Diarrhea in Cats

Your cat's health is a cause for concern, and many felines have the most physical conditions that manifest as diarrhea. 

When it comes to defecation, consistency, color (white or gray) and frequency are factors that you should pay close attention to—even if it feels slightly awkward to bring up, your veterinarian wants to hear about your pet’s poop!

And if your cat has diarrhea, you should definitely take notice. Here’s what you need to know about diarrhea in cats.

How Can I Tell If My Cat Has Diarrhea?

There are a few signs that can indicate that your cat has diarrhea:

Changes in stool consistency: Diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery stool that may be more frequent than normal. It may also have a strong odor.

Straining or urgency: Your cat may seem to be in a hurry to get to the litter box and may strain to defecate.

Increased frequency: Your cat may need to go to the litter box more often than usual.

Accidents outside the litter box: If your cat can't make it to the litter box in time, it may have accidents around the house.

Lethargy or other signs of illness: If your cat is experiencing diarrhea due to an underlying illness or infection, it may also appear lethargic, lose its appetite, or have other symptoms.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to monitor your cat closely and contact your veterinarian if diarrhea persists for more than a day or two, if there is blood in the stool, or if your cat appears to be in pain or discomfort. Your veterinarian can help determine the underlying cause of diarrhea and recommend an appropriate course of treatment.

What Causes Diarrhea in Cats?

1. Bacterial Infections

Various bacterial infections can cause diarrhea in kittens, including bacteria that are usually present and out of control in the kitten's gut, as well as bacteria from the environment.

• Escherichia Coli (E. coli)

E. coli (also known as E. coli disease) is a bacterium found in the intestinal tract. E. coli multiplies when kittens feel stressed or sick. It can also be obtained from various food sources and the environment. Young kittens may be exposed to E. coli in a dirty environment. In kittens under 2 weeks of age, you may see a sudden onset of diarrhea as well as vomiting, lethargy, weakness, or septicemia. In older kittens, E. coli usually presents as sudden diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Kittens infected with E. coli can quickly become dehydrated and should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

• Salmonella

Salmonella infections are more likely to occur in cats and kittens that are stressed, in crowded environments, or on a raw food diet. Kittens with salmonella may develop bloody diarrhea with mucus, vomiting, loss of appetite, and fever. These kittens may also have difficulty passing stools and may look as if they have stomach pains.

• Clostridial

This is caused by stress, antibiotics, raw meat, or illness causing an overgrowth of Clostridium perfringens normally found in the intestine. It causes diarrhea with mucus and blood, and you will often see your kitten pooping hard. The infection may clear up within a week, or it may come on every fortnight.

• Yersinia Pestis

Kittens can become infected with Yersinia pestis after eating raw or undercooked meat. Affected kittens may have more frequent bowel movements and have difficulty passing stools.

• Campylobacter

Campylobacter is not a common cause of diarrhea in kittens, it tends to affect kittens under 6 months with other problems such as intestinal parasites or suppressed immune systems. It is sometimes seen in kittens that eat raw food. It may cause chronic diarrhea, ranging from watery to bloody, with or without mucus. Affected kittens will strain to defecate and may also lose their appetite or vomit occasionally. Campylobacter can be treated on an outpatient basis with antibiotics and supportive care, but if your kitten is very young or very sick, more aggressive treatment (intravenous fluids, antibiotics, gastrointestinal protectants, and a light diet) may be required.

Bacterial infections can be transmitted to cats in various ways, including contaminated food and water, exposure to infected animals, and poor hygiene practices. In some cases, cats may develop bacterial infections as a result of underlying medical conditions that compromise their immune system.

2. Viral Infections

Viral infections can also cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress in kittens. Many of these can be prevented by routine vaccination.

• Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV)

Commonly known as feline micro virus, this is a highly contagious virus that can cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress in kittens. It is common in kittens aged 2-4 months, but it can occur at any age. The virus is highly adaptable and can survive in the environment for many years. Symptoms usually include sudden diarrhea, vomiting, refusal to eat, and lethargy. Kittens with FPV quickly become dehydrated and require supportive care.

• Feline herpesvirus or feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR)

This can also cause diarrhea in kittens. Cats can contract this virus from other cats or from objects that have come into contact with the saliva or eye or nasal secretions of infected cats.

• Feline Cupriovirus (FCV)

This is another potential viral cause of diarrhea in kittens and it more commonly causes upper respiratory disease.

