Some Causes of Diarrhea in Cats
Yesterday, I noticed that my cat Millie’s stool was a little loose, today it was diarrhea. She is eating, drinking and doesn’t appear to be sick but I have to keep a close eye on her. If this doesn’t improve over the next two day, I will take her to the vet for a checkup. WebMD and ASCAP has compiled a list of possible causes of diarrhea in cats.Diarrhea is characterized by frequent loose or liquid bowel movements. It can be caused by something as simple as a change in diet or a more serious illness or infection. Diarrhea may be sudden in onset and short in duration. It can also last for weeks to months or occur off and on. A single bout of diarrhea is generally not a cause for concern in cats-but if it persists for more than a day or two, it can lead to dehydration.
What Causes Diarrhea?
- Change in diet
- Dairy or other food intolerance
- Ingestion of spoiled food
- Allergic reaction
- Bacterial or viral infection
- Internal parasites, such as roundworms, coccidia and Giardia
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Kidney or liver disease
- Cancer or other tumors of the digestive tract
- Certain medications
- Hyperthyroidism
- Colitis
What Are the General Symptoms of Diarrhea?
Loose, frequent stools are the most common symptoms of diarrhea. Other signs include flatulence, the passage of blood in mucus or stool and straining to defecate. Lethargy, dehydration, fever, vomiting, decreased appetite, weight loss and an increased urgency to defecate may also accompany diarrhea.
If your cat’s diarrhea is accompanied by bloody or black stools, he could be experiencing internal bleeding of the stomach or small intestine and should be examined by a vet immediately.
Remember, your pets count.
Make your day! Turn on great music and great oldies. EDGEWATER GOLD RADIO~ The best variety of oldies from the 50s through the 80’s and great standards! Your place for oldies! Download the free EDGEWATER GOLD RADIO and take us along wherever you go! Listen from our website: Edgewatergoldradio.com