What Home Remedy Can I Give My Cat for Diarrhea? 🐱

 

 

 Table of Contents

 

- Introduction

- Comprehending Feline Diarrhea

- Determining The Cause of Cat Diarrhea

  - Dietary Indiscretions

  - Food Sensitivities 

  - Parasitic Infections

  - Viral Infections

  - Bacterial Infections 

  - Inflammatory Bowel Disease

  - Medication Side Effects

  - Stress and Anxiety 

- Signs of Dehydration – When to Visit the Vet

  - Bloody Stool

  - Lethargy and Loss of Appetite

  - Dehydration

  - Fever

  - Difficulty Defecating

  - Weight Loss

  - Diarrhea Over 48 Hours

- At-Home Treatments for Mild Cat Diarrhea

  - Diet Modifications

  - Supplemental Foods

  - Herbs and Natural Remedies

  - Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes 

  - Hydration Methods

  - Intermittent Fasting 

- Preventing and Managing Chronic Diarrhea

  - Ongoing Veterinary Care

  - Identifying Triggers

  - Environmental Enrichment

  - Litter Box Hygiene

- Creating a Cat-Friendly Home Environment

  - Offer Ample Resources

  - Provide Vertical Space  

  - Incorporate Hiding Places

  - Use Calming Pheromones

  - Prevent Boredom and Inactivity 

- The Importance of Proper Litter Box Cleanliness

  - Daily Scooping

  - Monthly Deep Cleaning

  - Avoid Harsh Chemicals

  - Fragrance-Free Litters

  - Replace Old Boxes

  - Use Generous Amounts of Litter

- Conclusion

- FAQs

 

 Introduction

 

As any cat owner knows, our furry friends are fastidiously clean creatures by nature. So, when a cat suddenly develops diarrhea, it’s very concerning and disruptive to their normal routine. ☹️ Finding the underlying cause of the diarrhea will determine the appropriate route of treatment. Mild or acute cases often resolve on their own with simple at-home remedies. More severe or persistent bouts indicate veterinary attention is needed.

 

Fortunately, there are many natural remedies you can try to get your cat’s tummy back to normal before resorting to medications. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about safely and effectively treating diarrhea in cats at home. We’ll explore dietary changes, supplements, probiotics, hydration tips, stress reduction methods, veterinary guidance, prevention techniques, creating a cat-friendly home environment and much more. Read on to help get your kitty feeling - and pooping - better in no time! 💩👍

 

 Comprehending Feline Diarrhea 

 

To understand how to treat diarrhea in cats, it helps to first comprehend how the gastrointestinal (GI) tract functions normally.

 

The GI system has the important jobs of digesting food into nutrients, absorbing those nutrients into the bloodstream, and eliminating waste. Food passes from the stomach to the small intestine, where key nutrients like proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are broken down and absorbed. The indigestible matter then moves into the large intestine, where additional water and minerals are absorbed before the leftover waste is compacted and expelled as a bowel movement.

 

Diarrhea occurs when this normal GI process gets disrupted. It involves loose, watery, or poorly formed stools. This can occur if the intestines are moving matter too quickly to allow proper nutrient absorption. Or if the colon is not correctly reabsorbing fluid from the waste.

 

Acute diarrhea comes on suddenly but resolves within a few days. Chronic or long-term diarrhea persists for more than 3-4 weeks. Diarrhea can range from mild to severe. Severe cases may contain blood or mucus and require prompt veterinary treatment.

 

Left untreated, diarrhea leads to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances as fluid is lost. So getting diarrhea under control quickly is very important for your cat’s health and wellbeing.

 

 Determining The Cause of Cat Diarrhea

 

Pinpointing the underlying cause of your cat’s diarrhea will point you in the right direction for treatment. Here are explanations of the most common potential causes veterinarians look for:

 

 Dietary Indiscretions

 

Cats are skilled beggars and notorious for sneaking human food or getting into trash cans. Consuming new foods their systems aren’t accustomed to can upset their digestive tract and cause loose stools. Fatty or spicy treats are common culprits, as are spoiled leftovers.