• Rotavirus

Cause diarrhea in adult cats and kittens and can be transmitted to humans, so be sure to wash your hands when handling kittens with diarrhea and clean up after them.

• Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)

Usually transmitted from kitten mothers or other cats to kittens, although symptoms may not appear for months or even years. It is spread through grooming and fighting. In rare cases, it can even be spread by sharing food and litter trays. In the early stages, most cats with FeLV do not show any signs, but as the disease progresses they may develop persistent diarrhea, which is usually caused by other types of infection (bacterial, fungal, or parasitic). It can also cause other problems in infected cats such as swollen lymph nodes, upper respiratory tract infections, inflammation of the gums and mouth, and susceptibility to certain cancers.

• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

Usually transmitted between cats through bites, but it can also be transmitted from mother to kittens around the time of birth. Similar to FeLV, FIV usually causes persistent diarrhea caused by bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections. It tends to cause more clinical signs in adult cats than in kittens.

• Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

A variety of clinical signs may be present. Sometimes, it can lead to stunting, reduced appetite, and chronic diarrhea in kittens.

3. Intestinal parasites

Intestinal parasites or worms are common in kittens. Kittens can be infected with worms even if they are kept indoors, or dewormed. Some of the more common parasites that affect kittens include:

• Roundworm

This looks like spaghetti and can be transmitted to kittens from eggs in the environment or while the kitten is still in the mother's womb. Roundworms may cause diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. Affected kittens may appear to have a full, bloated abdomen.

• Hookworms

Hookworms are relatively small worms that can cause diarrhea, black tarry stools, constipation, weight loss, loss of appetite, and even a dry cough. They can infect kittens before they are born and can also be transmitted to them from the environment.

• Tapeworms

Tapeworms usually appear as 'cucumber seeds' and infect kittens after eating infected fleas or small mammals, birds, amphibians, or reptiles. Most kittens infected with tapeworms do not show any signs of disease but may show some diarrhea, weight loss, and itching around the rectum.

• Whipworm

Whipworm is a small worm that can cause bloody diarrhea with mucus, weight loss, dehydration, and anemia. Whipworms in the environment can infect your cat and cause symptoms even before the eggs appear in their feces.

• Giardia Lamblia

Giardia lamblia is an intestinal parasite that can cause severe diarrhea in kittens. Diarrhea may be intermittent or chronic and may have a strong odor and a soft, greasy appearance. Giardia lamblia is usually found in water sources. Kittens from catteries, shelters, or other densely populated areas are more likely to be infected with Giardia lamblia.

• Trichomonas Foetus

Trichomonas fetus causes diarrhea in kittens and often causes symptoms similar to those of Giardia lamblia. Kittens with trichomoniasis may have chronic or intermittent diarrhea. Diarrhea may have a strong odor and a soft, greasy appearance, and the kitten's rectum may be red, painful, and swollen. Diarrhea improves with antibiotic treatment, but it is not uncommon for it to return after the antibiotics have been used up. Trichuris fetus is more common in kittens from densely populated areas (e.g. shelters or catteries).

• Coccidia

Coccidia can cause diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Diarrhea may be watery, with mucus or blood. It usually occurs at times of stress (weaning, moving to a new home, change of diet). Most bacteria of the genus Coccidioides that cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress in kittens are species-specific and only affect cats, but Cryptosporidium can be transmitted to other species, including humans.

• Toxoplasma Gondii

Toxoplasmosis can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite in kittens. Various other signs can be seen depending on how the kitten is infected with toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis can be transmitted from cats to humans, so it is important to maintain good hygiene practices when cleaning up kitten feces.

4. Dietary Changes

A sudden change in your cat's diet can upset their digestive system and cause diarrhea. This can happen if you switch your cat to a new type of food, or if they get into something they shouldn't eat.

5. Stress

Stressful situations such as moving to a new home, changes in routine, or introducing a new pet can cause digestive upset and diarrhea in cats.

6. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

IBD is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract and can lead to chronic diarrhea in cats.

7. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed and can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in cats.

8. Pica in Cats

Some kittens are attracted to string, ribbons, rubber bands, hair ties, plastic, and other non-food items. When kittens eat food that is difficult to digest, it can irritate their gut and cause vomiting and/or diarrhea. In some cases, these objects can also get stuck in the kitten's stomach or intestines, which can lead to vomiting and/or diarrhea.

