Remedies for Feline Diarrhea

Like humans, cats can occasionally have short bouts of diarrhea. Causes of chronic diarrhea include parasites, a food allergy or intolerance, inflammatory bowel disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, pancreatic insufficiency, liver or kidney disease and some antibiotics and other medications. Both prescription drugs and home remedies safely relieve diarrhea in cats, but remember to contact your veterinarian if the the diarrhea does not stop within a short time. If it lasts more than a few days, diarrhea in cats can cause dehydration and can be a symptom of serious illness.

  1. Deworming

    • Worms, or intestinal parasites, are a common cause of diarrhea in cats. If you suspect that your cat has worms, ask your veterinarian about the proper treatment. Different types of parasites require different medications. Many parasite-removal medications are very inexpensive, so don't let cost stop you from getting your cat treatment.

    Antibiotics

    • Your veterinarian will prescribe an antibiotic if a bacterial infection is causing the cat's diarrhea. If the cat has coccidia or trichomonads, which are tiny protozoans that multiply in the intestines, your vet will use a sulfa antibiotic.

    Loperamide (Imodium)

    • Imodium is a weak narcotic with antidiarrheal properties. Although it's an over-the-counter drug, it should be given to cats only under a veterinarian's supervision. If your cat's diarrhea was caused by a bacterial infection or ingesting a toxin, the cat should not take Imodium.

    Diet Change

    • Often a change in diet is all it takes to clear up a cat's diarrhea. Foods that can cause a sensitivity or allergic reaction resulting in diarrhea in cats include corn, rice, soy, wheat gluten and other grains, artificial colorings and preservatives, dairy products, beef and fish. Read the labels on the bags and cans of food and start eliminating possible allergens, beginning with grains and artificial colorings and preservatives. Cats who are prone to diarrhea usually do best on an all-wet food diet.

    Slippery Elm Bark

    • When mixed with water, slippery elm bark coats, lubricates and soothes the cat's digestive tract. It's also a source of fiber and normalizes the action of the intestines. Health food stores sell slippery elm bark powder and capsules. Ask your veterinarian how much to use.

    Psyllium

    • Psyllium is a source of fiber and helps stop diarrhea by drawing moisture out of the colon and stool. Mix it with water and add it to your cat's wet food. Psyllium can cause intestinal obstruction in cats who are not well hydrated, so be sure to ask your veterinarian about dosages before administering it to your pet.

    Pumpkin

    • Canned pure pumpkin (not pie filling) is another source of fiber and is well tolerated by most cats. Ask your veterinarian how much to use, and mix it with your cat's wet food.

    Probiotics

    • Plain yogurt, which naturally contains probiotics, can help replace the beneficial bacteria in the cat's large intestine and is especially helpful to cats who have diarrhea caused by antibiotics. Probiotics in capsule form can also be found through some veterinarians and independent pet supply stores.