Is it a hairball, or something more serious? Knowing the potential digestive issues that can affect your cat is important for any cat owner, so we’re here to help you identify one from the other.
Digestive issues are wide-ranging in cats, but can be kept at bay with nutritious food, frequent hydration and regular grooming.
Check out our short list of common symptoms to keep a look out for:
Hairballs
Cats groom themselves regularly and may ingest hair, leading to the formation of hairballs in the stomach. While occasional vomiting of hairballs is normal, excessive or frequent vomiting may indicate an issue.
Diarrhoea
Cats can suffer from two forms of diarrhoea: one of the large intestine and another of small intestine. In the large intestine version, their stool comes more frequently than normal, but may also come with blood. In the small intestine version, they may produce green or orange colored stool. In either case, it’s best to consult your vet to correctly identify the core problem.
Constipation
Cats may experience difficulty passing stool due to dehydration, inadequate fibre intake, hairballs, or underlying medical conditions. Symptoms include straining in the litter box, decreased appetite, and discomfort. Megacolon is a condition characterised by chronic constipation and abnormal enlargement of the colon. It can result from various underlying causes and may require medical management or surgical intervention.
Dietary Intolerance or Allergies
Some cats may develop digestive issues in response to certain ingredients in their food, such as grains or proteins. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, and skin problems.
Most digestive issues are treatable
Happily, many common causes of digestive problems in cats are preventable. Keep your pet up to date with vet check-ups and feed them balanced, high-quality cat food.
If you notice any signs of digestive issues in your cat, it is important to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Untreated digestive problems can lead to discomfort, dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and other complications.
