Diarrhea In Cats: Causes And Symptoms
Diarrhea in cats and other animals manifests itself in liquid or semi-liquid stool accompanied by blood. In today’s article we want to tell you what causes this disease and what symptoms you can use to recognize it.
It can be difficult to detect diarrhea in cats
The most common diseases affecting cats include diarrhea and gastrointestinal disorders. However, depending on your kitty’s lifestyle, you may not notice much of his digestive problems.
Most cats poop once a day. If your pet has normal bowel movements, the odor shouldn’t be too strong. Also, the consistency allows you to lift the droppings easily.
However, it is not easy to see blood in your cat’s stool. If the blood is coming from the lower digestive tract, especially the colon or rectal region, then it is likely that it will look like fresh blood.
But how can you notice Often times, you can see red or pink drops or spots on the sides of the litter box and on the top of the droppings.
If the bleeding is coming from the upper intestinal tract, especially the small intestine, then the blood is black or dark brown. This change is because the blood has already been partially digested by enzymes released in the small intestine. This blood then often shows up as dark spots or speckles.
However, you should know that both constipation and diarrhea can cause blood in a cat’s stool. Bright red blood with no diarrhea or firm, dry stools usually means the problem is closer to the rectum and anus.
The causes of diarrhea in cats
If we were to list all the causes of diarrhea in cats , the list would be very long. Therefore we would like to name some of the numerous triggers below:
- Parasites.
- Infections caused by viruses or bacteria.
- Abrupt change in diet.
- Stress: Stress, anxiety, or excitement can cause colitis in cats.
- Pre-existing inflammatory diseases.
- Metabolic diseases: Many other problems such as pancreatic, liver or even thyroid diseases can alter bowel motility or the gastrointestinal environment and cause bloody diarrhea.
- Drugs or toxins : Certain drugs (including some antibiotics) can also affect the intestinal tract. In addition, various toxins are harmful to the digestive system.
Diarrhea in cats: what should you do?
Because there are so many potential causes of diarrhea in cats, it’s important to see your vet regularly. Obviously, many of the causes of diarrhea need specific treatment. If the diarrhea is accompanied by blood, you should always seek advice from your veterinarian.
While your cat is under medical treatment, you should make sure they have a balanced fluid balance. It is very important that your pet does not suffer from dehydration or an abnormal electrolyte balance.
Associated symptoms
If your kitty expels a bit of soft excrement, but continues to be happy and playful and eat normally, then you should first wait for the next bowel movement. However, if you observe the following symptoms, you should pay attention :
- Loss of appetite.
- Lethargy or depression.
- Pain or discomfort.
What should you do if you find blood in your cat’s stool?
If your cat’s stool changes, you should inform the vet immediately. Also, be aware that loose stools in the morning during the night can cause diarrhea, leading to dehydration.
Red or black blood in the stool is always a cause for concern. Dark, digested blood can be a sign of serious illness, while red blood can have many different causes, from a harmless change in diet to cancer.
If you notice that your cat’s feces have changed, don’t hesitate to seek veterinary help. Don’t wait for the problem to go away on its own. You should therefore regularly check your cat’s litter box as a preventive measure so that you can react in good time.
