Gas & Diarrhea in Paraplegic Felines

Some cats suffer paralysis of their hind legs after injury to the spinal cord or because of an illness or other condition. Unfortunately, paraplegic cats often lose voluntary control over their digestive systems. This may cause your disabled cat to suffer from gas or diarrhea, and you may have to assist your pet at the litter box. Fortunately, it's possible to take good care of a disabled cat, as long as you have the right information.

  1. Types

    • Cats may suffer from disability in the hind legs for a number of reasons. One of the most common is accidental injury of the spinal cord. If this happens, your vet may choose to amputate the lower parts of the hind legs and tail because of the risk of gangrene. Other conditions can also cause hind limb paralysis, including spina bifida, deformities of the pelvis, and birth defects.

    Significance

    • When a spinal or pelvic problem affects the spinal cord, the bowel and bladder may also be affected. This may cause your cat to lose control of its excretory functions. Some cats will develop a tendency to "leak" fluid waste, while others will be unable to use the litter box correctly. This can put a lot of stress both on the cat, which dislikes being dirty, and the owner, due to messes in the house.

    Solution

    • Owners can learn to manually express their cats' waste, and can use commercial products to control incontinence. Cat diapers, originally made to prevent stud cats from spraying indoors, can be used to keep incontinent cats from making a mess. All paraplegic cats will need washable bedding. Diarrhea and gas can be reduced by feeding a lower fiber diet high in protein and fat. Consider confining an incontinent cat with diarrhea symptoms to its own small room. Line the floor with newspaper or litter, and clean it regularly.

    Warning

    • Diarrhea is a symptom of many conditions and may signal that something is wrong with your cat. Inflammatory bowel disease, lactose intolerance, hyperthyroidism and other conditions may all cause gas and loose stools. If your cat shows these symptoms, have it checked by your vet. The problem may be bigger than simple lack of motor function. Your vet may prescribe drugs or a special diet to reduce symptoms.

    Mobility

    • Paraplegic cats can regain much of their freedom of movement using mobility carts. These were originally developed for paralyzed dogs, but come in sizes appropriate for cats. The cat's hind legs and tail are supported by the cart, allowing it to walk and run. Unfortunately, the cat still can't control its elimination and may dirty the cart. If your cat has elimination problems and suffers from diarrhea, choose a cart that's easy to clean.