Effective Solutions for Cat Diarrhea: Quick Tips & Home
When your cat is suffering from diarrhea, there are several steps you can take to help them recover. Here's what you should do:
1. Temporary Fasting for Your Cat
Diarrhea in cats often requires a period of fasting to allow their digestive system to rest. The duration of fasting depends on the severity of the diarrhea, but generally, it should last at least 78 hours. In more severe cases, fasting might be necessary for 12 days. During this time, you can offer your cat some canned food to help keep them hydrated and regain strength, depending on their energy levels.
2. Supplementing with Probiotics
Cats may experience diarrhea due to sensitive stomachs, weakened intestines, or poor digestion. This is often because their digestive system lacks the necessary enzymes and probiotics, leading to intestinal disturbances. To address this, you can introduce probiotics into your cat's diet to replenish what's missing and support their gut health. This can be done by adding probiotic supplements to their food or by choosing cat foods that are fortified with probiotics.
3. Adjusting Your Cat's Diet
After the fasting period, it's important to reintroduce food gradually. Avoid feeding your cat anything that is hard to digest, as this can exacerbate their gastrointestinal issues. Opt for a bland, easily digestible diet, and reduce the amount of dry kibble. Only feed your cat when they are ready, and ensure that their diet is gentle on their stomach as they recover.
4. Ensuring Your Cat Stays Warm
Diarrhea can leave your cat feeling quite weak. It's crucial to keep them warm to prevent further complications. Provide a cozy environment with thick blankets and a warm bed. After feeding, encourage your cat to rest and recover in a comfortable spot.
Tip:
Diarrhea is a common issue, especially in kittens. If your cat is experiencing severe diarrhea, consider a period of fasting followed by a diet adjustment to help restore their gut health and alleviate the diarrhea.