Veterinary Diagnosis of Kitten Diarrhoea

• Fecal samples are collected and sent to a laboratory to test for intestinal parasites that are not easily identified by the eye.
• Blood tests and urine samples are run for special tests to look for evidence of viral and bacterial infection and to check for dehydration.
• The vet will check electrolytes, glucose levels, and protein levels.
• Other tests may include blood tests for parasite screening, stool, and rectal swab samples, DNA tests, bacterial cultures, radiographs (x-rays), ultrasound, and endoscopy.

How to Treat Diarrhea in Cats?

Kitten diarrhea is dangerous as it can quickly lead to dehydration. In mild cases of diarrhea where there is no obvious evidence of dehydration, your vet may recommend giving your kitten an oral electrolyte solution to keep her hydrated. If there is mild dehydration, fluids can be given subcutaneously (subcutaneous fluids). In cases of moderate to severe dehydration, hospitalization is required to receive intravenous fluids. Some other treatments include:

1. Antidiarrheal

2. Prescribed Diet

Your veterinarian may recommend switching your cat to a bland, easily digestible diet for a few days to help soothe their digestive system. This may include feeding boiled chicken and rice, or a prescription diet formulated specifically for cats with digestive issues.

Puainta® Cat Food for Sensitive Stomach

Suitable for Acute and chronic diarrhea Indigestion and poor adsorption Gastroenteritis and colitis Auxiliary adjustment for intestinal dysfunction

3. Medications

Depending on the underlying cause of your cat's diarrhea, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to address the condition. This may include antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, deworming medications to treat parasite infections, or anti-inflammatory medications to treat inflammatory bowel disease.

4. Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your cat's gut. Your veterinarian may recommend a probiotic supplement to help promote a healthy gut microbiome.

It is important to follow your veterinarian's recommendations for treating your cat's diarrhea and to complete the full course of any prescribed medications. With prompt and appropriate treatment, most cases of diarrhea in cats can be successfully managed and resolved.

Veterinary Recommended Medication

1. Neomycin Sulfate Acute Diarrhea Relief

Neomycin sulfate is an aminoglycoside antibiotic with good antibacterial activity against Enterobacteriaceae such as Staphylococcus.

2. Gastroenteritis Treatment Diarrhea Relief

The product has ingredients working synergistically to raise your cat’s gastrointestinal integrity, specifically to address cat diarrhea. It has been carefully formulated to meet the special needs of domesticated animals and is not only for occasional gastric distress, but for animals that are prone to infections, and need help maintaining the body’s normal inflammatory response. A destabilized gastrointestinal system results in diarrhea. Contributing factors of frequent diarrhea are bacterial infections, stress, contaminants, drug side effects, and genetics.

3. Puainta® Probiotic Powder

Available in powder form in a packet Safe for kittens and adult cats Does not contain artificial flavors, colors, or fillers. Contains Enterococcus faecium strain SF 68

Home Remedies for Kitten Diarrhoea

If your kitten is over 4 months old and your kitten has diarrhea but seems fine, try the following methods to control diarrhea:

• Provide a light diet, such as two portions of cooked white rice and one portion of cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast. It is usually best to eat smaller and more frequent meals when feeding a light diet.
• Add probiotics to the kitten's diet to promote a healthy digestive system.

How to Clean a Cat's Bum After Diarrhea?

If your cat has diarrhea, it may have difficulty cleaning itself properly after using the litter box. This can lead to a buildup of fecal matter around their anus, which can be uncomfortable and unsanitary. It is important to clean your cat's bum after diarrhea to prevent any irritation or infection.

Here are the steps to clean a cat's bum after diarrhea:

Prepare a warm, damp washcloth, or use unscented baby wipes. Make sure the cloth or wipe is not too hot and is gentle on your cat's sensitive skin.

Gently lift your cat's tail and examine its bum. You may notice some fecal matter or other debris around the anus.

Use the washcloth or wipe to gently clean the bum.

When to See a Vet

1. Kittens under 4 months of age have diarrhea
2. Kittens over 4 months old have frequent watery diarrhea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or other signs of discomfort, such as loss of appetite or lethargy
3. You suspect that your kitten has eaten something that should not be eaten (foreign body or potential toxin)
4. There is blood in the poop
5. Your kitten shows signs of dehydration (e.g. sticky gums, lethargy, and loss of skin elasticity, or when you gently pull the skin between the shoulder blades, it does not spring back into place).
6. Kittens over 4 months of age with diarrhea for more than 24 hours.

FAQs

What Causes My Cat Poops Blood?

