Cats Vomiting and Diarrhea: Possible Causes and Solutio

Section 1: What is Feline Enteritis?

Enteritis is a common ailment that many people mistakenly believe affects only humans. However, this is far from the truth. Even the most adorable and gentle cats can fall victim to this condition. Feline enteritis primarily refers to the inflammation of the mucous membranes in a cat's stomach and intestinal tract.

Depending on the cause, enteritis can be categorized into two types: enteritis and gastritis. If we consider the speed of onset, it can further be divided into chronic and acute enteritis.

Section 2: Clinical Symptoms of Feline Enteritis

When a cat contracts enteritis, its abdomen may tense up as a protective measure. Using a stethoscope, one can detect changes in the cat's abdominal sounds as the condition progresses. Initially, the internal sounds of the intestines are much louder than during good health. As the illness worsens, these sounds gradually diminish.

The outward clinical manifestations of enteritis in cats can vary depending on the speed of onset.

1. Gastritisdominated enteritis:

Cats with gastritis may show signs of depression and a lack of energy. As the condition intensifies, their body temperature may rise. They may also experience a significant decrease in appetite, drinking more water but vomiting after each drink. The cat may pull in its abdomen in selfprotection, making it difficult for owners to touch. This is not a sign of disinterest in the owner but rather a result of the discomfort caused by the illness.

In cases where the gastritis is caused by corrosive substances, owners may notice blood and small pieces of stomach lining in the vomit.

2. Enteritisdominated enteritis:

Cats with enteritis may primarily exhibit diarrhea as a symptom.

Analysis of the cat's feces reveals that the stool is mostly liquid with an unpleasant smell. In the later stages of enteritis, the stool may turn completely black or dark green, sometimes with black threads or clots of blood.

Section 3: Why Do Cats Get Enteritis?

1. Weather Changes:

Just like humans, cats can experience gastrointestinal discomfort due to changes in temperature. If cats are not properly prepared for seasonal changes, they may develop enteritis.

2. Lactose Intolerance:

Contrary to popular belief, cats should not drink milk. Many cats are lactose intolerant due to a lack of lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose. Drinking milk can lead to soft stools or diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can be lifethreatening.

3. Young Cats Have Shallow Stomachs:

Compared to adult cats, young cats have shallower stomachs and are less likely to control their food intake. Overeating can easily lead to enteritis if feeding is not monitored properly.

4. Improper Feeding:

When switching cat food brands or types, it is important to gradually reduce the amount. Sudden changes can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Other common cases include cats overeating, leading to indigestion.

5. Food Poisoning:

Cats that are allowed to roam outside or live in homes with potted plants may accidentally ingest toxic plants. There is also a possibility of cats ingesting cosmetics or human medications. It is important to keep these items out of reach.

Section 4: Common Toxic Plants for Cats at Home

Bamboo Palm, Peace Lily, and Poinsettia: These plants can cause vomiting and gastrointestinal discomfort in cats.

Philodendron, Dieffenbachia, and Money Tree: These plants, part of the Araceae family, have toxic sap that can cause irritation and damage to the mouth and digestive tract.

Lilies and Tulips: Lilies are particularly dangerous to cats. Eating just two to three leaves or parts of the flower can lead to polyuria, dehydration, acute kidney failure, and death within 3 to 7 days.

Section 5: Symptoms of Feline Enteritis

1. Vomiting:

Cats naturally have a welldeveloped vomiting center and need to expel hairballs, so occasional vomiting is not necessarily abnormal. However, if a cat is listless and lacks appetite and vitality after vomiting, it is best to seek medical attention.

2. Diarrhea:

Stool will be watery and have a foul smell. If the condition worsens, the stool may turn black or dark green, with blood threads or clots.

3. Abdominal Pain:

Severe abdominal pain may cause cats to refuse to be touched and may be accompanied by tension.

4. Contraction of the Abdomen:

Cats may continuously contract their abdomen and look towards their stomach. They may also go to cooler corners or the ground after vomiting.

Section 6: Care Instructions for Feline Enteritis

1. Fasting and Dehydration:

After discovering that a cat is vomiting, it is best to start fasting and dehydration to avoid exacerbating the vomiting symptoms. After 8 hours, if the cat stops vomiting, offer a small amount of warm water. After 24 hours, you can start giving small amounts of easily digestible liquid food or prescription cans for the cat's intestines.

2. Medication:

In severe cases, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to ensure a quick recovery. Veterinary hospitals typically provide treatments such as antiinflammatory, antidiarrheal, and fluid replacement. Chronic enteritis may take 2 to 3 months to heal, so patience and proper care are essential. If immediate medical attention is not possible, temporary use of pediatric lactase or montmorillonite powder can be considered, but it is still recommended to visit the hospital as soon as possible.

Tip: Click on "How to Treat Feline Enteritis" for more information on treating feline enteritis.