Effective Ways to Treat Chronic Diarrhea in Cats

Photo credit: Bigstockphoto
Photo credit: Bigstockphoto

Just like humans, cats could sometimes develop diarrhea and the cause for it will vary — from minor irritation to a treatable disease. It could also be a symptom of a potentially life-threatening condition. And unlike other animals, cats are very sensitive with its surroundings and diet; minor changes are bound to irritate the stomach of cats. Ideally, you want to have your cat checked to make sure he’s getting the best care. You could also follow up with the tips below:

Adjust Your Cat’s Diet

One of the most common reasons for chronic diarrhea in cats is the kind of food they eat. Some cats may be sensitive to a specific ingredient in its food. You need to check the label of the cat food you usually serve. It should be free from grains and/or gluten. Cats are carnivores. Their bodies are not made to digest grains. This could be causing chronic diarrhea in cats.

Most cat foods contain preservatives, binders, and artificial ingredients that could irritate your feline friend’s gut. Try adjusting your cat’s diet by adding an all-natural brand of cat food. But do it gradually — otherwise, it could aggravate your cat’s condition!

Try adding little bits of the new cat food in the usual food you serve your cat. Gradually add more of the new stuff each day until your cat’s taste and gut has adjusted to the new food.

You could also develop your ownhome-cooked cat food to make sure you are giving your pet the best nourishment. A bland recipe of boiled chicken or hamburger with two parts rice is a great meal for cats suffering from chronic diarrhea.

And just like human beings, keep your cat hydrated. You want to prevent your cat from being dehydrated when his gut is acting out.

Feeding Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin is an effective treatment for diarrhea in cats. It helps soothe irritated stomach and normalize bowel movement. Of course, when choosing the right pumpkin puree brand, make sure you’re choosing 100% pure pumpkin puree and not the ones meant for pie filling.

First, you need to fast your cat for at least 24 hours. Then replace his food with pumpkin puree, feeding about 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree every six hours. Keep feeding your cat with pumpkin puree for 30 hours and then gradually feed your cat with an easy-to-digest meal.

Adding Probiotics

Adding good gut bacteria to your cat’s diet is also a great treatment for chronic diarrhea in cats. Probiotics help normalize digestive function in the stomach and prevent irritation.

Buy high-quality natural yogurt from the local grocer and feed your cat a couple of spoonful twice per day. You can also mix yogurt in his food or feed him via a needleless syringe when he has no appetite.

It’s important to track your cat’s progress especially when he’s suffering from diarrhea. Observe his stool for blood. If you see blood in his stool, take your cat to your vet immediately to determine the cause of the condition.