 

If diarrhea strikes right after your cat stole food from the counter or garbage, that provides a clear picture of what’s going on. Withhold all extras treats and people food to allow their stomach and intestines to reset and recover.

 

 Food Sensitivities

 

Just like humans, cats can develop sensitivities or allergies to ingredients in their regular diet. This triggers an inflammatory reaction that leads to poor digestion and diarrhea. Common problem ingredients for cats include grain, wheat, egg, dairy, chicken, beef, fish and more.

 

Cats with severe food allergies need to be transitioned to a strict prescription hypoallergenic diet under veterinary guidance. For milder intolerances, read all food labels carefully and avoid ingredients that seem to trigger GI upset.

 

 Parasitic Infections

 

Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, whipworms or protozoa organisms can wreak havoc on your kitty's gut health. The parasites irritate the intestinal lining and disrupt normal digestion and absorption. Stool samples checked under a microscope can identify parasite eggs or protozoan cysts.

 

De-worming medication clears parasitic infections. But be sure to also thoroughly disinfect your home to prevent re-infection. Prompt parasite control is essential to resolving diarrhea and restoring proper gut function.

 

 Viral Infections

 

Highly contagious viruses like feline panleukopenia or feline coronavirus infect and damage the gut cells. This leads to inflammation, malabsorption, and profuse watery diarrhea. Viruses spread quickly between cats through bodily secretions, so isolate infected cats immediately.

 

Since antibiotics have no effect on viruses, supportive veterinary care handles viral infections. This includes medications to control vomiting and diarrhea alongside intravenous fluids to correct dehydration. Strict hygiene prevents further household spread. Vaccines are also key to prevent viral infections.

 

 Bacterial Infections

 

Certain bacteria like Salmonella, Clostridium, Campylobacter or E. coli can proliferate and overwhelm the normal GI microbiome. These pathogenic bacteria release toxins that damage the intestinal lining itself. Stool cultures identify the particular bacterial strains involved.

 

Antibiotics specifically treat bacterial forms of diarrhea by reducing the harmful bacteria allowing the GI tract to heal. However, antibiotics also kill off the “good” protective intestinal bacteria. So probiotic supplements should always be given alongside antibiotics. Keep infected cats isolated to avoid spreading bacteria through the home.

 

 Inflammatory Bowel Disease

 

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) involves chronic intestinal inflammation and malabsorption. It is a very common cause of recurrent, chronic diarrhea and vomiting in cats. IBD cats also often struggle with appetite, weight loss and lethargy.

 

Getting a definitive IBD diagnosis requires biopsies of the intestinal lining, taken via endoscopy under anesthesia. Special prescription anti-inflammatory diets and immunosuppressant medications help manage IBD long-term. Stem cell therapy also shows promise for difficult cases.

 

 Medication Side Effects

 

Antibiotics disrupt the natural balance of gut microbiome, often causing diarrhea as a medication side effect. Cancer chemotherapy drugs have gastrointestinal side effects as well, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

 

Always discuss medication-related diarrhea with your vet rather than stopping treatment suddenly. They can adjust dosages, change to other drugs or provide supplemental treatments to relieve the digestive symptoms. Probiotics help restore intestinal flora after antibiotic use.

 

 Stress and Anxiety

 

Stress affects the whole body - including altering normal GI system function. Changes to environment, routine, or family members can trigger stress and anxiety in cats. Stress stimulates nerves in the intestines, leading to motility issues.

 

Helping cats through stressful events reduces flare-ups of stress-induced diarrhea. Adjustments to their environment, pheromone supplements, and calming routines help stabilize kitty emotions and digestive health.

 

Identifying and thoughtfully treating the root cause of your cat’s diarrhea sets you on the right path. Mild diarrhea may quickly resolve at home, while severe or persisting cases warrant veterinary investigation and care.

 

 Signs of Dehydration – When to Visit the Vet

 

While home treatment is appropriate for mild bouts of diarrhea, certain red flag symptoms mean a veterinary visit is essential:

 

 Bloody Stool

 

Bloody diarrhea (hematochezia) or black, tarry stools indicate gastrointestinal bleeding. This requires urgent veterinary assessment to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Blood transfusions may be needed in severe cases.

