 Diarrhoea is a common - and often harmless - condition, but it can be the symptom of an underlying issue affecting your cat's digestive system. Dietary disruption is frequently the root of the problem, however, in prolonged bouts and ongoing cases, it could be the sign of a more serious medical condition. We’ll be exploring the causes of diarrhoea in cats, the symptoms, how it can be treated, and when you should visit your vet.
Diarrhoea In Cats Here’s everything you need to know about cat diarrhoea, from what causes it, symptoms, and treatment options. Causes Of Diarrhoea In Cats Diet is perhaps the most common cause of cat diarrhoea, particularly in cats that are sensitive to certain foods. Sudden changes in diet, introducing new foods too quickly, or sharing table scraps with your cat are just some of the ways that food can upset your cat’s stomach. Particularly with new foods, allergies or intolerances can be shown with diarrhoea, and so too can intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and coccidia. Both bacterial and viral infections cause diarrhoea as well, with salmonella and E. coli present in contaminated food or water, and feline viruses like panleukopenia and rotavirus also causing it. Particularly in house cats that are used to order and calm, emotional distress can manifest physically in cats through stress and anxiety. The introduction of a new pet in the house, a change in routine, or loud noises are just some of the triggers of stress-induced diarrhoea. Diarrhoea can also be a symptom of more serious health issues like liver or kidney disease, pancreatitis, or intestinal cancer. Symptoms Whilst identifying if your cat has diarrhoea can be straightforward, keeping an eye on the severity of the issue is important in case the issue becomes worse. Increased stool frequency and loose, watery stools are the most recognisable, but changes in stool colour, straining during elimination, and visible mucus or blood in the stool can be a signs of irritation or inflammation in the intestines. Diarrhoea can be accompanied by other signs like vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or weight loss, so if your pet experiences any of these additional symptoms, visiting your veterinarian is essential. Treating Cat Diarrhoea If your cat experiences a single bout of diarrhoea with no other concerning symptoms, patience and a gentle diet can be the best approach. Initial treatment can begin by switching to a bland diet like boiled chicken until the symptoms subside, but if they persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms, you should visit your vet. Your veterinarian will ask you about your cat's diet, recent activities, and any medications your cat might be taking - the more information you can provide, the better. They will then thoroughly examine your cat, checking for dehydration, fever, and abdominal pain, and depending on the severity and suspected cause, the vet might recommend stool tests, blood tests, or an ultrasound to get a clearer picture. Recommended treatment might just be to wait it out if the diet is diagnosed as the culprit, but if an infection or parasites are identified, medication may be prescribed. As dehydration is a major concern with diarrhoea - and particularly in severe cases - a course of action might be taken to address this. If your cat has diarrhoea, it can often be resolved with home remedies, but if the issue is persistent, it is best to check in with your veterinarian. At Ripponlea, we understand your love for your pet, which is why we offer the very best standard of care and treatment to ensure they remain healthy for many years to come. Schedule an appointment with us now to ensure the best quality of life for your pet! Comments are closed.
|
|
82 Glen Eira Road Ripponlea Vic 3185
|