Stomach problems in cats: When your cat has a stomach ache
Stomach problems in cats can be a real challenge for pet owners. Your cat seems lethargic, refuses food, or is vomiting – and you wonder what's behind it. In fact, the causes can range from a harmless stomach upset to more serious conditions like gastritis. In this blog, we'll explore the most common triggers, symptoms, and treatment options, and give you helpful tips on how to help your cat with stomach problems.
How do you recognize stomach problems in your cat?
Stomach problems can manifest in cats in a variety of ways. Often, the symptoms are subtle and can easily be overlooked. Here are the most common signs:
Typical symptoms of stomach problems:
- Vomiting (with or without food residue)
- Diarrhea or loose stools
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy and withdrawal
- Abdominal pain (recognizable by restlessness or whimpering)
- Nausea (e.g. smacking, increased licking of the lips)
- Weight loss for long-term problems
If you notice one or more of these symptoms, you should determine the cause to help your cat quickly.
Causes of stomach problems in cats
The causes of stomach problems in cats are varied. Anything from harmless triggers to serious illnesses is possible.
1. Wrong or spoiled food
- Sudden changes in food or spoiled food can irritate your cat's sensitive stomach.
2. Hairballs (trichobezoars)
- When grooming, your cat swallows hair, which can form into hairballs in the stomach and cause vomiting.
3. Gastrointestinal infections
- Bacterial or viral infections can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
4. Inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis)
- An inflamed stomach lining can be caused by stress, medication or improper food.
5. Parasites
- Worms or other parasites in the intestines can lead to digestive problems.
6. Stress
- Stress and anxiety can affect your cat's gastrointestinal health.
7. Chronic diseases
- Conditions such as kidney failure or liver disease can also cause stomach problems.
Gastrointestinal infection in cats: A common problem
One of the most common causes of acute stomach problems is a gastrointestinal infection. This is often triggered by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
Symptoms of a gastrointestinal infection in cats:
- Frequent vomiting
- Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
- Severe discomfort
- Fever
A gastrointestinal infection often goes away on its own in mild cases, but can also have serious consequences if left untreated.
When should you go to the vet?
- If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours.
- If your cat appears severely dehydrated (e.g. sunken eyes, dry mucous membranes).
- If blood is visible in the vomit or stool.
First aid for stomach problems: What can you do?
If your cat is suffering from stomach problems, you can help with a few simple measures:
1. Fasting day
- Don't give your cat any food for 12–24 hours to allow its stomach to settle. However, water should always be available.
2. Offer a light diet
- After the fast, you can give bland food such as boiled chicken and rice or special cat food.
3. Remove hairballs
- Brush your cat regularly to reduce the formation of hairballs. Malt pastes can help expel hair that has already been swallowed.
4. Ensure hydrogenation
- Make sure your cat drinks enough to prevent dehydration. If necessary, unsalted chicken broth can help promote fluid intake.
5. Try home remedies
- A small spoonful of pumpkin or carrot puree can be helpful for mild digestive problems.
When should you go to the vet?
Sometimes home remedies aren't enough, and a visit to the vet is necessary. Watch for these warning signs:
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Lethargy and weakness
- Dehydration
- Weight loss
A veterinarian can use blood tests, stool samples or ultrasound to determine the cause of the stomach problems and treat them specifically.
How can you prevent stomach problems?
The best treatment is often prevention. With a few simple measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of stomach problems in your cat:
1. High-quality feed
- Feed a high-quality cat food that is tailored to your cat's needs.
2. Regular deworming
- Protect your cat from parasites by deworming regularly.
3. Slow feed change
- If you want to change the food, do so gradually so as not to overwhelm your cat's stomach.
4. Avoid stress
- Create a relaxed environment for your cat and avoid sudden changes.
5. Regular grooming
- Brush your cat regularly to minimize hair ingestion.
Frequently asked questions about stomach problems in cats
“How do I recognize gastritis in my cat?”
Typical signs include vomiting, loss of appetite, and restlessness. A visit to the veterinarian is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
“Can I give my cat home remedies?”
Yes, but only in consultation with a veterinarian. Pumpkin puree or unsalted chicken broth can help with minor problems.
“How long does a gastrointestinal infection last in cats?”
Mild cases often clear up within 1–3 days. If symptoms are severe, you should consult your veterinarian.
“What to do if you have vomiting and diarrhea at the same time?”
If vomiting and diarrhea are severe, you should not hesitate to consult a veterinarian as there is a risk of dehydration.
Conclusion: Stomach problems in cats – caution is better than cure
Stomach problems in cats can range from harmless causes to serious illnesses. The most important points at a glance:
- Recognize symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and lethargy are typical signs.
- Clarify causes: There are many triggers, from food intolerances to infections.
- Treatment: Home remedies and a bland diet can help, but in severe cases a visit to the vet is necessary.
- Prevention: High-quality food, regular grooming and stress reduction are crucial.
With the right measures, you can help your cat recover quickly and avoid stomach problems in the future!
