Why Does My Cat Have Diarrhea?

When your cat has diarrhea, it is not only unpleasant for you and your kitty, but it can often raise immediate concern. There are many reasons why a cat might experience diarrhea and can range from a sudden change in food to more serious medical conditions that need a veterinarian’s attention. While a single loose stool may not be alarming, frequent or ongoing diarrhea is something every cat parent should watch carefully.

What Are The Common Causes of Diarrhea?

There are many reasons why cats develop diarrhea, and not all of them are cause for panic. One of the most frequent triggers is a sudden change in diet. Cats are sensitive to new food, and if you switch brands or flavors too quickly, their digestive system may become upset. Food intolerances and allergies are another possibility, as some cats cannot properly process certain proteins, fillers, or grains.

If your cat gets into the garbage, he or she might swallow food wrappers, paper, plastic or other items that can act as a foreign object on their intestinal tract. They might also eat spoiled and contaminated food that upsets their stomach, and they therefore have diarrhea.

Stress or anxiety can also be a major factor when your cat has diarrhea. If you have moved into a new home, brought home another pet, or even a subtle shift in your routine may be enough to disrupt your cat’s stomach. This could cause your cat to poop more frequently and/or have diarrhea.

Parasites are another common cause of diarrhea, particularly in kittens or outdoor cats. Roundworms, giardia, and coccidia can all lead to diarrhea that does not go away on its own. Infections, whether bacterial or viral, may also be to blame. In these cases, your cat may need veterinary testing to determine the source and begin treatment.

When Diarrhea Could Mean Something More Serious

Sometimes diarrhea is more than just a passing issue. Chronic or severe cases may indicate underlying health problems. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, or hyperthyroidism can all cause long-term digestive trouble. Kidney disease, liver disease, or even certain types of cancer affecting the digestive tract may also be contributing factors.

If your cat’s diarrhea is ongoing, or if it appears alongside other concerning symptoms like vomiting, weight loss, or low energy, it is important to take the situation seriously and schedule a veterinary appointment.

When to Call the Vet for Cat Diarrhea

While a few bouts of diarrhea might not be a cause for concern, however ongoing or severe diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration. You should contact your vet if you notice blood in your cat’s stool, if the stool looks black or tarry, or if vomiting occurs alongside the diarrhea.

If your cat is refusing food or water, or showing signs of dehydration such as dry gums, sunken eyes, or unusual lethargy, these are also clear warning signs that the diarrhea is more serious. Cats, especially kittens and seniors, are more vulnerable to dehydration and can deteriorate quickly, so seeking veterinary advice early is always the safest option.

How to Help Your Cat at Home

For mild cases of diarrhea, there are a few things you can do at home to support your cat’s recovery. Make sure that your cat has access to plenty of fresh water as it is essential to prevent dehydration.

Some cats may benefit from temporarily eating a bland diet such as plain boiled chicken and rice, which is easier on the digestive system. Probiotics designed specifically for cats may also help restore balance in the gut.

If the diarrhea lasts more than a couple of days or becomes worse, a veterinary visit is the best course of action. Or if your cat has the opposite issue and is vomiting frequently, it’s time to take your cat to the vet.

Preventing Future Digestive Issues

While you cannot always prevent your kitty’s upset stomach, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of future problems. Transitioning your cat to new food gradually over a week allows the digestive system time to adjust. Keeping human foods and potential toxins out of reach will also protect your cat against accidental ingestion. Regular veterinary checkups and deworming treatments are important for your cat’s overall health and can help prevent parasite-related diarrhea.

Managing stress in your cat’s environment is equally important. Providing safe spaces, maintaining consistent routines, and offering interactive play can help reduce anxiety that might otherwise contribute to digestive upset.

Final Thoughts

Diarrhea in cats is a common issue, and the causes can be as simple as stress or diet changes, or as complex as an underlying medical condition. Paying attention to how long the diarrhea lasts, whether other symptoms appear, and how your cat is acting overall will help you decide when it’s time to call the vet. With the right care and a little attention, most cats recover quickly and return to their usual happy, healthy selves.