Too much wet food can cause diarrhea in cats. Their digestive systems can be sensitive to changes in diet or overindulgence, leading to gastrointestinal upset. It’s essential to balance their diet and introduce any new food gradually.
It is important to note that wet food doesn’t cause diarrhea if fed in controlled portions. Overfeeding can not only cause diarrhea but can also lead to obesity and other health-related problems. You may be surprised to know that filler in dry food can also give diarrhea to your feline buddies.
Causes of Diarrhea in Cats
Dietary Indiscretion
Cats are curious and might eat something they shouldn’t, such as spoiled food, toxic plants, or indigestible objects. This can disrupt the normal bacterial flora in their intestines or cause a blockage, leading to diarrhea. A cat’s digestive system is designed for a primarily carnivorous diet, so any deviation can cause issues.
Food Intolerances/Allergies
Some cats may develop sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients found in their food, such as certain proteins, dairy, or grains. This immune response can lead to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in diarrhea. Identifying and removing the offending ingredient from the diet is essential for recovery.
Infections
Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause diarrhea in cats. Common culprits include Salmonella, E. coli, feline panleukopenia virus, and parasites like Giardia. These infections disrupt the normal function of the digestive system and can lead to a loss of nutrients and dehydration if not treated promptly.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD is a chronic condition that can cause vomiting, weight loss, and persistent diarrhea in cats. It is characterized by an abnormal immune response that causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The exact cause of IBD is not well understood, but managing the diet and using medications can help control symptoms.
Intestinal Cancer
Lymphoma or other types of cancer can affect a cat’s intestines. These can interfere with the absorption of nutrients and lead to chronic diarrhea. Such conditions are more serious and require veterinary intervention for diagnosis and treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, or palliative care.
Hyperthyroidism
This common endocrine disorder in older cats can cause diarrhea, along with symptoms like weight loss, increased appetite, and hyperactivity. It occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, speeding up metabolism and gastrointestinal motility, which can disrupt normal digestive processes.
Medications and Toxins
Certain medications, such as antibiotics, can disrupt the intestinal flora, leading to diarrhea. Also, accidental ingestion of toxins, including household plants or chemicals, can irritate the digestive tract or cause systemic toxicity, resulting in gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea.
Symptoms of Diarrhea in Cats
- Loose or watery stools
- Increased frequency of defecation
- Straining to defecate
- Blood or mucus in stool
- Foul-smelling feces
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Dehydration
Home Treatment of Diarrhea in Cats
Dietary Management
Initially, withhold food for up to 24 hours (but not water; hydration must be maintained) to give the cat’s gastrointestinal tract a rest. After this, offer a bland diet composed of boiled chicken (without skin and bones) and rice in small, frequent meals. Gradually reintroduce their regular diet over a few days.
Hydration
Ensure your cat has constant access to clean water to prevent dehydration. Cats with diarrhea may not drink enough, so you might need to encourage them to drink more or give them fluids through other means, such as flavoring the water with chicken broth.
Probiotics
Offering probiotics specifically designed for cats can help restore the natural balance of flora in the gastrointestinal tract, which can be beneficial for digestive health.
Limit Stress
Stress can contribute to gastrointestinal upset. Provide a quiet, safe space for your cat, and try to minimize changes in routine that could increase anxiety.
Avoid Sudden Dietary Changes
Sudden changes in diet can upset a cat’s stomach. When switching foods, do so gradually over several days by mixing the new food with the old.
Observe Litter Box Habits
Monitor your cat’s stool consistency and frequency. This information can be valuable to your vet if the diarrhea doesn’t resolve quickly.
Remove Access to Toxins
Ensure that your cat doesn’t have access to potentially toxic substances, including certain plants, foods, or chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does wet food cause diarrhea in kittens?
Wet food can cause diarrhea in kittens if they eat too much, if they’re not used to it, or if the food is spoiled. Kittens have delicate digestive systems, so new food should be introduced gradually.
Can dry food cause diarrhea in cats?
Dry food can cause diarrhea if it is of poor quality, contains allergens or irritants to the cat, or if the cat has a sensitivity to an ingredient in the food. Overeating dry food can also upset a cat’s stomach.
Can grain-free cat food cause diarrhea?
Grain-free cat food can cause diarrhea if the cat is not accustomed to it or contains alternative ingredients it cannot tolerate well, such as certain proteins, legumes, or fats.
Can wet food lead to soft stools?
Wet food can sometimes lead to softer stools due to its higher moisture content and different fiber content compared to dry food. This isn’t necessarily problematic unless the stool is too loose or watery.
What to feed a kitten with diarrhea?
Feed a kitten with diarrhea a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice, or a specialized gastrointestinal diet recommended by a veterinarian. Small, frequent meals can help ease their digestive system.
When should I see a vet if my cat is suffering from diarrhea?
See a vet if diarrhea persists for more than 24-48 hours or immediately if it’s accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, blood in stool, decreased appetite, or signs of dehydration.
Can changing cat food cause diarrhea?
Yes, changing cat food can cause diarrhea if the transition is too abrupt. A cat’s digestive system needs time to adapt, so it’s best to gradually mix the new food with the old over several days.