It might be so upsetting to know that your cat is experiencing some digestive problems. However, not knowing what to do about it is a more upsetting. Moreover, the digestive problems in cats are one of the most common reasons why cats are brought to the vets. Further, there are a lot of reasons why cats may have digestive conditions. Read on through this article and learn more!
Digestive Problems in Cats: What are these?
Whatever conditions that reduces the absorption and the digestion of food, or changes the passage through the digestive system, may be called digestive problems in cats. Furthermore, the GI or gastrointestinal disorder may affect the intestines and stomach of a cat. This may result in pain, as well as some other conditions. Moreover, the proficient digestion is important for the cat, in order to build, as well as repair the tissues and get hold of the energy.
Moreover, the digestive problems in cats are a bit common. Further, most of them clear up within just a few days. However, there are some cats that need a long-term management as they have permanent or regular digestive conditions. In addition, the gastrointestinal disorders may lead to electrolyte and acid-base imbalances, malnutrition, as well as dehydration. Therefore, it is so important to recognize the signs, as well as consult with your trusted vet.
Types and Causes of Digestive Disorders in Cats
In the actual fact, there are a lot of digestive problems in cats. Moreover, the causes of these may range from eating something other than cat food. Up to the intolerance or sensitivities, lack of digestive enzymes, as well as infection. Furthermore, some breeds of cat, like the Ragdoll, Rex, and Sphynx, are way more prone to certain digestive conditions. Your vet might carry out some examinations. This is in order to determine the real cause of the gastrointestinal problem of a cat.
Moreover, some of the most commonly diagnosed digestive problems in cats include:
Small intestinal malabsorption.
This is the inflammation of the small intestine. Further, this impairs the nutrient absorption and may result in loss of appetite, weight loss, as well as persistent diarrhea in cats.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.
This particular conditions is often characterized by the sudden weight loss, large number of soft feces, and increase in the appetite. Moreover, the chronic pancreatitis is actually the most common cause.
Irritable bowel syndrome.
This is commonly in association with the discomfort and inflammation of the bowel of a cat. However, it is usually not directly in connection to gastrointestinal conditions. Moreover, there are some who suspect that the causes of it include the capability of a cat food to pass through the GI tract effectively, as well as the food intolerances. Furthermore, the mental distress may also be a funding factor for his particular condition.
Pancreatitis.
An infection or inflammation of the pancreas. Furthermore, the origin of this particular conditions is not known yet. Moreover, the possible causes are the reduced blood flow because of dehydration, or disease processes, trauma, disease, or infections.
Constipation.
Commonly, this is caused by dehydration, ingesting hair and some other foreign entities, or inadequate intake of fiber. Furthermore, it may also be due to the lack of exercise, debilitation, endocrine or metabolic conditions, large bowel nervous conditions, spinal cord condition, fractures or trauma, tumors, as well as aging.
Diarrhea.
This is due to stress, internal parasites, infections, a change in the cat food, eating spoiled foods, among others.
Colitis.
This is more common in cats under 5 years old. Further, the colitis causes an inflammation of the large intestine, which may result in the painful, frequent passing of feces. When your cat is experiencing this condition, it might contain blood or mucus. Most often than not, colitis is due to polyps or tumors, allergies, as well as various conditions.
Acute gastroenteritis.
This is a swollen digestive tract, commonly short term. Moreover, the causes of it may include spoiled food, eating toxic plant, stress, as well as diseases, among others.
How to know if your cat has digestive condition?
The most common among all the signs of digestive problems in cats are diarrhea and soft stools. Furthermore, you might also notice all or some of the following signs and symptoms:
- Constipation,
- Diarrhea,
- Weakness,
- Flatulence,
- Regurgitation, as well as
- Vomiting.
Moreover, the chronic gastrointestinal condition may be so debilitating for so many cats. Further, it requires a thorough and in-depth diagnosis from a professional.
The importance of nutrition in cats
The food your cat is eating actually have a very significant impact on its gastrointestinal tract health. So many nutritional approaches might be recommended for the cat. Further, this varies on the certain diagnosis, as well as the symptoms. Additionally, the major goal is the alleviation of the signs and symptoms of the cat of diarrhea and/or vomiting. Moreover, veterinarians actually suggest that cats with this particular conditions must eat foods that are highly digestible. This is in order to prevent the irritation to its intestines and sensitive stomach. In addition, insoluble and high soluble fiber foods, in combination with the moderate fat levels are beneficial in supporting the proper intestinal function. Furthermore, it is important as well to monitor the cat’s hydration. Further, this is during the recovery stage, to ensure that it has sufficient water and proper fluid deficiency.
Due to some of the aforementioned gastrointestinal problems being ongoing, the longstanding management of the conditions may be necessary. For a more accurate prognosis and treatment options, always check on your vet. As well as ask to suggest the best digestive health food for your cat.
