Improving Feline Digestion: Tips for a Healthy Cat's Gu
Understanding Cat Vomiting
1. Vomiting Cat Food
Causes: Cats may vomit due to indigestion, often caused by eating too quickly, overeating, or engaging in vigorous exercise immediately after eating, such as running or jumping.
Solutions: Control your cat's portion size and eating pace. Try to feed on a schedule, and for kittens, consider softening the kibble with warm water before feeding.
2. Hairball Vomiting
Causes: Hairballs form when a cat ingests hair that the digestive system cannot process, leading to them being vomited out.
Solutions: Regularly groom your cat to remove loose fur. Encourage your cat to consume cat grass or cat grass supplements to aid in digestion and hair elimination.
3. Vomiting Bile or Gastric Juice
Causes: This can occur when a cat is in a state of fasting, has not eaten for a long time, or has excessive stomach acid.
Solutions: Start with small, frequent meals and observe your cat's appetite. If persistent dry heaving occurs, it's best to consult a veterinarian.
4. Bloody Vomit
Causes: This could be due to inflammation or ingestion of sharp objects.
Solutions: Seek immediate veterinary care to check for bleeding, remove any foreign objects, and rule out diseases like feline distemper.
Diarrhea
Causes: Diarrhea in cats is often a sign of indigestion.
Solutions: Try fasting the cat for a day and administer probiotics twice a day. If symptoms persist, seek veterinary attention promptly.
Other Causes of Cat Intestinal Issues:
Inadequate Deworming
Cats can easily harbor parasites, which can lead to health issues. Regular deworming, both internal and external, is crucial.
Internal Deworming:
Cost: $40$50 per pill
Frequency: Once every 3 months
Deworming Types: Roundworms, hookworms, heartworms
External Deworming:
Cost: $60$100 per session
Frequency: Once every month
Deworming Types: Fleas, ticks, lice, mites
Application: Use an external applicator by parting the cat's fur at the nape of the neck and applying the drops directly onto the skin. After application, put on an Elizabethan collar to prevent the cat from licking it off.
There are also some daily care details that can harm your cat's intestines:
Limit Unhealthy Treats:
Avoid overfeeding treats to prevent picky eating. Feed treats 23 times a week and avoid highsodium, preservativeladen snacks like sausages and biscuits.
Avoid Sudden Diet Changes:
Quickly changing a cat's food can disrupt their digestive system, leading to diarrhea. Gradually transition to a new food over 7 days.
Do Not Mix New Food with Leftovers:
Adding new food to uneaten portions can cause digestive issues.
Take Note of Your Cat's Gut Health:
This guide provides insights into common feline gastrointestinal issues. If your cat experiences intestinal problems, consider a veterinary checkup. Remember, cats may not express discomfort until the issue is severe, so don't delay in seeking veterinary care.