Diet Recommendations for Cats With Diarrhea & Parasites

Cats with digestive system issues may have special dietary considerations until they are well. Diarrhea and parasites are two health concerns that commonly affect felines. Though diarrhea can have many causes, several types of parasites often result in diarrhea until they are treated and eliminated. During the treatment process, cats benefit from diets that are gentle on their healing digestive systems.

  1. Diagnosis

    • Cats are prone to digestive disturbances that cause diarrhea, many of which can improve with special food or a low-fat diet. However, it is vital to get a proper diagnosis from your veterinarian before you try different foods. Your feline may be suffering from worm parasites, such as roundworms, tapeworms, whipworms or hookworms, or protozoan parasites, such as coccidia or giardia, which must be treated with proper medication in addition to dietary changes. If your cat is free of parasites, he may be suffering from health problems such as colitis, stomach irritation or food allergies, which may also require medication along with proper diet.

    Fasting Period

    • Once your veterinarian has evaluated your cat and given any necessary medications, he may recommend that you allow your cat's digestive system time to calm down and heal. One method is to initiate a 24-hour fast, with your cat frequently ingesting small amounts of water but no food. Continue to give your pet any prescribed medications and contact your veterinarian immediately if the diarrhea worsens or vomiting occurs.

    Bland Diet

    • Your veterinarian may recommend a specific type or brand of cat food for your feline to keep his digestive system regular. Feeding your cat a bland diet during treatment for diarrhea or parasites may help his system heal until he is back on a diet of cat food. Boiled chicken mixed with white rice is recommended because it is low in fat yet high in the protein that your cat needs to maintain his health while he is on the mend. Check with your vet before embarking on a new feeding plan.

    Healthful Diet

    • As your cat's system gets back to normal with proper medication and a bland diet, a gradual transition to regular cat food will help keep his system on an even keel. After feeding your feline cooked chicken and rice for at least three days, you can begin the transition by gradually mixing it with the cat food your veterinarian recommended. Once your cat is back on his regular diet, you can switch back to chicken and rice if his symptoms recur. Keep in mind that rich foods such as eggs and cheese, table scraps and low-quality cat foods may cause your pet to have diarrhea again if he has a sensitive stomach. Do not hesitate to take your cat back to the veterinarian if symptoms persist.