Introduction

Diarrhoea in cats is a common issue that pet owners face. While occasional loose stools may not be a cause for concern, persistent or severe diarrhoea can indicate an underlying health problem. This article explores the causes, symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures for diarrhoea in cats.

Causes of Diarrhoea in Cats

There are several potential causes of diarrhoea in cats, including:

• Dietary Indiscretion – Sudden changes in diet, eating spoiled food, or consuming toxic substances.
• Food Intolerances and Allergies – Some cats may be sensitive to certain ingredients in their diet, such as dairy, grains, or artificial additives.
• Bacterial and Viral Infections – Pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and feline panleukopenia virus can cause diarrhoea.
• Parasites – Intestinal worms such as roundworms, hookworms, and protozoa like Giardia.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – A chronic condition causing persistent gastrointestinal issues.
• Medications and Antibiotics – Some drugs can disrupt gut bacteria and cause diarrhoea.
• Stress and Anxiety – Changes in environment, new pets, or travel can lead to stress-induced diarrhoea.
• Liver and Kidney Disease – Organ dysfunction can result in digestive problems.
• Hyperthyroidism – Overactive thyroid glands can cause an increase in metabolism and diarrhoea.
• Cancer and Tumours – Gastrointestinal cancers may lead to chronic diarrhoea.

Symptoms of Diarrhoea in Cats

The severity and duration of diarrhoea can vary. Some symptoms to watch for include:

• Frequent, loose, or watery stools
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums, skin tenting)
• Blood or mucus in the stool
• Weight loss
• Straining to defecate

When to See a Vet

While mild cases may resolve on their own, you should consult a veterinarian if:

• Diarrhoea lasts more than 24-48 hours
• There is blood in the stool
• Your cat shows signs of dehydration or weakness
• There is vomiting along with diarrhoea
• The condition recurs frequently

Treatment for Diarrhoea in Cats

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

• Dietary Management – Feeding a bland diet (boiled chicken and rice) or switching to a hypoallergenic diet.
• Hydration – Providing plenty of fresh water and, in severe cases, fluid therapy from a vet.
• Medications – Depending on the cause, your vet may prescribe anti-diarrhoeal drugs, probiotics, or antibiotics.
• Deworming – If parasites are the culprit, deworming medication will be required.
• Stress Reduction – Minimising stress through environmental enrichment and consistency.
• Managing Underlying Diseases – If conditions like hyperthyroidism or IBD are causing diarrhoea, treating those conditions is essential.

Preventing Diarrhoea in Cats

To reduce the risk of diarrhoea:

• Maintain a consistent, high-quality diet
• Introduce new foods gradually
• Keep your cat’s environment stress-free
• Regularly deworm your cat
• Keep food and water bowls clean
• Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date

Conclusion

Diarrhoea in cats can be caused by a range of factors, from minor dietary indiscretions to serious medical conditions. Monitoring your cat’s health, ensuring a balanced diet, and seeking veterinary care when necessary will help keep your feline companion healthy and happy.

FAQs

1. Can I give my cat over-the-counter diarrhoea medication?No, human medications can be toxic to cats. Always consult a veterinarian.

2. Should I withhold food if my cat has diarrhoea?No, but you should offer a bland diet instead of their usual food.

3. Can stress cause diarrhoea in cats?Yes, stress and anxiety can trigger gastrointestinal upset in cats.

4. How can I tell if my cat is dehydrated?Check for dry gums, sunken eyes, or skin tenting (lifting the skin and seeing how quickly it returns to normal).

5. When should I worry about my cat’s diarrhoea?If it lasts more than 48 hours, contains blood, or is accompanied by vomiting or lethargy, consult a vet.

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Citations:

• International Cat Care. "Diarrhoea in Cats." Accessed 2024.
• Australian Veterinary Association. "Common Feline Gastrointestinal Disorders." Accessed 2024.
• RSPCA Australia. "Cat Health and Nutrition." Accessed 2024.

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