Common Digestive Issue in Cats: Symptoms, Causes & Solutions

Last Updated 13 October 2024

Cats, like humans, can experience a range of digestive issues that affect their overall health and wellbeing. As a cat owner, it's crucial to be aware of the common digestive problems that can afflict your feline friend, understand their causes, and know how to address them effectively. This article explores five prevalent digestive issues in cats, detailing their symptoms, causes, and potential solutions.

Vomiting and Diarrhoea: The Most Common Culprits

Vomiting and diarrhoea are perhaps the most frequent digestive issues encountered in cats. These symptoms can be caused by various factors, including dietary indiscretion, food allergies, infections, or more serious underlying health conditions.

Symptoms

Here are some of the signs and symptoms:

• Frequent vomiting (more than once or twice a day)

• Loose, watery stools

• Loss of appetite

• Lethargy

• Dehydration

Causes

Here are the main causes:

• Dietary changes or food intolerances

• Viral or bacterial infections

• Parasitic infestations

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Stress

Solutions

Here is the recommended treatment and solution:

• Withhold food for 12-24 hours to rest the digestive system

• Gradually reintroduce a bland, easily digestible diet

• Provide plenty of fresh water to prevent dehydration

• Consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen

Constipation: When Things Get Stuck

Constipation is another common digestive issue in cats, particularly in older felines or those with certain health conditions. It occurs when a cat has difficulty passing stools or experiences infrequent bowel movements.

Symptoms

Here are some of the signs and symptoms:

• Straining in the litter box

• Small, dry, hard stools

• Decreased appetite

• Vomiting

• Abdominal discomfort

Causes

Here are the main causes:

• Dehydration

• Low-fibre diet

• Lack of exercise

• Hairballs

• Underlying health issues (e.g., kidney disease)

Solutions

Here is the recommended treatment and solution:

• Increase water intake by providing fresh water sources or switching to wet food

• Add fibre to the diet through specialised cat foods or supplements

• Encourage exercise and playtime

• Groom long-haired cats regularly to reduce hairball formation

• Consult a veterinarian for persistent cases

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Chronic Concern

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a group of chronic gastrointestinal disorders characterised by the inflammation of the digestive tract. It can be challenging to diagnose and manage, often requiring long-term treatment.

Symptoms

Here are some of the signs and symptoms:

• Chronic vomiting and/or diarrhoea

• Weight loss

• Poor appetite

• Lethargy

• Blood or mucus in stools

Causes

Here are the main causes:

• Immune system dysfunction

• Food allergies or intolerances

• Bacterial overgrowth

• Genetic predisposition

• Environmental factors

Solutions

Here is the recommended treatment and solution:

• Dietary management with hypoallergenic or novel protein diets

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Immunosuppressive drugs in severe cases

• Regular monitoring and follow-ups with a veterinarian

• Stress reduction techniques

Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the Pancreas

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, an organ crucial for digestion and blood sugar regulation. While less common than some other digestive issues, it can be severe and requires prompt veterinary attention.

Symptoms

Here are some of the signs and symptoms:

• Severe abdominal pain

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting

• Lethargy

• Fever

Causes

Here are the main causes:

• High-fat diets

• Obesity

• Trauma

• Certain medications

• Concurrent diseases (e.g., diabetes)

Solutions

Here is the recommended treatment and solution:

• Hospitalisation for severe cases

• Fluid therapy to prevent dehydration

• Pain management

• Dietary changes to low-fat, easily digestible foods

• Long-term management of underlying conditions

Hairballs: A Hairy Situation

While not strictly a digestive issue, hairballs are a common problem related to a cat's grooming habits and can cause digestive discomfort.

Symptoms

Here are some of the signs and symptoms:

• Frequent retching or gagging

• Vomiting up tube-shaped masses of hair

• Loss of appetite

• Constipation

• Lethargy

Causes

Here are the main causes:

• Excessive grooming

• Long-haired breeds more prone

• Seasonal shedding

• Skin conditions leading to overgrooming

Solutions

Here is the recommended treatment and solution:

• Regular grooming to remove loose hair

• Specialised 'hairball control' cat foods

• Hairball remedies or lubricants

• Increased fibre in the diet

• Address any underlying skin conditions

Conclusion

Understanding common digestive issues in cats is crucial for maintaining your feline friend's health and happiness. While many of these problems can be managed at home with dietary changes and increased attention to your cat's habits, it's essential to consult a veterinarian for persistent or severe symptoms.

Remember, early intervention can prevent minor digestive issues from developing into more serious health concerns. By staying vigilant and proactive in your cat's digestive health, you can ensure a long, comfortable life for your beloved pet.

Sources

Five Common Cat Digestive Problems.

Cat Digestive Problems: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment.

Cat Digestive Problems: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment.

Digestive problems in cats.