Why Would a Cat Have Diarrhea? Causes, Symptoms & Treatment 😱

Why my cat has diarrhea?

As a pet owner, it’s never easy to see your furry friend in discomfort, and diarrhea can certainly cause that.

But don’t worry, we’re here to help you understand why your cat might be experiencing this issue and what you can do about it.

What is Diarrhea? 💩

Diarrhea is a condition characterized by loose or watery stools. It can occur in any animal, including humans and cats. In cats, diarrhea can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).

Acute diarrhea often comes on suddenly and resolves quickly, often even before pet owners have a chance to notice. It can be caused by factors such as dietary changes, eating something inappropriate, or an infection.

Chronic diarrhea, on the other hand, is a persistent problem that lasts for more than three weeks. It can occur intermittently and may require veterinary intervention. Chronic diarrhea can be particularly frustrating for pet owners, as it often requires ongoing care and can cause significant distress for the cat.

Causes of Chronic Diarrhea in Cats 🐱

Chronic diarrhea in cats can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): This is a condition where the cat’s body’s own immune system attacks the cells of the gastrointestinal tract.

• Bacterial Imbalances: Sometimes, the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut can be disrupted, leading to digestive issues.

• Parasites or Infectious Agents: Certain parasites or infections can cause chronic diarrhea.

• Food Allergies: Just like humans, cats can also have food allergies that can cause digestive issues.

• Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like hyperthyroidism or kidney disease can also cause chronic diarrhea.

Diagnosing Chronic Diarrhea in Cats 🩺

Diagnosing the cause of chronic diarrhea in cats can be challenging and may require a variety of tests. These can include blood work, urine testing, imaging studies such as X-rays or abdominal ultrasounds, and fecal tests.

In some cases, your vet may recommend exploratory surgery to take biopsies of the intestines.

It’s important to remember that these tests are necessary to determine the cause of the diarrhea and guide treatment. It’s also crucial to follow up with your vet and ensure that the treatment is working.

Treating Chronic Diarrhea in Cats 💊

The treatment for chronic diarrhea in cats depends on the underlying cause. It can range from steroids for inflammatory disorders, antibiotics for bacterial imbalances, probiotics, or even a change in diet.

It’s important to follow your vet’s instructions and ensure that your cat is receiving the necessary treatment.

Home Remedies for Diarrhea in Cats 🏠

While it’s important to consult with your vet if your cat is experiencing chronic diarrhea, there are a few things you can try at home:

• Feed a Bland Diet: A diet of boiled chicken breast (no skin or seasoning) and a little bit of white rice can be easier on your cat’s stomach.

• Probiotics: Probiotics can help balance the gut bacteria and may help with diarrhea.

• Avoid Human Anti-Diarrheal Medications: These can be toxic to cats. Always consult with your vet before giving your cat any medication.

Remember, these are only suggestions and should not replace veterinary advice. If your cat’s condition does not improve within a few days, or if they appear to be in distress, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Additional Tips for Managing Diarrhea in Cats 🐾

In addition to the above, here are some more tips that can help manage diarrhea in your cat:

• Hydration Check: It’s important to check if your cat is dehydrated. You can do this by doing a skin tent test, where you pinch the skin between the shoulder blades and see how quickly it returns to its normal position. If it bounces back right away, your cat is likely well-hydrated. You can also check their gums - they should be moist and a healthy pink color.

• Diatomaceous Earth: This is a natural product that can help bind to whatever is causing the upset in your cat’s stomach, preventing it from being absorbed and causing inflammation. It can also help absorb some of the excess fluid in the intestinal tract. Make sure to use food-grade diatomaceous earth and mix it with water before giving it to your cat.

• Tryptophan: This is an amino acid found in high concentrations in meat. Some studies have shown that supplementing with tryptophan can help decrease the immune response and lower the number of inflammatory cells within the intestinal tract, potentially helping to manage conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Remember, these tips should be used in conjunction with veterinary advice and should not replace a visit to the vet if your cat is unwell.

Conclusion 🐾

Dealing with chronic diarrhea in your cat can be challenging, but with patience, understanding, and the right treatment, it can be managed.

Remember, the key is to work closely with your vet, follow their advice, and be patient with your furry friend. After all, they’re counting on you to help them feel better.

If you’re interested in learning more about cat health, check out our other articles on pawsadviser.com, such as why my cat has watery eyes and do i need to visit a vet or what shots are needed for cats everything you need to know about cat vaccines.