I got my cat about three weeks ago from the SPCA. I fell inlove with him. When I first brought him home he was on Iams. That's what the shelter gave me, because that is what he was on. He was on that for about 2 weeks. I bought him Felidae about a week ago, and I poured some Felidae in what I had left of my Iams and mixed it up. He was neutered the first week I had him, and has done very well, but here's my problem. He has very loose stools, usually about twice a day. He never had them before I switched his food, but I would really like to put him on Felidae. I called my vet and we have an appointment for Friday, he also has to get his rabies shot then. He acts perfectly normal, plays, runs, cuddles, and isn't acting ill in any other way, and he still uses the litterbox. Anyone have any idea what it could be? Also, I think he may be bleeding, there is no blood in his stools, but there appears to be some around his anus, then again, I can't be sure. Any help?
2007-01-23 01:07:32 · 6 answers · asked by Carrie 2 in Pets ➔ Cats
He has not had milk, I am already aware what that does to a cat. He also is healthy is every other way, no nasal discharge, or runny/watery eyes. My vet told me not to switch his food because it could irritate him more, she wants to see him first. But thanks for the suggestions
2007-01-23 01:35:28 · update #1
Also, he's not a kitten. He's a young cat, close to 12 months old.
2007-01-23 02:06:39 · update #2
Hi Carrie...when food is suddenly changed it causes bowel distresses as it disturbs the healthy bacteria in the intestinal tract and the end result is diarrhoea. Food should be gradually changed over time in order to minimize bowel disturbances. Diarrhoea can also make the anal tissue more tender which is possibly why you are seeing a little hint of blood as well. See the following article to learn how to switch foods: http://www.peteducation.com:80/article.cfm?cls=0&cat=1276&articleid=1155
Intestinal parasites can contribute to loose stools as well as blood. Consider bringing the freshest sample of fecal matter so your vet can also evaluate for worms.
2007-01-23 01:19:00 · answer #1 · answered by ♪ Seattle ♫ 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
If he has any discharge from his eyes or nose, call your vet, as it could be an infection.
As far as blood, that is probably from excess runny stools and the irritation it is bringing him. Food changes should take place over a week span, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the amount of the old food everyday. If an diarrhea is being caused because of the food change, it shouldn't last more than 3-5 days.
I'm assuming he was checked for intestinal parasites and flukes? And if so, treated? Is he on any medication that may be causing the loose stools? Are you giving milk? Contrary to popular belief, cats should not have milk.
The food you have switched to sounds like an excellent food. Keep up with that and he should have a healthy life, along with the neutering and vaccines! Good job on great pet care!!
Hope he feels better soon!
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2007-01-23 01:19:04 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It sounds like you tried to change the food to quickly or it's possible that the new food just does not agree with him.
Also runny/bloody stools can be a sign of worms.
Make sure that the Vet checks for worms on Friday...and if he should show any signs of distress take him in sooner.
Good luck with your new kitten
2007-01-23 01:53:36 · answer #3 · answered by gracieandlizzie 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There must be something in the cat food that is making his stomach upset. If I was you I would try another cat food that you like. The blood could be from his bottom being raw from all the diarrhea. That has happened to a new cat I had got and had to change to Meow Mix Cat Food.
2007-01-23 01:21:44 · answer #4 · answered by Bigdaddy 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you have given the kitty milk it could cause that. They love milk but their systems can not handle pasteurized products. Getting the kitty to the vet is the smart thing to do. And congratulations on the new addition to your family, especially for adopting one from the SPCA.
2007-01-23 01:18:02 · answer #5 · answered by Spirit 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Stress can cause coccidia and coccidia can cause diarrhea. The vet will need to give you meds for this so take the kitty to the vet ASAP.
In the meantime you can get some Pedialyte (for babies) and put it in his food and water. This will help keep the kitty from getting dehydrated.
2007-01-23 01:35:27 · answer #6 · answered by kathyk214 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