Cats' Gastroenteritis: Causes & Treatment Methods Expla

When it comes to feline gastroenteritis, the most direct symptoms are often vomiting and a lack of appetite. To determine if a cat is suffering from gastroenteritis, one can observe changes in their demeanor and stool.

Upon examining a cat's feces, if you notice undigested food particles, a particularly unpleasant odor, and vomiting, these could be strong indicators of gastroenteritis. However, it's crucial to remember that a veterinary examination is the definitive way to confirm the diagnosis.

Symptoms of Feline Gastroenteritis

1. When a cat has gastroenteritis, they may exhibit signs such as a lack of energy, a slight increase in body temperature, decreased appetite, vomiting, abdominal pain, contraction of the abdomen, and a tendency to repeatedly look back at their stomach. A notable symptom is an increased thirst, which is often followed by vomiting. Gastroenteritis in cats is usually caused by corrosive substances, and the vomit may contain blood or fragments of the stomach lining. Cats may also resist being touched on their abdomen due to abdominal pain.

2. In cases where the primary symptom is enteritis, the cat may experience diarrhea. The stool will be sticky and have a fishy smell. In severe cases, the stool may turn black or dark green, sometimes mixed with blood or black clots. Abdominal auscultation may reveal an increase in bowel sounds, which later become faint. Prolonged illness can lead to dehydration and acidbase imbalances, and in severe cases, the cat may experience seizures and toxic dehydration, potentially leading to death.

High Incidence Periods and Types of Feline Gastroenteritis

Cats of all ages can be affected by gastroenteritis, but young cats are particularly susceptible. This is due to their shallow stomachs and inability to control their food intake. Even slight dietary mismanagement can trigger gastroenteritis. It's also important to note that milk is not recommended for cats, especially kittens, as many are lactose intolerant and lack the lactase enzyme to digest the lactose in milk. This can lead to soft stools or diarrhea, and in extreme cases, even death. If a kitten has not been weaned, it's best to feed them specially formulated kitten milk replacer.

Diagnosis Methods for Feline Gastroenteritis

Some diseases can mimic gastroenteritis, so it's essential to conduct differential diagnoses. Typically, a fecal sample is taken to test for feline distemper and to perform routine fecal examinations for parasites. A complete blood count can help assess the cat's condition and guide treatment.

Causes of Feline Gastroenteritis

1. Cold weather or being caught in the rain can cause a cat's abdomen to become chilled, leading to internal damage to the spleen and stomach. During hot weather, exposure to dampness and heat can also lead to gastroenteritis.

2. Overeating, particularly of cold, greasy, or rotting foods, can cause indigestion and damage the spleen and stomach, leading to gastroenteritis.

Dietary Treatment for Feline Gastroenteritis

How do you treat feline gastroenteritis? During treatment, pet owners should closely manage the cat's diet. It's best to feed a veterinarianrecommended medication along with a nutritious, easily digestible cat food. It's important to note that distinguishing between gastroenteritis and feline distemper is crucial, as both can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Unlike gastroenteritis, feline distemper will typically result in a body temperature above 40°C.