Be Alert: Cat Vomiting and Diarrhea May Indicate Coliti

Section 1: What is Colitis?

Colitis is not a singular disease but rather a collective term for a series of conditions. Depending on the course of the illness, colitis in cats is typically categorized into three types: acute colitis, chronic colitis, and ulcerative colitis. Initially, cats with colitis may exhibit symptoms such as loss of appetite and lethargy. However, as the condition progresses, diarrhea and vomiting may set in. If left untreated, colitis can lead to severe dehydration, potentially resulting in the cat's demise.

Section 2: Causes of Colitis in Cats

1. Infectious Colitis:

a. Parasitic Infection: It's not uncommon for cats to develop colitis due to parasitic infections, such as those caused by blood flukes, which can easily trigger colitis.

b. Bacterial Infection: Cats naturally host E. coli in their intestines, but an abnormal proliferation of these bacteria can lead to bacterial colitis, a common cause of colitis in cats. Other bacteria, such as Staphylococcus and Salmonella, can also cause colitis.

c. Viral Infection: Viral colitis in cats often occurs when the virus multiplies extensively within the intestinal epithelial cells.

2. Physical and Chemical Irritants:

Cats may develop colitis if they ingest刺激性 substances, such as their own fur, while eating. If allowed to forage freely, they might consume other foreign objects that can irritate their digestive system.

3. Ulcerative Colitis:

The causes of ulcerative colitis in cats are often complex, usually stemming from lesions in the cat's colonic mucosa and submucosa. The exact pathogenesis is not well understood, and this condition is relatively rare in cats.

4. Primary Colitis:

Primary colitis is more common during a kitten's weaning period, the onset of estrus, or when cats experience stress. While less frequent, if a kitten or cat exhibits diarrhea during these critical stages, pet owners should not panic. Providing proper care and allowing the cat to adjust gradually can help alleviate the abnormal reactions.

Section 3: Treating Colitis in Cats

1. For vomiting and diarrhea symptoms, Pethidine can be used to provide relief. This medication helps cats quickly stop vomiting, alleviate pain, and control diarrhea. The dosage is half a tablet for cats weighing 6 to 10 kg, and one tablet for cats weighing 11 to 20 kg. The dosage can be adjusted accordingly. Owners can give the medication directly or mix it with food.

For cats and dogs weighing 11 to 20 kg, one tablet per dose.

2. Additionally, pet owners can supplement treatment with probiotics to regulate the cat's gut flora, effectively improving intestinal health and alleviating symptoms.

3. It is crucial to monitor for dehydration during treatment. If severe dehydration is detected, immediate veterinary attention and intravenous fluid therapy are necessary to prevent kidney failure. If the cat's condition is stable, owners can administer glucose solutions to replenish fluids.

Dr. Oxygen Pet Tips: To reduce the likelihood of colitis in cats, owners should establish a regular feeding routine. Provide meals at scheduled times and in appropriate portions. Avoid giving an entire day's worth of food at once, as this can lead to overeating. In hot weather, this can also result in the ingestion of spoiled food. Pay close attention to these details.