 

 Lethargy and Loss of Appetite

 

Refusing food, hiding, vocalizing, weakness and other signs of lethargy are very concerning. Lethargic cats with diarrhea are at high risk of dehydration. Rush to your vet or emergency clinic immediately.

 

 Dehydration

 

Dehydration is dangerous for cats, especially kittens and seniors. Signs include dry gums, sunken eyes, poor skin elasticity, rapid heart rate, weakness, and dark urine. Seek veterinary fluid therapy urgently to correct dehydration before it becomes critical.

 

 Fever

 

A rectal temperature over 103 F signifies an underlying infection or inflammation. Fevers in cats with diarrhea typically require antibiotic therapy guided by veterinary testing. Never give human fever reducers.

 

 Difficulty Defecating

 

Straining to defecate with little production indicates a potential intestinal obstruction. Imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound allow vets to determine if a blockage is present. Treatment may involve laxatives, enemas, or even surgery.

 

 Weight Loss

 

Rapid weight loss and muscle wasting accompanying chronic diarrhea signifies your cat is not properly absorbing nutrients. Diagnostic testing helps determine the cause, while supportive hospital care manages weight loss.

 

 Diarrhea Over 48 Hours

 

It’s recommended to seek veterinary attention for any diarrhea persisting more than 48 hours without improvement, especially in younger kittens. Your vet can provide injectable anti-nausea medication, subcutaneous fluids, deworming, and other treatments as needed.

 

While home remedies have their place in mild diarrhea, severe symptoms call for the experienced guidance of your cat’s veterinarian. Their expertise and diagnostics work is key to getting diarrhea under control and avoiding complications.

 

 At-Home Treatments for Mild Cat Diarrhea

 

For a mild bout of diarrhea without concerning secondary symptoms, try these simple home remedies first:

 

 Diet Modifications

 

Switching to a bland, easily digestible diet gives your cat's inflamed GI tract a needed rest. A few good options are:

 

- Plain boiled chicken breast with white rice

- Low-fat cottage cheese mixed into their regular canned food

- Veterinary prescription digestive food made for gastroenteritis 

- Baby food with single ingredient meat varieties (chicken, turkey, beef, lamb)

 

Avoid dairy products, fatty foods, spices and other additives during the recovery period. Feed tiny, frequent portions of the bland diet until stools return to normal consistency. Then gradually transition back to regular cat food over several days.

 

 Supplemental Foods

 

Certain supplementary foods have natural properties that help resolve diarrhea:

 

Pumpkin – Plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling with spices) is high in soluble fiber that absorbs excess moisture in the colon to firm up loose stools. Give 1-4 tablespoons per day depending on your cat’s size.

 

Bone Broth - The natural gelatin in low-sodium chicken or beef bone broths coats and soothes inflamed intestines. Add a few teaspoons into your cat's meals. 

 

Oatmeal - Cooked oatmeal contains soluble fiber to absorb excess water in the colon. Mash a few tablespoons into your cat's food.

 

Banana - Very ripe banana is gentle on stomachs. It also contains pectin to soothe intestines. Mash a few tablespoons daily.

 

Yogurt - Plain yogurt with live active cultures helps restore probiotics to the gut. Give a teaspoon or two per day.

 

Baby Food - Single meat ingredient varieties provide easy to digest protein and nutrients for cats with diarrhea.

 

 Herbs and Natural Remedies

 

Herbal supplements can also help resolve diarrhea and soothe digestive upset:

 

Slippery Elm - The bark of this herb contains mucilage that coats and protects the GI tract. Give 1/4 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight daily.

 

Marshmallow Root - Similar to slippery elm, marshmallow root contains mucilage that coats the intestines. Use up to 1 teaspoon daily.

 

Chamomile Tea - Chamomile contains antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that relax the intestinal tract. Brew weak chamomile tea, allow to cool, and add a few tablespoons into your cat's food.

 

Ginger - Ginger root tea has anti-nausea effects. Give 1-2 tablespoons daily. It also adds fluids.

 

Apple Cider Vinegar - The acetic acid in ACV kills harmful gut bacteria. Mix 1 teaspoon into food 1-2 times daily. Use organic, unfiltered ACV.

