One of the most common problems that your pet can have is gastrointestinal (GI) upset/diarrhea. Today, our Fountain Valley vets discuss diarrhea in cats and when to seek veterinary care.
Cats Having Diarrhea
Vomiting and diarrhea are common signs of inflamed, irritated stomach and intestines, or gastrointestinal upset.
As unpleasant as it is, vomiting is your pet's way of emptying its stomach of indigestible material to prevent it from getting further into its system.
Diarrhea often occurs when that indigestible material makes its way fully through your dog’s digestive system, anywhere along the intestinal tract.
Causes of Diarrhea in Cats
There are many possible causes for these conditions, including
- Viruses and parasites
- A reaction to eating something bad
- Cancer or organ problems (such as kidney failure)
Symptoms of Diarrhea in Cats
If your cat is experiencing diarrhea, other symptoms such as those listed below can help your vet make a diagnosis.
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy/depression
- Pain/discomfort
- Blood in the stool (either dark, blackish stool or visible, frank, red blood)
- Associated vomiting
- Or if your cat is more likely to be quickly compromised by ongoing diarrhea (i.e. very young, very old, or already battling some other medical problem)
What to Do if Your Cat Has Continuous Diarrhea
The most important thing to do is bring your cat to see a vet right away to determine the underlying causes. Treatment will be based on the severity of the issue.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.