Diarrhoea in Cats: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Diarrhoea in cats can be a troubling experience for both you and your pet. While occasional loose stools may resolve on their own, frequent or severe diarrhoea can indicate an underlying health issue that requires immediate attention. Whether the condition is acute or chronic, it’s essential to understand what causes diarrhoea in cats, how to diagnose the problem, and what treatment options are available. This blog will guide you through the process of identifying and addressing cat diarrhoea effectively.

Why Visit the Veterinarian for Cat Diarrhoea?

If your cat is experiencing diarrhoea, it’s important to assess the situation promptly. In some cases, diarrhoea may resolve on its own, but when it persists, it can lead to dehydration and other complications. Visiting a veterinarian ensures that your cat receives the appropriate care and diagnosis, preventing the problem from worsening. Consulting the best cat vet in Delhi can provide the necessary expertise and guidance to address the issue effectively.

Prolonged diarrhoea that lasts more than a day or two should never be ignored. Cats with diarrhoea that also exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, or blood in the stool require immediate medical attention. A veterinarian can assess whether the diarrhoea is linked to a simple dietary issue, an infection, or a more serious health condition. Timely intervention helps prevent dehydration and allows your vet to recommend the right treatment.

What is Chronic vs. Acute Diarrhoea in Cats?

One key distinction your vet will help you make is whether your cat’s diarrhoea is acute or chronic. Understanding the difference between the two can help you gauge the severity of the problem.

• Acute Diarrhoea: This form of diarrhoea appears suddenly and is usually short-lived, lasting a few hours to a couple of days. It is often caused by mild issues such as dietary changes, stress, or minor infections. Acute diarrhoea typically resolves with basic care but should still be monitored closely to ensure it doesn’t escalate.
• Chronic Diarrhoea: Diarrhoea that persists for two weeks or longer is considered chronic and often indicates a more serious underlying issue. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), food allergies, or chronic infections can lead to ongoing diarrhoea, requiring thorough diagnostic testing and a long-term management plan.

While acute diarrhoea may resolve on its own, chronic diarrhoea needs a deeper investigation and a comprehensive approach to treatment.

What Causes Diarrhoea in Cats?

There are many potential causes of diarrhoea in cats, ranging from diet to infections to stress. Some common causes include:

• Dietary Changes: Sudden changes in your cat’s diet, consuming spoiled food, or overeating can disrupt their digestive system and lead to diarrhoea. Cats can also develop sensitivities to certain ingredients in their food, such as dairy or grains.
• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause diarrhoea in cats. Parasites like roundworms or Giardia are common culprits, and bacterial infections such as Salmonella can also lead to loose stools.
• Food Allergies: Some cats develop food intolerances or allergies to specific proteins or ingredients, leading to chronic digestive issues and diarrhoea.
• Stress: Just like humans, cats can experience gastrointestinal upset due to stress. Moving to a new home, introducing a new pet, or even changes in their daily routine can trigger diarrhoea.
• Toxic Ingestion: Cats are curious creatures, and ingesting toxic plants, chemicals, or human medications can result in severe diarrhoea. It’s important to keep harmful substances out of reach to prevent accidental poisoning.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): IBD is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to persistent diarrhoea. It requires long-term management, including dietary adjustments and medication.
• Organ Diseases: Liver or kidney disease can also manifest as diarrhoea, particularly in older cats. If your cat is also vomiting, drinking more water than usual, or acting lethargic, these symptoms may indicate a more systemic issue.

How are the Causes of Diarrhoea in Cats Diagnosed?

When you bring your cat to the vet for diarrhoea, the veterinarian will perform a full physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause. One of the most common diagnostic tools is a fecal examination, which can detect parasites, bacterial infections, or signs of inflammation. Blood tests are also useful in evaluating your cat’s overall health and identifying potential organ dysfunction. Visiting the best cat clinic in Delhi ensures that your pet receives comprehensive care and precise diagnosis.

In more complex cases, your vet may recommend X-rays or ultrasounds to check for blockages, tumors, or abnormalities in the digestive tract. In some situations, an endoscopy or biopsy might be necessary to obtain a more precise diagnosis, especially if chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are suspected.

These tests allow your vet to identify the root cause of the diarrhoea and develop a tailored treatment plan to address it effectively.

Treatment for Diarrhoea in Cats

The treatment your cat receives will depend on the cause of the diarrhoea. Some common treatments include:

• Dietary Adjustments: If food intolerance or allergies are suspected, your vet may recommend switching to a special diet, such as a hypoallergenic or easily digestible diet. In many cases, temporary feeding of bland foods like boiled chicken and rice can help soothe an upset stomach.
• Medications: Your vet may prescribe medications to treat the specific cause of diarrhoea. For example, if parasites are present, anti-parasitic medications will be administered. Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is the cause. Anti-inflammatory drugs may also be used in cases of IBD.
• Probiotics: Probiotics can help restore healthy gut bacteria, which is especially helpful after infections or antibiotic treatments. This can improve digestion and help prevent future episodes of diarrhoea.
• Fluid Therapy: For cats suffering from dehydration due to severe diarrhoea, fluid therapy may be necessary to restore hydration and electrolyte balance. This is often administered intravenously in more serious cases.
• Stress Management: If stress is the cause of your cat’s diarrhoea, your vet may recommend ways to reduce anxiety, such as providing a stable environment, adding interactive toys, or using calming pheromone sprays.

My Cat Has Diarrhoea. What Should I Do?

If your cat has diarrhoea, there are a few steps you can take at home:

1. Monitor the Duration: If your cat’s diarrhoea lasts more than 24 to 48 hours, it’s time to consult a vet. Even short-term diarrhoea should be watched closely, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting or lethargy.
2. Ensure Hydration: Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, so make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water available at all times. You may need to encourage them to drink more if they’re feeling unwell.
3. Adjust Diet: If your cat’s diarrhoea is mild, consider feeding them a bland diet for a short period to help settle their stomach. Boiled chicken or turkey mixed with plain rice is often recommended, but consult your vet before making any changes to their regular diet.
4. Consult a Vet: If your cat’s diarrhoea persists or they exhibit other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to see a vet for a thorough diagnosis and treatment plan.

Conclusion

Diarrhoea in cats can stem from various causes, ranging from simple dietary changes to serious medical conditions. While mild cases may resolve on their own, persistent or severe diarrhoea should be addressed by a veterinarian to prevent complications. Knowing the difference between acute and chronic diarrhoea, along with seeking timely veterinary care, can help ensure your cat receives the treatment they need to stay healthy and comfortable. If your cat is experiencing diarrhoea, don’t hesitate to consult with your vet to determine the best course of action for your feline friend’s well-being.