Dear VetBabble: Why is My Cat’s Diarrhea Not Stopping?
My cat has been having diarrhea for more than a week now. It’s really runny, brown and won’t stop, but he has been eating normally. What could be the cause, and how can I help my cat?
First of all, we’re sorry to hear that your cat is experiencing diarrhea. It’s not only uncomfortable for them, but it can be a concern for pet owners as well. In this friendly and informative article, we will cover the possible causes of your cat’s diarrhea, what to do in this situation, and when it’s time to worry.
Common Causes of Diarrhea in Pets
There are several potential reasons why your cat might have diarrhea. Some of the most common causes include dietary changes or indiscretions (such as eating something they shouldn’t), stress, bacterial overgrowth, parasites, and even organ disease. To understand more about why your cat might have diarrhea, it’s helpful to read this article on possible causes and solutions.
Since your cat’s diarrhea has continued beyond 24 hours, we recommend having him examined by a veterinarian. With prolonged diarrhea, there may be bacterial shifts in the gut that could make matters worse, regardless of the initial cause. It’s essential to bring in a sample of fresh stool so that the veterinarian can check for parasites and bacterial overgrowth.
Treating and Managing Your Cat’s Diarrhea at Home
In some cases, a bland diet can help alleviate diarrhea in pets and then allow for a slow, gradual introduction back to their normal food. A bland diet usually consists of 25% boiled white meat chicken and 75% boiled white rice. This is a temporary solution, and you should discuss this with your veterinarian.
If you think your cat might be constipated instead of having diarrhea, read this article on How Do I Help My Constipated Cat? to determine the right course of action.
In some cases, your veterinarian might prescribe medication such as metronidazole to help alleviate your cat’s symptoms. You can learn more about Metronidazole for Dogs and Cats in this informative article.
When to Worry and Seek Veterinary Attention for Your Cat’s Diarrhea
As a general rule, if your cat’s diarrhea has continued for more than 24 hours, you should consult your veterinarian. Additionally, if you notice any blood in your cat’s stool, dramatic weight loss, lethargy, or vomiting alongside the diarrhea, it’s time to worry and seek professional help. Our article on Diarrhea in Dogs: When to Worry may help provide additional information on when to seek treatment for your pet, although it is primarily focused on dogs, much of the advice is applicable to cats as well.
In summary, diarrhea in cats can have various causes, ranging from mild to severe. If your cat has diarrhea that lasts for more than 24 hours, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian to determine the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. We hope your cat starts feeling better quickly, and please feel free to reach out if you have any additional questions or concerns.