Some bacteria such as Salmonella, Clostridium, and Campylobacter, as well as some intestinal parasites such as Coccidia, Trichuris fetus, Giardia, and Whipworm, may cause bright red blood in the feces. Blood in cat poo can also be caused by damage and inflammation in the large intestine and colon. Bleeding from the stomach and small intestine will usually result in black and tarry stools. Kittens with blood in their feces are at greater risk of developing more serious infections.

What Causes Yellow Diarrhea in Cats?

Yellow diarrhea in cats may indicate the presence of some kind of bacterial imbalance in the gut, or it may be caused by exposure to toxins or liver disease. If you see any of the following, please consult your veterinarian:

1. Yellow diarrhea in cats under 4 months of age
2. Yellow diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours in cats over 4 months of age
3. Yellow diarrhea and other signs of discomfort, such as vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy

Does Dewormer Cause Diarrhea in Cats?

Dewormers can sometimes cause diarrhea in cats, but it is not a common side effect. Some cats may experience mild digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, after receiving a dewormer. This is usually temporary and should resolve within a few days.

In rare cases, a cat may experience a more severe reaction to a dewormer, which can include severe diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If you suspect that your cat is having an adverse reaction to a dewormer, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Can Wet Food Cause Diarrhea in Cats?

Wet food can cause diarrhea in cats if it is not properly stored, or handled, or if the cat has a sensitive stomach or food allergies. Some cats are sensitive to certain ingredients in wet food, such as preservatives, grains, or proteins, which can cause digestive upset and diarrhea. Additionally, if wet food is left out for too long or not stored properly, it can become contaminated with bacteria, which can also cause diarrhea.

If you suspect that your cat's diarrhea is being caused by their wet food, try switching to a high-quality, limited-ingredient diet that is free from common allergens. Gradually introduce the new food to your cat over several days to minimize the risk of digestive upset. If your cat's diarrhea persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian. They can help determine the underlying cause of your cat's diarrhea and provide appropriate treatment.

Can Hairballs Cause Diarrhea in Cats?

If a cat is producing a large number of hairballs or having difficulty passing them, it can cause digestive upset, including diarrhea.

In addition, if a cat is repeatedly coughing up hairballs, it can irritate and inflame the digestive system, leading to diarrhea. This can also occur if a hairball becomes lodged in the intestines, causing a blockage that results in diarrhea and other symptoms.

Why is the Cat Poop Half Firm Half Soft?

If your cat's poop is half firm and half-soft, it may indicate a digestive issue or dietary problem. This is known as a "mushy stool" or "cow patty" consistency.

There are several possible causes of this type of stool consistency in cats, including:

Diet: Changes in diet or eating habits can cause changes in stool consistency. If your cat has recently switched to a new type of food or is eating something that doesn't agree with its digestive system, it can cause a half-firm, half-soft stool.

Parasites: Parasites such as roundworms or hookworms can cause diarrhea or other changes in stool consistency. If your cat has not been dewormed recently or is displaying other signs of parasite infection, such as weight loss or poor appetite, this could be a potential cause.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): IBD is a chronic condition that can cause inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and other symptoms. If your cat has been diagnosed with IBD, half-firm, half-soft stool may be a sign that their condition is not well-managed.

Pancreatic insufficiency: If your cat's pancreas is not producing enough digestive enzymes, it can lead to malabsorption of nutrients and changes in stool consistency.

Stress or anxiety: Cats can experience stress or anxiety that can affect their digestive system. If your cat is experiencing changes in their environment or routine, this could be a potential cause of a half-firm, half-soft stool.

If your cat is consistently producing half-firm, half-soft stool or is displaying other signs of digestive problems, it is important to consult with your veterinarian. They can help determine the underlying cause of your cat's symptoms and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate their discomfort and prevent future digestive problems.

Why is the White Cat Poop?

White cat poop can indicate a few different things, depending on the underlying cause. Here are some possibilities:

Bone meal in the diet: If your cat's food contains bone meal or other sources of calcium, this can cause their poop to appear white or chalky.

Bile duct obstruction: In some cases, white poop can indicate a blockage in the bile ducts, preventing bile from reaching the intestines and giving the stool its normal color. This can be a serious condition and requires veterinary attention.

Liver disease: If your cat's liver is not functioning properly, this can also cause white poop due to a lack of bile production.

Pancreatic insufficiency: Some cats may have a condition called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), which means their pancreas is not producing enough digestive enzymes. This can lead to undigested food in the stool, which may appear white.

Parasites: While less common, certain types of parasites can also cause white or pale-colored stool in cats.