My cat has diarrhea, what should I give him?

My cat has diarrhea, what should I give him? - briefly

If your cat has diarrhea, it's crucial to monitor their hydration and consult a veterinarian promptly. In the meantime, you can offer them a bland diet consisting of cooked chicken or white fish with rice, avoiding dairy products and fatty foods.

My cat has diarrhea, what should I give him? - in detail

When your cat is experiencing diarrhea, it's important to take prompt action to help alleviate their discomfort and prevent dehydration. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Hydration: Diarrhea can lead to rapid loss of fluids, so ensuring your cat stays hydrated is crucial. You can offer small amounts of water frequently throughout the day. If your cat isn't drinking enough on their own, consider adding a bit of low-sodium chicken broth or tuna juice to the water to make it more enticing.

  2. Bland Diet: For the first 12-24 hours, switch your cat to a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken and rice. This can help soothe the digestive system and allow it to rest. Make sure the chicken is boneless and well-cooked, and the rice is plain and not seasoned with any spices or salt.

  3. Gradual Reintroduction: After 12-24 hours on the bland diet, gradually reintroduce your cat's regular food over a period of 24-48 hours. Mix increasing amounts of their usual food with decreasing amounts of the chicken and rice mixture until they are back to eating their normal diet.

  4. Probiotics: Probiotic supplements can help restore the natural balance of gut bacteria, which is often disrupted by diarrhea. You can find probiotic supplements specifically designed for cats at pet stores or online. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the package.

  5. Avoid Milk and Dairy: Contrary to popular belief, giving your cat milk or dairy products when they have diarrhea is not a good idea. Many cats are lactose intolerant, which means that consuming dairy can actually worsen their symptoms.

  6. Monitor for Improvement: Keep a close eye on your cat's condition. If the diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours or if you notice any other concerning symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or blood in the stool, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian immediately.

  7. Veterinary Care: If your cat's diarrhea is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, do not hesitate to contact your vet. They can provide professional guidance and may prescribe medications such as anti-diarrheals or antibiotics if necessary.