Gastrointestinal Issues in cats
The digestive tract is responsible for helping your cat digest and absorbs food, so if they have a gastrointestinal problem, it prevents the food from passing, being absorbed and digested properly. Cat stomach problems, such as a gastrointestinal (GI) disorder can affect your cat’s stomach as well as their intestines, which can cause significant pain and other health issues. It is important to make sure your cat is eating and digesting the proper foods for their health and wellbeing. In most situations, a GI problem can correct itself, but if the issue is chronic, your cat should be seen by a veterinarian in Summerfield as soon as possible to determine the cause and recommend treatment.
Signs Your Cat May Have Gastrointestinal Problems
If your cat is experiencing gastrointestinal problems, they may show their pain through meowing, crouching, and arching their back or whining. Symptoms of a GI problem can vary depending on the cause and your individual cat, but the most common signs of a GI problem generally include:
Drooling
Regurgitation or vomiting
Dry coat
Weight loss
Change in thirst or appetite
Constipation or diarrhea
If the symptoms worsen or last longer than a few days, it’s important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Delaying treatment may lead to infection, dehydration, and possible injury to the kidneys or liver.
There are a number of different types of gastrointestinal problems in cats, including constipation and diarrhea, which are the most common. The good news is, your veterinarian can recommend natural supplements and home remedies to help ease these types of problems. It’s important to keep in mind that acute gastroenteritis generally means your cat has an upset stomach or a short term digestive problem. However, a chronic problem means the symptoms are getting worse, or they last longer than 24 hours. In this situation, contact your vet to schedule an exam to determine the cause and recommend treatment.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
If you suspect your cat may be suffering from a gastrointestinal problem, contact The Animal Hospital at Lake Brandt in Summerfield. You can call us at (336) 252-2208 to schedule an appointment today!