As a cat parent, dealing with diarrhea in your feline friend can be both messy and distressing. Our veterinarians at Lincoln are here to help you understand the common causes of this condition in cats and when it requires serious attention.
Does your cat have diarrhea? It's crucial to find the cause and help them recover quickly. Let's explore common reasons for cat diarrhea and when you should contact a veterinarian.
Diarrhea in Cats
Cats may occasionally get mild diarrhea from eating table scraps or changing their food brand. But remember, there could be serious health issues causing your cat's discomfort too.
What causes diarrhea in pets?
Below are some of the most common reasons for cat diarrhea:
- Colitis
- Parasites
- Viral infection
- Stress or anxiety
- Intestinal cancer
- Change in diet or treats
- Eating garbage or spoiled food
- Ingesting toxins or poisons
- Liver or kidney disease
- Bacterial infections
- Pancreatitis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Medications such as antibiotics
- Ingestion of foreign objects such as toys and fabric
However, how do you know whether or not your cat's diarrhea will require a visit to your veterinarian? When is it serious enough to warrant medical attention?
When to contact your vet about diarrhea in cats?
Is your pet having diarrhea but acting normally? Don't worry too much. Just monitor their bowel movements. If your cat has frequent diarrhea (more than two episodes in a short time), it might indicate a problem, and in that case, it's best to contact your veterinarian for advice.
If your pet appears to be struggling to pass stool and is only passing small amounts of watery diarrhea, it could be a sign of a painful blockage caused by the ingestion of a foreign object, such as a toy. This is a serious concern and requires urgent veterinary attention. You should contact your vet immediately or go to the nearest emergency animal hospital for care.
Recurring diarrhea in pets can be worrisome and may indicate a more significant health problem. This is particularly concerning if your furry friend is very young, elderly, or has a weakened immune system. Some infections causing diarrhea can be severe, contagious, or even life-threatening. It's crucial to take prompt action and reach out to your veterinarian if your pet experiences repeated bouts of diarrhea.
Cats showing other symptoms in addition to diarrhea, should be seen by a vet as soon as possible. If your pet has any of the following symptoms, you should contact your vet right away to schedule an appointment:
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Blood in stool
- Unusual drooling
- Lack of Appetite
- Signs of dehydration (Sunken dry-looking eyes, dry nose, or dry, sticky gums)
If your cat is showing symptoms that are causing you concern, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your vet will let you know whether or not your cat's symptoms indicate that examination and treatment are necessary.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.