Recognizing diarrhea in cats
It’s not uncommon for a cat to have diarrhea. The first sign is a change in stool consistency. On its own, this is often not a big deal and if your cat otherwise seems lively, it usually gets better again after 1-2 days. However, you should keep a close eye on diarrhea that occurs along with other symptoms. If your cat doesn’t get better or the symptoms worsen, you should see a vet.
The most common accompanying symptoms of diarrhea in cats include:
mucous or bloody stool
eliminates outside the litter box
shows pain when defecating (hissing, loud meowing)
restlessly circles the litter box
unusually clingy or withdrawn behavior
fever
If you’re unsure, you can of course go to the clinic at any time and have your cat examined. Sometimes a phone call is enough. Also, if your cat is still a kitten or already a senior, you shouldn’t wait a few days, but go to a clinic right away. Small kittens or older cats dehydrate more quickly and are also at higher risk of nutrient deficiency.
Diarrhea in cats is not that uncommon. Observe your kitty for 1-2 days and consult a vet if necessary.
Which home remedies help with diarrhea in cats?
Unlike with dogs, there aren’t many home remedies for our cats that you can use without veterinary advice. To give the digestive tract a break, you can feed your kitty special bland food for 24 hours. This consists of steamed chicken and unseasoned, well-cooked rice. Always give only small amounts and several portions throughout the day.
You should only give your cat other home remedies or medications after consulting a vet! For further treatment it’s important to know theexact cause. If your cat doesn’t feel better after 24 hours of bland food, a visit to the vet is essential.
Our →VET Stomach & Digestion Fit with Chicken and Rice is delicious and healthy bland food for a sensitive and upset digestive tract in your cat. Additionally, valuable fiber from carrot and psyllium husks support bowel function.
Treatment methods for diarrhea
At the clinic, the vets will examine your cat to find out what’s causing the diarrhea and which treatment method can help. Common measures to help with mild diarrhea include giving medication for nausea, pain and/or to protect the stomach, administering an infusion with important electrolytes, salts and minerals as well as bland food. If the diarrhea is caused by a parasite infestation or virus, medication for the underlying illness and, if necessary, antibiotics are also used.
Diarrhea caused by improper diet, allergies or intolerances requires a dietary change. Your vet will usually advise you on this.
The right food is essential. Diarrhea can be an early sign of improper nutrition.
At Pets Deli, we know how difficult it can sometimes be to find the right food for your feline friend. Not only are cats real gourmets, but allergies, intolerances and digestive problems should also be addressed with the food. At Pets Deli you have a wide selection of high-quality meat varieties, tempting textures and important nutrients. How about our →Sensitive Pure Meat Wet Food with Kangaroo and Catnip for especially good digestibility?
Extra meaty, grain- & sugar-free, and suitable for allergy sufferers
Causes: Why does your cat get diarrhea?
Ate something wrong
If your cat has diarrhea but otherwise seems fit and healthy, there’s no reason to worry at first. Maybe your kitty ate or licked up something that upset her stomach. Vomiting is also completely normal behavior in this case. It’s a form of self-help for your cat to →quickly eliminate incompatible substances.
Stress
Even temporary stress, for example from a move or lots of visitors can cause acute diarrhea. In this case, observe your cat, reduce the stressors and see if the symptoms subside after 1-2 days. If your cat tends to get stressed quickly in general, →aromatherapy could be helpful for you.
Improper diet
Often, →feeding mistakes, food intolerances or allergies are a cause of diarrhea. Also, frequent changes in food or too many treats can upset your cat’s stomach. If you’re unsure what a →healthy cat diet looks like, you’re welcome to →get free advice from our experts.
Parasite infestation or virus
If your cat still isn’t better after 2 days, a parasite infestation or virus could be the cause. →Giardia or roundworms and tapeworms are common parasites in cats. Viral infections such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline panleukopenia (parvovirus) are also possible. In that case, it’s important not to wait any longer and go to the vet to find out the exact cause.
Infection or tumor-related causes
Even though you don’t want to think about it, something more serious like a severe infection, e.g. pancreatitis or thyroid disease can lead to severe diarrhea. Tumors in the intestines or in other parts of the body can also cause diarrhea and should be treated medically as soon as possible.
Severe constipation
If your cat has difficulty passing stool, severe →constipation, e.g. due to a foreign body, could be the cause. A change in position within the intestines (kinks or intussusceptions) can also manifest as diarrhea in cats.
Chronic bowel disease
Just like us humans, our four-legged friends aren’t immune to chronic inflammatory bowel disease. This is an autoimmune disease. Other signs include fatigue and dull, scruffy coat.
If you are unsure, take your cat directly to the vet and have her examined.
Preventing diarrhea in your cat
No one can guarantee that your kitty will never have diarrhea in her lifetime. But with a healthy and balanced diet you lay the foundation for a long and healthy cat life! So pay attention to what goes into your cat’s bowl, and choose →digestive-friendly cat food, specially tailored for sensitive stomachs. Also, only feed →species-appropriate snacks. In addition to the right food, a good mix of exercise and rest is also important for your cat’s health.
