease in dogs around $1,568 (with a maximum of $23,252) and in cats, $1,373 (maximum of $16,284)**. 

Pets experiencing this condition or other tummy upsets may find relief in bland diets. The unappetising name belies effectively simple, easily digestible meals that are low in fat and fibre and easy on a sensitive stomach.  

Pre-packaged bland diet food is available, but you can also prepare your own. While not a long-term solution, this protein and carbohydrate-focused meal plan can support your pet’s recovery and ease digestive distress. 

Why it works

Of the six main nutrient categories, a bland diet emphasises proteins, which aid with tissue building and repair, and carbohydrates, a great source of energy – both of which are vital to any kind of digestive recovery. 

The mild ingredients of a bland diet minimise the risk of irritating your pet’s bowels and provide gentle nutrition.  

It’s important to consult your vet when formulating and administering bland diets, especially for younger animals. A qualified veterinary nutritionist can advise on the adequacy of the diet’s nutritional value. 

What’s in it

Although both cats and dogs can be stricken with gastroenteritis, their dietary needs differ greatly. Dogs are omnivores and can derive essential nutrients from plant sources, while cats, being carnivores, have a higher protein requirement and unique nutritional needs. Bland meals for each will be different but ultimately share a common goal. 

For dogs:  

Combine plain, steamed fluffy white rice, soft pasta or boiled potatoes with boiled, lean, boneless and skinless white meat such as chicken or turkey, egg whites or low-fat cottage cheese. 

For cats:  

Boiled, skinless white meat (turkey breast or chicken) or poached, boneless/skinless white fish. 

How to prepare

Ingredients should be cooked without oil or seasoning – remember, the goal is to be as bland as possible. Portion sizes should be small so as not to overload the digestive system, and should be served cooled. 

Make sure your pet has plenty of water available as well. 

Time served

A bland diet prepared at home and served for three to five days should be enough to get your pet’s gastroenteritis symptoms under control. Afterwards, it’s a matter of gradually phasing out the bland diet with a 50/50 mix of regular pet food over five days until things are back to normal. 

If the symptoms persist or worsen, get in touch with your vet.  

Dogs and cats may seem like ceaseless eating machines, but it’s not always in their best interest. It’s up to us to make sure they’re getting the right nutrition and, when things aren’t quite right, to get them back on track – even if it is a matter of taste. 

_{** FY25 PetSure claims data, average amount claimed per case and maximum total claimed per case (dogs & cats).}