Cats are undoubtedly one of the most charming and endearing pets to have around. They’re playful, snuggly, and sweet, but they can also be picky and delicate creatures. Your furry companion’s stomach can get upset at any time, resulting in vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. As a devoted cat parent, it can be an alarming experience, which is why knowing how to settle your cat’s stomach is essential.
Fortunately, there are several home remedies and over-the-counter medication options available to manage your cat’s upset stomach. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re administering the right treatment. Giving the wrong medication or remedy can worsen the symptoms and even lead to fatal consequences in severe cases.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on how to settle your cat’s stomach as a responsible pet owner. From identifying the causes of an upset stomach in cats to administering suitable medication and home remedies- we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn everything you need to know about handling a cat with an upset stomach like a pro.
So if you want to keep your feline friend happy and healthy while avoiding unnecessary stress for both you and your pet – keep reading. We’ve got all the tips and tricks you need for settling your cat’s tummy troubles quickly and efficiently.
Common Causes of an Upset Stomach in Cats
But before you reach for the nearest remedy, it’s essential to understand the common causes of this discomfort. From dietary changes to infections and parasites, there are several reasons why your cat may experience gastrointestinal distress.
If you’ve recently introduced a new type of food to your cat’s diet, be aware that sudden changes can cause digestive disturbances. To avoid this, introduce new foods gradually, monitoring your cat’s reaction for any signs of vomiting or diarrhea. Additionally, food intolerances or allergies can also lead to gastrointestinal symptoms. Identifying the offending ingredient and removing it from their diet can alleviate their discomfort.
Hairballs are another common cause of an upset stomach in cats. When felines groom themselves, they ingest hair which can accumulate in their stomach and cause irritation. Fortunately, regular grooming and the use of hairball remedies can help prevent hairball-related stomach issues.
Infections and parasites such as viruses, bacteria, roundworms, and hookworms can also cause digestive issues in cats. Regular veterinary check-ups can ensure your cat is free from these issues.
Lastly, stress can also contribute to gastrointestinal upset in cats. Any changes in routine or environment such as moving homes or introducing a new pet can cause anxiety and manifest as vomiting or diarrhea.
Now that you know the common causes of an upset stomach in cats, what steps can you take to settle their stomach? Feeding them a bland diet for a few days consisting of boiled chicken, cooked white rice or plain canned pumpkin can help ease their discomfort. Additionally, probiotics or digestive enzymes can improve the balance of good bacteria in their gut and aid in digestion.
Settling Your Cat’s Stomach with a Bland Diet
Sometimes, our cats can experience digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Settling your cat’s stomach with a bland diet is a popular solution that many cat owners swear by. A bland diet is typically easy to digest and can alleviate digestive issues effectively.
Before starting a bland diet, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing your cat’s gastrointestinal problems. Your veterinarian can also help guide you on the appropriate type and amount of food to feed your cat.
A bland diet for cats usually consists of boiled chicken or turkey, cooked white rice, and boiled or steamed vegetables such as carrots or green beans. It is essential to remove any skin or bones from the chicken or turkey before feeding it to your cat. Additionally, adding a small amount of plain canned pumpkin to the bland diet can provide fiber that can help regulate your cat’s digestive system.
Feeding your cat small meals throughout the day instead of one large meal can prevent overeating and reduce the risk of vomiting. Make sure your cat has access to fresh water at all times.
When introducing a bland diet to your cat, do so gradually over several days. Start by mixing a small amount of the bland diet with your cat’s regular food and gradually increase the amount of bland diet while decreasing the amount of regular food until your cat is solely eating the bland diet.
Using Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes to Settle Your Cat’s Stomach
To begin with, probiotics are live bacteria that can help nourish healthy gut flora in cats. A healthy gut is critical for proper digestion and overall health. When selecting a probiotic, ensure it’s formulated specifically for cats and contains strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which are commonly found in a cat’s gut flora. These strains can help alleviate symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, giving much-needed relief to your furry friend.
In addition to probiotics, digestive enzymes can also aid in digestion and alleviate stomach issues. These enzymes break down food into smaller molecules that the body can absorb more easily. A digestive enzyme supplement containing protease, amylase, and lipase can ensure your cat is getting all the necessary nutrients from their food.
Before giving any new supplements or medications to your cat, consult with your veterinarian. They can advise you on the best course of action for your individual cat’s needs and health history. They may also recommend dietary changes or other treatments to help settle your cat’s stomach.
Remember to follow dosing instructions carefully and introduce new supplements gradually to avoid any adverse reactions. With the help of probiotics and digestive enzymes, you can support a healthy gut for your furry friend and alleviate their tummy troubles in no time.
Feeding Smaller, More Frequent Meals
Luckily, there’s a simple solution that can help – feeding smaller, more frequent meals. Here’s why this method is so effective:
Prevent Overeating:
Cats have a tendency to overeat, which can lead to an upset stomach and even vomiting. Feeding your cat smaller portions throughout the day will help to prevent this issue. It will also ensure that your cat’s stomach doesn’t become too full, which is another common cause of vomiting.
Choose High-Quality Food:
Feeding your cat high-quality, easily digestible food is essential when opting for smaller, more frequent meals. Wet food is an excellent option as it contains more moisture than dry food, keeping your cat hydrated while preventing constipation.
Bedtime Meals:
Feeding your cat smaller meals before bedtime can help prevent hunger or thirst overnight. This can reduce the risk of digestive issues in the morning, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Plus, it can help your cat feel more comfortable and relaxed as they settle in for the night.
