Cat diarrhoea
Diarrhoea in cats is relatively common — from diet changes to parasites, intolerances or infections. Cats dehydrate quickly, so monitor carefully.
⚠ Emergency signs
- Diarrhoea with blood or black stools
- Kitten under 6 months with diarrhoea
- Vomiting alongside
- Lethargy + refusing water/food
- Diarrhoea over 48h
- Dehydration signs (dry gums)
- Fever above 39.5°C
Types of diarrhoea
Acute (under 7 days, usually transient) or chronic (over 2 weeks — needs investigation). By appearance: watery (small intestine, under 24h), mucous/bloody (colon, more serious), pasty (mild digestive).
Common causes
- Sudden food change or inappropriate snack (cow's milk for adult cats, spiced foods)
- Intestinal parasites (giardia, roundworms, tapeworms)
- Stress (moving, new pet, household changes)
- Food intolerance
- Viral infections (panleukopenia in kittens, FeLV/FIV — test at vet)
- Excessive hairballs
- Recent antibiotic course (gut flora imbalance)
EMERGENCY SIGNS
- Diarrhoea with fresh blood or tar-black stools
- Kitten under 6 months with diarrhoea
- Vomiting alongside
- Cat lethargic, refuses water and food
- Diarrhoea continues over 48 hours
- Dehydration signs: dry gums, sunken eyes, persistent skin tent
- Fever (above 39.5°C rectal)
What you can do at home (mild cases)
Ensure fresh water always available (dehydration is the main risk). Bland diet: boiled chicken breast + boiled pumpkin (1 teaspoon for adult cat, 2-3 times daily). Avoid milk. Reintroduce normal food gradually over 2-3 days. If kitten has multiple-cat litter, sort stools so you can show the vet.
Probiotics for cats
Cat-specific probiotics exist (Fortiflora, ProBalance) and may help. DO NOT use human probiotics without vet advice — many contain xylitol or other toxic sweeteners.
Prevention
Gradual transition to new food (10-14 days). Up-to-date dewormers (every 3 months). Vaccines current. Constant access to fresh water. Clean litter — cats stressed by dirty litter can develop digestive issues.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I wait before calling the vet?
Active adult cat, no red flags: 24-48 hours with bland diet. Kitten, senior cat, or any emergency sign (blood, vomiting, lethargy): call immediately.
Can I give Smecta or Imodium to a cat?
NO. Imodium is toxic to cats. Smecta only on vet recommendation. Use bland diet + water instead.
Why diarrhoea after wet food?
Possible intolerance to an ingredient (chicken, fish, lamb). Try mono-protein wet food (single meat type). If persists, vet consult.
Is green stool serious?
Green from food colour (green vegetables in composition) — OK. Green with mucus and bleeding — emergency.
⚠ Information for educational purposes. For diagnosis and treatment, consult a veterinarian.