How to Control Cat Diarrhea

Diarrhea is an uncomfortable and frustrating problem for anyone, cats and humans alike. While many think of diarrhea as loose, fluid-like stools, the peteducation.com broadens that definition to include increased frequency and amount of bowel movements. Thankfully, there are some steps that can be taken in the home to help ease this problem for both you and your cat.

Things You'll Need

  • Medicine dropper
  • Plain yogurt
  • Psyllium husk
  • Loperamide medication
Show More

Instructions

  1. To Feed or Not to Feed?

    • 1

      Remove your cat's food for a period of 12 to 24 hours. Make sure that your friend has access to water during that time, as your cat may become dehydrated from losing so much fluid through diarrhea. If your cat does not seem interested in drinking, you may administer water with a medicine dropper. Pedialyte can also help restore your pet's system to normal in the event of dehydration.

    • 2

      Review the foods your cat has consumed within the past 24 hours. Even simple changes, such as introducing a new flavor of food, can be enough to send your cat's digestive system into a tailspin. Also consider the amount of food your cat has consumed, as overeating may have caused the loose stools.

    • 3

      Slowly introduce a bland diet to your cat. Foods such as boiled chicken, rice and even baby food can be used to gently reintroduce food to your cat in small portions. Once the cat seems to be handling these foods well, gradually integrate your cat's typical food into the mix, until they are fully weaned back onto their typical diet.

    Home Remedies

    • 4

      Feed your cat 1/4 tsp. of plain yogurt. Yogurt can help to restore your cat's digestive tract to its normal level of function and put an end to the diarrhea.

    • 5

      Mix a psyllium fiber product into your cat's wet food or water. This fiber will help to bulk up the stool over time, so that it keeps its shape and is less messy. Check with your vet for the proper dosage and frequency.

    • 6

      Give your cat a loperamide diarrhea medication using a medicine dropper for a relatively quick relief of diarrhea. Check with your vet for the proper dosage and frequency, as it will differ based on your pet's weight and symptoms.