What to do when your cat has diarrhoea?
Find out about the most common causes of diarrhoea in cats.
Many feline diseases can manifest with diarrhoea. Fortunately, most of the times when the faeces lose their normal consistency, they are short-lived and resolve on their own or just with a change in diet. However, diarrhoea can be a sign of a more complex illness.
Common causes of diarrhoea in cats
The most common causes of diarrhoea in cats are attributed to sudden changes in diet or any change in the feline’s daily routine that can cause stress.
The ingestion of ‘foreign bodies’ in the home can cause them to suffer from acute diarrhoea. These foreign bodies can be anything from ribbons to small balls.
Often the diarrhoea won’t last more than a day or two and won’t be accompanied by any other clinical signs.
If, however, your cat’s diarrhoea lasts for more than two days, is liquid, bloody or not, or is associated with a lack of appetite, prostration or vomiting, among other signs of general illness, you should seek help from a vet.
These more serious changes can be related to thyroid disease, pancreatic disease, severe inflammatory bowel conditions or even tumours, with intestinal lymphomas being among the most difficult to detect. Sometimes intestinal parasites can be present and be the cause of this diarrhoea.
If your cat has less consistent diarrhoea, the first thing to do is look out for other signs.
See if it is isolating itself or hiding more, if it has stopped reacting to what used to be a sure source of play.
Keep an eye on his vomiting and appetite
When it comes to explaining to the vet what your cat’s faeces and vomit look like, sometimes words aren’t enough. Take photographs, this can help with the diagnosis. If you have a baby cat, an elderly cat or a cat with another concomitant illness, talk to your vet as soon as more liquid diarrhoea appears. These groups are particularly susceptible to changes and can dehydrate more quickly..
If, however, despite the diarrhoea, he retains his appetite and normal attitude, try introducing a gentler diet to the gastrointestinal tract.
It’s especially important not to medicate your cat without contacting a veterinary surgeon.
Cats are very sensitive to some types of medication, which can worsen their condition.
See you soon!
Vet.Point – Oeiras Veterinary Clinic
Emergency 24h | 927896112 • 211918923 | geral@vetpoint-ivl.com
