Diarrhea is one of those many human conditions that can also affect cats. But unlike humans, diarrhea in cats can have far more serious consequences. That’s why it should never be taken lightly.
There’s no debate about whether cats can get diarrhea, because they absolutely can. What really deserves the attention of cat parents is how often and how severely their cat experiences this condition.
- Does your cat keep getting diarrhea every few weeks?
- Is your cat’s poop unusually loose or watery?
You might have even more questions running through your mind, and this blog has answers to them all, straight from our registered vets.
Does cat diarrhea resolve on its own?
Yes, cat diarrhea can resolve on its own within a day or two. This type of mild diarrhea often occurs due to:
- Changes in diet or mealtime
- Environmental factors that trigger stress
In such cases, your cat may have diarrhea but still act completely normal. This condition typically doesn’t last more than 48 hours and usually isn’t accompanied by other signs of illness.
However, if your cat continues to pass loose stools beyond two days, it’s a sign that something more serious might be going on and it’s time to consult a vet.
How to know if cat diarrhea is serious?
We’ve seen many pet owners struggle to figure out whether their feline is actually sick or not. One of the most common questions we get is: “What if my cat has diarrhea but acts normal?” We advise you to pay close attention to their defecation habits and schedule.
Firstly, if your cat’s diarrhea persists for more than a couple of days, it could indicate an underlying issue that requires veterinary care.
Another way to determine the severity of the condition is by observing the color and consistency of your cat’s poop.
What does the color of cat poop mean?
Use the following chart to help identify what the color of your cat’s stool might indicate:
| Color of the Stool | Possible Cause |
| Chocolate brown | Normal and healthy |
| Green | May result from eating certain plants or indicate a bacterial infection |
| Yellow | Could signal a liver or gallbladder disorder |
| Red | Bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract |
| Black | Signal bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract |
Cat stool and its consistency
In addition to monitoring how often your cat defecates, it’s equally important to observe the texture of the stool. As the condition worsens, the stool’s consistency typically changes as follows:
- Normal: Well-formed and holds its shape
- Soft and Mushy: Lacks a defined shape but still has some texture
- Liquid Stools: Completely watery with no textureÂ
Common signs and symptoms of diarrhea in cats
Aside from sudden changes in stool color and consistency, diarrhea in cats may also be accompanied by other symptoms. Keep an eye out for the following signs, which may indicate an underlying issue:
- Fever
- VomitingÂ
- Gas (flatulence)
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetiteÂ
- WeaknessÂ
- DehydrationÂ
- Weight loss
- Mucus or blood in stool
How long does cat diarrhea last?
Cat diarrhea can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. Its duration depends on the severity of the condition, the underlying cause, and the treatment provided.
Based on how long it lasts, cat diarrhea is generally categorized into two types:
- Acute Diarrhea: Usually resolves in less than 2 weeks
- Chronic Diarrhea: May persist for several weeks before fully resolving
In both cases, the causes are different and require thorough veterinary evaluation to determine the right course of treatment.
What causes diarrhea in cats?
Pet owners often ask us, “My cat keeps getting diarrhea, what should I do?” The first step is understanding the potential causes, which can help you take the right action to support your cat’s health.
There are several reasons why your cat might be experiencing diarrhea. Common causes include:
- Dietary changes (new food, sudden switch in diet)
- Food intolerance or allergy
- Overeating or eating spoiled food
- Intestinal parasites (e.g., roundworms, hookworms, giardia)
- Bacterial infections (such as Salmonella or E. coli)
- Viral infections (e.g., feline panleukopenia, FIV, FeLV)
- Stress or anxiety (new environment, loud noise, travel, etc.)
- Toxins or ingestion of harmful substances
- Side effects of medication or antibiotics
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Pancreatitis
- Liver or kidney disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Cancer or tumors in the digestive tract
Is my cat having diarrhea an emergency?
Yes, diarrhea in cats can be considered an emergency under certain circumstances. You should seek immediate veterinary care if your cat is:
- A kitten
- A senior cat
- Pregnant
- Chronically ill
Kittens with diarrhea are especially vulnerable to dehydration, which can escalate quickly. Similarly, in elderly cats, diarrhea can be just as dangerous due to their weakened immune systems and reduced ability to recover.
What stops diarrhea in cats?
Never give your cat over-the-counter remedies or medications meant for humans. I repeat never. Doing so can worsen your cat’s condition and lead to serious complications.
You should always consult an experienced veterinarian. Visiting your nearest clinic, like Pet First, ensures your cat receives proper care and treatment.
However, if you genuinely want to support your cat’s recovery, here are a few things you can do at home.
What is the best food for cats with diarrhea?
When your cat is dealing with diarrhea, switching to a bland, easy-to-digest diet can help soothe their digestive system but only after consulting your vet.Â
Here are some recommended food options:
- Boiled chicken
- Plain white rice or pumpkin
- Prescription gastrointestinal diets
- Hydration-focused wet food
Avoid feeding treats, milk, raw meat, or any fatty, spicy, or processed foods during this time. Once your cat’s stool begins to normalize, you can gradually transition them back to their regular diet.
Final Thoughts
While one or two episodes of diarrhea in cats may not be a cause for concern, you should never ignore them completely. Overlooking these signs or attempting self-treatment can make your cat’s condition worse. Consulting a vet should always be your priority.
