What to do if a cat has diarrhea, what to give? - briefly
If your cat is experiencing diarrhea, it's crucial to monitor their hydration and provide them with a bland diet. Offer them boiled chicken or fish mixed with rice, avoiding dairy products and fatty foods.
What to do if a cat has diarrhea, what to give? - in detail
If your cat is experiencing diarrhea, it's crucial to address this issue promptly and appropriately to prevent dehydration and further health complications. Here are some steps you can take:
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Monitor Hydration: Diarrhea can lead to rapid dehydration in cats. Ensure your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times. You may also need to administer fluids subcutaneously (under the skin) if your cat becomes severely dehydrated. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on this procedure.
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Temporary Diet Change: A bland diet can help settle your cat's stomach and firm up their stool. For a short period, you can feed your cat boiled chicken (with no skin or bones) mixed with a small amount of plain white rice. This should be given in small amounts frequently throughout the day. Avoid giving your cat dairy products, as many cats are lactose intolerant and this could worsen their condition.
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Gradual Reintroduction: After 24-48 hours on a bland diet, gradually reintroduce your cat's regular food. Mix increasing amounts of the regular food with decreasing amounts of the bland diet over several days until your cat is back to eating their usual food exclusively.
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Avoid Human Food: While it might be tempting to offer your cat table scraps, this can often exacerbate diarrhea. Stick to a diet specifically formulated for cats.
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Check for Foreign Objects: Cats are curious creatures and may ingest non-food items that could cause diarrhea. Inspect your cat's stool for any signs of foreign objects or unusual substances. If you find something, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Consult Your Veterinarian: If the diarrhea persists for more than a couple of days, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, or blood in the stool, it's essential to consult your veterinarian. These could be signs of a more serious underlying condition that requires professional treatment.
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Prevent Access to Potential Irritants: Keep your cat away from areas where they might ingest toxic substances, such as chemicals, plants, or foods that are harmful to cats (like chocolate, onions, grapes, and raisins).
By following these guidelines, you can help manage your cat's diarrhea effectively and support their overall health.