 

 Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes

 

Diarrhea disrupts the natural balance of gut microbiome. Veterinary probiotics containing strains like Enterococcus faecium and Bacillus coagulans help restore healthy bacteria and digestive flora. Give as directed on the supplement label.

 

Digestive enzymes also aid proper breakdown of food and absorption of nutrients. They help reduce gas, bloating and diarrhea episodes. Discuss appropriate enzyme supplements with your vet.

 

 Hydration Methods

 

Dehydration is extremely dangerous for cats with diarrhea. Always provide ample fresh, clean drinking water. Add bone broths or low-sodium chicken stock to their food to increase fluid intake.

 

Subcutaneous fluids given under the skin help cats recoup hydration and electrolyte levels. Ask your vet for guidance on administering sub-Q fluids at home.

 

 Intermittent Fasting

 

Withholding all food for 12-24 hours gives your cat's GI tract a chance to rest and reset. However, provide constant access to water during the fast to prevent dehydration.

 

Once feeding resumes, stick to the bland diet in tiny, frequent portions. Fasting for more than 24 hours needs veterinary monitoring to avoid complications.

 

Have patience finding the right home remedy or combination that works for your individual cat. Even mild diarrhea should show improvement within 24-48 hours using natural treatments. Seek prompt medical guidance if symptoms persist or your cat appears very ill.

 

 Preventing and Managing Chronic Diarrhea

 

Once resolved, take steps to prevent repeat diarrheal episodes:

 

 Ongoing Veterinary Care

 

For cats prone to chronic diarrhea, close partnership with your vet is key. Follow their guidance for:

 

- Repeat lab tests and exams to monitor condition

- Prescription hypoallergenic diets

- Long term medications/supplements

- Regular deworming and flea control

- Lifestyle and home environment adjustments

 

 Identifying Triggers

 

Keep detailed records of your cat’s dietary intake and bowel movements each day. Monitor for patterns linking certain foods, treats, stressors or environmental factors with diarrhea flare ups. Avoiding those triggers is imperative.

 

 Environmental Enrichment

 

Cats with chronic GI disease benefit from daily enrichment that reduces stress and anxiety levels. Interactive playtime, food puzzle toys, cat towers, scratchers, catnip - prevent boredom and keep their minds engaged.

 

 Litter Box Hygiene

 

Meticulous litter box habits are vital for cats with frequent diarrhea. Scoop waste multiple times per day and deep clean boxes weekly. Use gentle, unscented litters and replace boxes every 3-6 months.

 

Ongoing care, lifestyle adjustments and close observation all help get recurring diarrhea under control. Partner with your vet to determine the most effective chronic diarrhea treatment plan.

 

 Creating a Cat-Friendly Home Environment

 

Cats naturally gravitate toward comfortable environments that make them feel secure. Making your home cat-friendly can greatly help minimize general stress that contributes to diarrhea episodes:

 

 Offer Ample Resources

 

Ensure cats have everything they need readily available to prevent conflicts. Have multiple food and water stations spread throughout your house. Offer several litter boxes, beds, scratching posts, perches and play areas so they never encounter blocked access or must compete over resources.

 

 Provide Vertical Space

 

Cats feel safest when up high where they can survey their territory. Install tall cat trees, wall-mounted shelves and perches, high-sided cat cubbies and enclosed catwalks. Floor-to-ceiling multi-level cat climbing walls utilize vertical room space. Place cat beds and window perches up high for superior vantage points. 

 

 Incorporate Hiding Places

 

Even the most social cats need access to quiet, secluded spots to retreat when they want privacy or feel overstimulated. Provide enclosed cat beds, cardboard boxes, fabric tunnels, cubby holes and similar hiding places. Rotate the options to keep the novelty. Respect when your cat seeks solitude in their safe space. 

 

 Use Calming Pheromones

 

Feliway and Spirit Essences Jackson Galaxy formulas utilize synthetic pheromones that cats associate with security and serenity. Diffusers, sprays, wipes and collars deliver the pheromones throughout your home to reduce anxiety and stress.

 

Prevent Boredom and Inactivity

 

Boredom can lead to stress. We'll explore ways to keep your cat mentally and physically engaged.