Stick to a Routine:
Cats love routine, so it’s important to stick to a feeding schedule that works for both you and your feline friend. Drastically changing their diet or feeding schedule without consulting with a vet can cause more harm than good. Make sure to discuss any changes with your vet first.
Consult with a Vet:
If your cat has a sensitive stomach or underlying health issues, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to their diet or feeding schedule. They may recommend a special diet or feeding plan that is tailored to your cat’s specific needs.
When to See the Vet for an Upset Stomach
Keeping a close eye on your cat’s digestive health is crucial in maintaining their overall well-being. However, not all cases of an upset stomach in cats can be treated at home. Knowing when to seek veterinary care is vital, and here are some guidelines to follow.
- Duration of Symptoms – If your cat has been vomiting or experiencing diarrhea for more than 24 hours, it’s time to seek veterinary care. Prolonged symptoms can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous for cats.
- Other Symptoms – Lethargy, loss of appetite, and dehydration are all concerning signs that your cat’s condition may require medical attention. Keep a close watch on your cat’s behavior and seek veterinary care if these symptoms persist.
- Ingesting something toxic or foreign – Cats are curious creatures and may ingest things they shouldn’t. If you suspect your cat has eaten something toxic or foreign, such as a poisonous plant or a foreign object, seek veterinary care immediately.
- Underlying Health Conditions – Cats with underlying health conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes may be more susceptible to gastrointestinal issues and should be monitored closely. If your cat has a pre-existing condition, consult with your vet about any gastrointestinal issues they may be experiencing.
It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your cat’s health. If you’re unsure about the severity of your cat’s upset stomach or if they are exhibiting concerning symptoms, seek veterinary care. Identifying and addressing gastrointestinal issues early can prevent further health complications down the line.
Medications and Treatments for an Upset Stomach
Fortunately, there are a variety of medications and treatments that can be used to alleviate their discomfort. It’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication or treatment to your cat.
One medication commonly used to treat an upset stomach in cats is Famotidine. This medication works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, which can help ease symptoms such as vomiting and nausea. Although it is available over-the-counter, it’s always best to seek veterinary advice before giving it to your feline friend.
Another medication that can be used is Metoclopramide. This medication helps increase the rate at which the stomach empties, which can significantly improve symptoms such as vomiting and regurgitation. However, it’s essential to remember that Metoclopramide should only be administered under veterinary guidance and not given if your cat has a digestive blockage.
Beyond medications, there are also natural remedies to help soothe your cat’s upset stomach. One of these remedies is canned pumpkin. This high-fiber food can help regulate digestion and be added to your cat’s meals or given as a treat.
Probiotics are another natural remedy that contains good bacteria, which can help regulate your cat’s digestive system. They can be given in the form of supplements or added to your cat’s food. Besides relieving an upset stomach, probiotics also promote healthy gut flora, essential for your cat’s overall well-being.
Tips for Preventing an Upset Stomach in Cats
Choose the Right Food
Choosing the right food for your cat is essential. Not all cats have the same dietary needs, so it’s crucial to select food that meets your cat’s age, health condition, and nutritional requirements. Avoid feeding your cat table scraps or human food, which can cause stomach upset and other digestive problems.
Feed Smaller Meals
Cats have small stomachs, and feeding them smaller meals throughout the day can help prevent stomach upset. Try feeding your cat at least two to three small meals a day instead of one or two large meals. This will also help regulate their appetite.
Slow Down Eating
Eating too quickly can lead to vomiting or other digestive issues. Using a puzzle feeder or slow feeder bowl can help slow down your cat’s eating and prevent stomach upset. This will also stimulate their mind and provide mental stimulation.
Keep the Litter Box Clean
A dirty litter box can cause stress and anxiety in cats, leading to digestive problems. Make sure to clean the litter box regularly to create a comfortable and stress-free environment for your cat. A clean litter box will also encourage healthy bathroom habits.
Provide Plenty of Water
Dehydration can cause digestive issues in cats, so make sure your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times. This will also help prevent constipation. Consider using a water fountain to encourage your cat to drink more water.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise and playtime can aid in maintaining a healthy digestive system in cats. Exercise helps stimulate bowel movements and can prevent constipation. It also helps keep your cat active and mentally stimulated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s essential for cat parents to know how to settle their feline’s upset stomach. When your kitty experiences gastrointestinal distress, there are several remedies available, but it’s crucial to administer the correct treatment. Giving the wrong medication or remedy can worsen symptoms and even lead to fatal consequences in severe cases.
A variety of factors can cause an upset stomach in cats, including dietary changes, food intolerances or allergies, hairballs, infections and parasites, and stress. To soothe your cat’s tummy troubles, try feeding them a bland diet for a few days consisting of boiled chicken, cooked white rice or plain canned pumpkin. Additionally, probiotics or digestive enzymes can improve the balance of good bacteria in their gut and aid in digestion.
Before introducing any new supplements or medications to your cat’s diet, consult with your veterinarian first. They can advise you on the best course of action for your individual cat’s needs and health history. Remember to follow dosing instructions carefully and introduce new supplements gradually to avoid any adverse reactions.
Preventing an upset stomach in cats involves choosing the right food, feeding smaller meals more frequently throughout the day using puzzle feeders or slow feeder bowls. Keeping the litter box clean is also important as well as providing plenty of water access at all times and regular exercise.
