Upset stomach? What to feed your dog or cat when their tummy isn’t quite right

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).} 

FAQs

How long should I feed my dog a bland diet?

A bland diet for dogs should last three to five days, then gradually transition back to regular food over another five days using a 50/50 mix. If symptoms persist or worsen beyond this window, consult your vet as soon as possible.

What bland foods are safe for cats with upset stomachs?

Safe bland foods for cats include boiled or poached skinless white meat such as chicken or turkey breast, and boneless, skinless white fish. Cats are carnivores with high protein needs, so their bland diet differs from dogs and should avoid plant-based fillers.

Can I give my cat rice when they have an upset stomach?

Rice is not recommended for cats with an upset stomach. Unlike dogs, cats are obligate carnivores and cannot efficiently derive nutrition from plant-based carbohydrates. Stick to plain, cooked white meat or white fish instead, and check with your vet.

Is gastroenteritis in cats and dogs covered by pet insurance?

Gastroenteritis is a common condition that may be covered by pet insurance, depending on your policy and whether it is a pre-existing condition. According to PetSure claims data, it is one of the most frequently claimed conditions in both cats and dogs in Australia.

How much does gastroenteritis treatment cost in Australia?

Gastroenteritis treatment costs in Australia vary widely. Based on 2024 PetSure claims data, the average treatment cost for inflammatory bowel disease was around $1,568 for dogs and $1,373 for cats, with some cases reaching well above $16,000.

When should I take my pet to the vet for an upset stomach?

Take your pet to the vet if vomiting or diarrhoea persists beyond a few days, worsens suddenly, or is accompanied by lethargy, blood, or loss of appetite. A bland diet can support mild recovery, but a vet assessment is essential for ongoing or severe symptoms.

Can puppies and kittens eat a bland diet?

Bland diets can be used for puppies and kittens, but extra caution is needed. Young animals have specific nutritional requirements, and a restricted diet can affect their development. Always consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist before placing a young pet on a bland diet.

Should I add seasoning or oil to my pet’s bland diet meals?

Never add seasoning, salt, or oil to bland diet meals for pets. These ingredients can irritate a sensitive stomach and worsen digestive symptoms. All proteins and carbohydrates should be plainly cooked — boiled or steamed — and served cooled without any additions.