Cat Diarrhoea is a common issue that pet owners encounter. While it’s usually not cause for panic, understanding the symptoms and potential causes is essential for your cat’s well-being. Let’s delve into what you need to know.

Symptoms of Cat Diarrhoea

• Loose or Liquid Bowel Movements: If you notice that your cat’s stool is unusually soft, watery, or downright liquid, it could be a sign of Diarrhoea.
• Increased Flatulence: Cats with Diarrhoea may pass gas more frequently than usual.
• Straining While Defecating: Difficulty or discomfort during bowel movements can indicate Diarrhoea.
• Blood or Mucus in Feces: Check your cat’s litter box for any unusual color or consistency.
• Dehydration: Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, so monitor your cat’s water intake closely.
• Decreased Appetite: Cats with Diarrhoea may lose interest in food.

Common Causes

• Dietary Changes: A sudden switch in diet can upset your cat’s stomach.
• Gut Parasites: Worms, giardia, cryptosporidium, and tritrichomonas are common culprits.
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can lead to Diarrhoea.
• Infections and Viruses: Bacterial infections (Salmonella, Campylobacter) and viruses (Feline Panleucopenia Virus, FeLV, FIP) can cause Diarrhoea.
• Toxins and Poisoning: Ingesting harmful substances can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Chronic inflammation of the gut.
• Other Conditions: Gut blockages, liver disease, kidney disease, and cancer can also contribute.

When to Contact Your Vet

• If your cat has mild Diarrhoea for less than 24 hours and seems otherwise fine, you can try settling them at home.
• However, contact your vet if:
  • The Diarrhoea persists beyond 24 hours.
  • Your cat worsens or develops additional symptoms (vomiting, lethargy, blood/mucus in stool).
  • You have an elderly cat or kitten with Diarrhoea (they’re more prone to dehydration).

Treatment

• Antibiotics are rarely necessary for cat Diarrhoea.
• Instead, your vet may recommend probiotics and soothing products like ‘kaolin’ to ease bowel discomfort.

Conclusion

Understanding cat Diarrhoea helps you provide timely care and ensures your feline friend stays healthy. If in doubt, always consult your veterinarian for personalized adv.ice.It’s crucial for cat owners to be aware of the symptoms and seek veterinary care when necessary. While some causes of Diarrhoea may be unavoidable, maintaining a consistent diet and regular vet check-ups can significantly contribute to your cat’s overall digestive health.

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