 

The Importance of Proper Litter Box Cleanliness

 

A clean litter box is vital for a cat's overall health and happiness.

 

Daily Scooping

 

Regular scooping maintains a clean environment for your cat.

 

Monthly Deep Cleaning

 

Periodic deep cleaning keeps the box fresh and inviting.

 

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

 

Choosing the right cleaning products is crucial. Discover safe options.

 

Fragrance-Free Litters

 

Cats prefer unscented litter. We'll explain why and offer alternatives.

 

Replace Old Boxes

 

Old and worn-out boxes may need replacement. Learn when it's time for a new litter box.

 

Use Generous Amounts of Litter

 

Adequate litter ensures your cat's comfort. We'll discuss how much litter is sufficient.

 

 Preventing Future Episodes

 

Once resolved, take steps to prevent future diarrhea flair-ups:

 

- Maintain proper parasite prevention

- Avoid sudden diet changes 

- Manage your cat's stress levels

- Discuss probiotic supplements with your vet

- Keep the litterbox ultra-clean

 

Learning your cat's triggers for diarrhea will help you respond quickly when episodes strike. Be vigilant to get on top of it before dehydration sets in.

 

 Conclusion

 

Dealing with a cat with diarrhea is no fun, but hopefully this article has armed you with several remedies to get your fur baby back to normal.

 

From bland diets and probiotics to bone broth and pumpkin, you have lots of options to try at home before resorting to the vet. Just be sure to seek medical care promptly if your cat seems extremely ill.

 

With some patience and TLC, you should have your cat's GI tract balanced and diarrhea-free. 💩 Just be sure to show your kitty some extra love once they are feeling better!

 

 FAQs about Cat Diarrhea Remedies

 

 What causes diarrhea in cats suddenly?

 

Sudden or acute diarrhea in cats can be caused by dietary indiscretion (eating people food or garbage), parasites, viruses, bacteria, stress, and other factors. Determining the cause will guide proper treatment.

 

 How long can a cat have diarrhea before you should take them to the vet?

 

It's generally recommended to take your cat to the vet if diarrhea lasts more than 24-48 hours. Kittens and cats who seem lethargic or ill despite home treatment should go to the vet sooner.

 

 Are there any over-the-counter medications I can give my cat for diarrhea?

 

There are no over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications specifically for cats. Most human medications like Imodium are not safe. Only give your cat medication prescribed directly by your veterinarian.

 

 Is it okay to withhold all food from a cat with diarrhea?

 

Withholding food for 12-24 hours can give your cat's GI tract a rest. But cats should still have access to water at all times to avoid dehydration. If fasting longer than 24 hours, seek veterinary monitoring.

 

 Can cats have Pepto Bismol for diarrhea?

 

No, Pepto Bismol contains salicylates which are toxic to cats. Never give your cat any medication like Pepto unless explicitly prescribed by your vet.

 

 What are some symptoms of dehydration in cats I should watch for?

 

Signs your cat is becoming dehydrated include dry gums, sunken eyes, weakness or collapsing, thick saliva, loss of skin elasticity, and dark yellow urine. Seek emergency vet care if your cat shows these symptoms.

 

 How much canned pumpkin should I give a cat with diarrhea?

 

For a typical 10 pound cat, try giving 2-4 tablespoons of canned pumpkin per day. Adjust according to your cat's size and response. Too much can cause constipation instead.

 

 How frequently should I feed a cat with diarrhea? 

 

Feed sick cats with diarrhea small, frequent meals instead of one or two large meals. This allows the gut to digest a little food at a time. Start with 4-6 tiny meals throughout the day during illness.

 

 Can I give my cat Imodium AD for diarrhea?

 

No, Imodium AD and other loperamide anti-diarrheal medications are not considered safe for cats. Only give medication prescribed specifically for your cat by your veterinarian.

 

 What is the fastest home remedy to stop diarrhea in cats?

 

For fast relief, try withholding all food for 12-24 hours to give the GI system rest. Make sure your cat is drinking water. You can also try 1/4 teaspoon of activated charcoal to quickly absorb toxins causing diarrhea.