Feline Diarrhea

Diarrhea refers to the passage of watery or loose stool, and frequent bowel movement. Like humans, cats are also prone to develop this condition, due to varied reasons. Feline diarrhea is associated with many diseases or health conditions, some of which are minor, while others can be major cat health problems. However, diarrhea is not considered as a disease itself. Rather, it is regarded as an important symptom or sign of some other health problems.

What Causes Diarrhea in Cats?
Minor diarrhea in your feline friends can be caused by even a slight change in the diet, intestinal parasite, ingestion of certain drugs and blockage of the gastrointestinal tract due to hair ball formation. On the other hand, a major case can be associated with bacterial or viral infection of the gastrointestinal tract, fungal infection, food intolerance and food allergies, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, hyperthyroidism, pancreatitis, neoplasia, liver diseases, kidney problems and ingestion of substances like, toxic heavy metals, rat poison, household cleaning products and certain poisonous plants.

Diarrhea Symptoms in Cats
If diarrhea is not very severe in nature, then passage of watery or loose stool can be the only symptom of this condition. A mild case of diarrhea is usually, not accompanied by any other symptom. However, severe diarrhea can be accompanied by symptoms like:

• Vomiting
• Dehydration
• Bloody diarrhea
• Pain in the abdomen
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Fever

Diagnosis and Treatment for Diarrhea in Cats
The exact course of diarrhea treatment is determined by the underlying causes, or health conditions. To determine the underlying causes, a veterinarian undertakes several tests like, physical examination, examination of the stool sample of the cat, and X-ray of the gastrointestinal tract. If diarrhea is accompanied by other above mentioned symptoms, then veterinarians also perform blood test, stool culture, specific tests for feline leukemia virus and immunodeficiency virus, biopsy of the intestinal tract and radiography.

On the basis of the results of these diagnostic tests, appropriate medications are prescribed for treating diarrhea in cats. As for example, antibiotics would be prescribed for bacterial infections, while for viral infection, anti-viral medications would be required. Similarly, appropriate de-worming medications are given for intestinal worms. On the other hand, if diarrhea is caused by the blockage of the intestinal tract, then surgery can be required for diarrhea treatment. In the meantime, supportive therapy like, fluid replacement and electrolyte replacement therapy are carried out, to help the cat recover fast.

Diarrhea Home Remedies
Along with medical treatment, certain home remedies can also help to ensure fast recovery from diarrhea. However, these home remedies should be used, only after consultation with the veterinarian. Generally, a bland diet is suggested for a few days for the affected cat. If your veterinarian permits, you can add pumpkin to the diarrhea diet. Pumpkin is very rich in many essential vitamins, and dietary fiber. It can improve digestion, and provide relief in diarrhea. Another noteworthy home remedy is slippery elm. This herb can soothe the digestive tract of the cat, and is widely available as capsules in many health stores. To improve the digestive health of your cat, you can also give probiotic supplements and plain yogurt, with the approval of your veterinarian. Probiotics and yogurt can help to increase the population of beneficial bacteria in the bowel or intestine, to boost the digestive health.

However, do not forget to keep your cat well hydrated, so that it does not become dehydrated due to diarrhea. You can also give electrolyte solution to restore the electrolyte balance in the body. To prevent occurrence of diarrhea in your beloved pet in the future, try to avoid frequent and sudden changes in the diet of your cat. Be sure to report immediately to the veterinarian, if your cat experiences diarrhea after consuming any food. Also remember that, cat can get stressed quite easily, even due to a slight change in the environment, and it can also lead to diarrhea. In such a situation, it is very essential to help the cat relax and rest, with adequate care and attention. However, if diarrhea seems to be a bit serious, then evaluate the condition at the earliest, by consulting your veterinarian.