Diarrhea is a very common problem in cats. In fact, it is the cause of 30% of visits to the vet. But what should we do when a cat has an upset stomach?
In today’s article, we explain the causes of diarrhea in cats, as well as the best treatments to cure it.
Why Does a Cat Have Diarrhea? The Most Common Causes
When a cat has diarrhea, it passes stool more frequently and in greater quantities, and it is softer than usual. In addition, these stools often have an unusual color and a particularly foul odor. But why does a cat get diarrhea?
The causes of diarrhea in cats can be very diverse. These are the most frequent:
- Toxic plants. One of the most common reasons for diarrhea in cats is ingesting a toxic plant. The combined symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea in cats are the usual signs of this type of poisoning.
- Dietary changes. A sudden change in the cat’s diet or the ingestion of an unusual food can cause an imbalance in the intestinal flora and alter nutrient absorption, leading to softer stools.
- Stressful situations. Stressful events, such as moving house or even a trip to the vet, can also trigger diarrhea in cats.
- Other health problems. In some cases, diarrhea may be a symptom of more serious conditions, such as digestive tract infections, liver disease, kidney issues, or a weakened immune system. That’s why it is essential to see the vet as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis and take appropriate action.
Types of Diarrhea in Cats Based on Stool Color
When determining the cause of diarrhea in your cat, analyzing the color of the stools can be very helpful. Here are the different types of diarrhea in cats according to stool color:
- Yellow or greenish stools occur when the intestinal transit is too fast and the stool does not have enough time to acquire the proper consistency and color.
- Black stools are the result of internal bleeding in the upper digestive tract. Dried blood is what darkens the stool. If the bleeding occurs in the colon (lower tract), it can make the stool appear red.
- Cream or beige stools indicate a lack of bile, which is a common sign of liver problems.
- Gray stools are often linked to complications in the digestive process.
Treatment for Diarrhea in Cats
To ease the symptoms of diarrhea in cats, there are some treatments you can follow—always under veterinary supervision:
- Bland homemade diet. A simple bland diet based on boiled rice and cooked chicken (skinless and boneless) will help your cat recover from occasional diarrhea. Make sure this bland diet is the only food your cat eats for the two or three days of the treatment.
- Food for cats with digestive problems. Some cats may refuse rice due to the small grain size. In that case, the best option is to use wet food specially formulated for cats with gastrointestinal problems. In this regard, we recommend the range of products from veterinary food for cats with intestinal problems by TrovetPlus. These are scientifically formulated foods and supplements designed to help treat the most common digestive disorders in cats.
- Increase hydration. When a cat has diarrhea, it loses a lot of fluids through its stool. Therefore, it is necessary to compensate for this dehydration by increasing water intake. There are also isotonic drinks available that help replenish lost electrolytes.
If your cat has diarrhea for several days or if you find blood or foam in its stools, take it to the vet immediately. Diarrhea in kittens or senior cats can be very dangerous, especially if it persists and becomes chronic. For this reason, it is crucial that your cat receives proper medical treatment as soon as possible.
