Cat Diarrhea and Its Contributing Factors

Diarrhea is caused by a number of factors

Diarrhea is caused by a number of factors. The list includes, but is not limited to, a blockage in the stomach such as hairballs or any foreign object. Drugs and or any toxins, like poisons, Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, bacterial infections, viral infections, parasitic worms are also common factors. Kidney disease, liver disease, pancreatitis are also part of such reasons. However, one common cause is the cat's diet.

A sudden switch in the cat's regular food routine can be a factor as well as the allergy to certain foods or any intolerance. Cow milk and dairy products are usual causes why cats tend to have diarrhea since they are lactose intolerant.

An increased in volume, around two to three times the usual frequency in the cat and having no mucous is one sign that it is suffering from a small intestine diarrhea. While the cat having normal volume or a decreased in volume, having occasional mucous or blood in the feces, and an increase in the urgency and frequency may lead to the cat having a large intestine diarrhea. Other symptoms may include a loss of appetite in the feline, depression, dehydration and an increased fluid intake behavior due to an increased fluid loss.

Physical examination by a veterinarian and further observation can help determine the kind of diarrhea that the cat is suffering from. This includes fecal examination to know if the ailment is parasitic, bacterial or protozoal in origin. FIV or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus or FeLV commonly referred to as feline Leukemia Virus tests are also conducted. Chemical profile checks are also done to determine if the cat is also suffering from any liver, kidney and or any similar disease. Urinalysis, X-rays, Ultrasound and intestinal biopsy are also in the process in identifying the main cause.

Diarrhea treatment is dependent on the type of diarrhea that the cat is afflicted with. If it is an acute diarrhea and the cat appears to be fit and healthy, then reinforcing proper diet would be an advisable action plan. Water however should still be implemented. After this period, the cat can be fed but the first set of meals should be bland for the first few days. In addition, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance should be treated if needed.

Parasitic and or protozoal infection should also be checked. Bacterial infection medications should be implemented and a surgery if the cause is an obstruction. To sum it all up, there are various information that one needs to know to treat diarrhea but it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian first before taking any action.

Cat Diarrhea and Its Contributing Factors

By: Heidi St. James

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