Warning Signs of Problems With a Cat's Stomach

Just like humans, cats can suffer from stomach and intestinal problems. Early detection and treatment of these conditions is essential to your cat's health and well-being. Stomach problems can be an indication of a more severe health condition, which can potentially be fatal. Stomach ailments in cats can be recognized by various warning signs. Observing your cat closely can help you discover these signs early on.

  1. Swollen Abdomen

    • A swollen abdomen in cats may be an indication of a complete or partial intestinal blockage. Cats have approximately two stools per day. If fecal matter remains in your cat's colon, it dries and hardens and becomes difficult to pass. Your cat may not be able to defecate, or he may defecate less frequently. Ingestion of a foreign body and a tumor are other possible conditions that may trigger an intestinal blockage.

    Vomiting

    • Vomiting can be an indication of a disorder of the intestines and stomach. If your cat acts normal after vomiting, it may not be triggered by a serious condition. However, if your pet companion appears lethargic, has a lack of appetite and consistently vomits over the course of at least one week, it may be a sign of a gastrointestinal disorder or other condition, such as cancer or diabetes.

    Diarrhea

    • If your cat's food rapidly moves through his intestines, he may get diarrhea. Your veterinarian may recommend that you temporarily change your cat's diet to boiled chicken and rice to treat his condition. If diarrhea is persistent it can be an indication of various conditions. Your cat may have ingested poisonous plants or foreign objects. Other causes of diarrhea can include intestinal parasites, a bacterial, fungal or viral infection, or cancer.

    Weight Loss

    • Weight loss in cats can be associated with stomach and intestinal disorders. If your cat is losing weight he may be suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, food allergies or inflammatory bowel disease. He may have a lack of appetite which causes him to lose weight. Your veterinarian will have to make a diagnosis, because weight loss can also be triggered by other conditions, such as cancer, intestinal parasites and diabetes.

    Abdominal Pain

    • If your cat's stomach suddenly starts hurting, he may start vocalizing and breathing heavily. He may also vomit and have trouble finding a comfortable position, because any pressure on his stomach is extremely painful. If this condition isn't detected early on, your cat may go into shock. A painful abdomen can be an indication of various conditions, such as a rupture of the stomach or bladder, a urinary tract obstruction, poisoning or an intestinal obstruction.