Gastrointestinal Issues in Cats
posted: Jan. 20, 2022.
It is normal for your cat to vomit once in a while. It is not normal if your cat vomits more than three times in 24 hours. It is also not normal if your cat seems to have diarrhea all of the time. Dr. Dave at Veterinary Outpatient Treatment Center in Medford looks at the most common causes of gastrointestinal problems in cats.
Hairballs
Cats can’t help but swallow some of their hair when they groom themselves. Over time, hair in the stomach needs to be expelled. It is normal for cats to cough up a hairball about once per week. You can help reduce these hairballs by brushing your cat regularly to remove loose hair that could be swallowed. Our veterinarian can suggest medication and a change in diet that will help.
Allergies
Although the most frequent symptom of allergies in cats is itchy skin, they can also suffer from vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal swelling, and excessive gas. Cats may also have itchy skin and gastrointestinal issues. Allergies can often be treated with help from your veterinarian.
Roundworms
Parasites are another common cause of cat stomach problems, none more so than roundworms. They are particularly common in kittens. Signs of roundworms not only include vomiting and diarrhea but a poor coat and a potbelly. If your cat or kitten vomits up worms, the infection is very bad.
Poisoning
Besides vomiting and diarrhea, other signs of poisoning include drooling, pale gums, tremors, seizures, loss of coordination, breathing problems, and irregular heartbeat. This is a medical emergency. Your cat needs immediate treatment from a veterinarian.
Illnesses
Cat stomach problems or chronic diarrhea are common signs of illness in cats. If your cat is vomiting and showing other symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, or blood in the vomit, then your cat needs to go to an animal hospital right away. Your cat will need tests to determine the cause of the illness, which may include blood tests and endoscopy.
Is Your Cat Having Gastrointestinal Issues?
If your cat is chronically vomiting or has diarrhea, he or she needs to see a veterinarian. If you live in the Medford area, contact Veterinary Outpatient Treatment Center to speak with Dr. Dave. Call our team today at (631) 730-6929 to schedule an appointment.