Malabsorption in cats occurs when the gastrointestinal tract does not absorb one or more nutrients properly due to a disruption in the normal digestive process. Malabsorption can be serious, but there's no reason to panic. It's often treated with dietary modifications.
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Fecal Matter
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Most malabsorption symptoms can be discovered by taking a look at your cat's fecal matter. If your cat has increased the number of times they go to the bathroom a day, or has soft stool, watery diarrhea, greasy stool, or bits of undigested food in his feces, malabsorption may be an issue.
Weight Loss
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Due to the lack of nutrients being absorbed, cats with malabsorption problems may begin to show a noted loss of weight.
Gas
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Cats with malabsorption issues often have gas problems. An increase in flatulence and gassy rumblings in the tummy can be signs of malnutrition, and be sure to watch for abdominal pain, as this may be a sign of increased gas in the intestines.
Appetite Changes
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Because of the increase in gas and other problems, your cat's appetite may change. It is more common for cats to experience a decrease in appetite, although an increase is sometimes noted.
Vomiting
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If the malabsorption problem is occurring in the stomach, it is not uncommon for cats to vomit. If you cat is vomiting frequently after meals, malabsorption may be a problem.
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