Is your cat having trouble pooping? Chances are it might be suffering from diarrhea. Felines are just like humans when it comes to having upset tummies. As a matter of fact, they practically have the same symptoms and are almost caused by the same reasons.
Seeing them lose their appetite can be a bit frustrating, especially when they become weak and lethargic. In most cases, diarrhea in cats is usually a symptom of a medical condition, if it stops within the day, the better but if it persists, it would be wise to bring your kitty to the nearest vet.
In most cases, persistent diarrhea is caused by poor diet. Your cat might have drank spoilt milk or might have eaten foods that contain a large number of allergens. In short, being mindful of your feline’s daily food intake would make wonders for his or her overall gut health.
Food Recommendations for Diarrhea in Cats
This list of cat foods are being provided based on research we did around the web. We scoured forums and other blogs where people were discussing diarrhea and IBD issues in cats and are compiling what we saw as the most recommended products that have been successful.
In no particular order – here are the most recommended cat foods for diarrhea:
Natures Variety Instinct Canned Cat Food
Grain-free cat food that offers high animal protein and is grain free. The first listed ingredient is a rabbit, pork liver, broth and ground flaxseed and there is also veggies and fruits listed as well. There are some other ingredients listed that do not make us happy like montmorillonite clay – but overall this food seems to have had great results for many cats.
Rad Cat Raw Cat Food
This cat food has been mentioned repeatedly in various online communities. Rad Cat is a premium food that features ingredients like free range chicken, organic dried egg yolk and only other items that we actually know! They also have an added vitamin E supplement as well. There are no grains, preservatives or hormones making this a top pick for most kitties exhibiting health issues.
Hounds & Gato Cat Food
Another cat food that has animal protein but no fillers, by-products or grains. The first ingredients are chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver and the list includes a variety of supplements to keep your cat healthy. Because of its rich protein base and water content, they note that this is a great food that helps to prevent issues like kidney disease and IBD.
Check Today’s Price on AmazonWhat Are Some Common Reasons Cats Have Diarrhea?
There are just so many reasons that your cat could diarrhea – and as much as the odor my gross you out – we can only imagine how uncomfortable it is for our feline friends. It is important to understand why your kitty has an upset belly – so here are just a few of many reasons your cat may be feeling not so great.
- Diet changes / Food Allergies
- Illness such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (requires a vet visit for testing)
- Human food
- Eating of grass (our cat always eats grass, this causes her to throw up, but other cats may get diarrhea)
- Worms (requires a vet visit for testing)
- Cancer (if excessive diarrhea is happening we recommend a vet visit for testing)
- Chemical toxins
Without knowing what exactly is causing your baby to have diarrhea it can of course be difficult to treat – but sometimes something as simple as changing their food may help them feel better.
What Are Some Treatments For Diarrhea In Cats?
If generally speaking your cat is healthy, there are something you can try to help your cat feel better. Below is a list of things you can try if your cat has diarrhea:
WITHHOLD FEEDING Withhold food for approximately 24 hours, but make sure your cat has fresh water at all times. You can slowly bring back the food in small portions at a time working back up to their normal feeding schedule.
HOME PREPARED DIET Trying some foods that can even help humans with diarrhea is another option for cats as well. Boiled rice, pasta or cooked chicken can all be given to your cat.
ANTI-DIARRHEAL AGENTS/DEWORMERS If there is a chance your cat has worms then a dewormer may be what they need. You can also try an over the counter pet probiotic or anti-diarrheal medication.
If your cat has excessive diarrhea for a long period of time, is not eating or drinking or seems lethargic – please get them to a veterinarian ASAP!
What Should You Look For In A Cat Food For Diarrhea?
Manufacturer’s Reputations
A manufacturer’s reputation plays a lot when it comes to your cat’s safety. To say the least, a premium pet food company always abides by their high-quality ingredients and safe manufacturing processes.
Adherence to industry standards is often overlooked by many pet owners for the sake of a cheaper bargain. In any sense, giving them poorly prepared meals can really make them sick in the long run and will ultimately be more expensive.
Go Natural
Veterinarians will often recommend hypoallergenic foods if your cat has tummy troubles but we are recommending even something more natural than traditional cat foods. Cat food that is grain-free and closer to a raw diet will probably offer your cat the quickest relief.
Read the ingredients in your cat’s food – of course the more natural foods will cost a little more but may save you on vet bills in the long run. If your cat has diarrhea that means they may become dehydrated so we would recommend a moist food instead of kibble to help them get back on track, but we will provide options for both.
Make sure you opt for GRAIN FREE options!
Specific Nutritional Requirements
Like humans, cats also have nutritional requirements that need to be met by eating a healthy meal. Looking at the label can give you an idea of how healthy these feeds are.
This is one of the most important factors in choosing the best cat food. Most of us would settle for cheaper brands which might have severe repercussions in the long run. Just to make sure, you can look for ingredients that are rich in these nutrients on the label.
In general, dietary protein supplies essential amino acids like arginine and taurine to build your cat’s strong frame while essential fatty acids promote a healthy heart. Carbs are relatively the most efficient energy source and fiber promotes a healthy digestive system.
Age Of Cat
Your cat’s nutritional requirements also depend on their age. A kitten’s dietary needs differ from an adult feline, and even more so from elderly cats.
Although nutrient requirements for kittens and adult cats slightly differ, elderly felines need a low protein diet as most of them are prone to kidney infections, their leading cause of death.
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