Why Do Kittens Get Diarrhea? 

What To Do And How To Help Them

by Carrie Profenno: Author, lifelong Mainer & veteran Maine Coon owner

Why do kittens get diarrhea? When we first introduced our kittens to our home, we set them up in the laundry room with all their bedding, food and water, and litter boxes. They settled in nicely.

"Help! My Kitten Has Diarrhea!"

I soon found out that diarrhea in kittens certainly happens.

They were perfect in their use of the litter box, but it was still a mess.

Let's just say that Alice and Leo became accustomed to getting bathed at a very young age!

Why Do Kittens Get Diarrhea?

Welcoming a new kitten into your home is such an exciting time, but it can also come with concerns.

One common issue that many new cat owners face is diarrhea. Loose stools can be worrying, but knowing when to act and how to help your furry friend can make all the difference.

Understanding Kitten Diarrhea

I was worried about the causes of diarrhea in my new kittens, and I immediately called our family veterinarian. He quickly put my mind at ease.

Common Concerns of New Cat Parents

For those new to kitten care, dealing with diarrhea can be especially daunting. Questions like, "Why do kittens get diarrhea?" and "When should I call the vet?" are common. 

It's natural to worry about the health of your little one, especially when they're experiencing loose stools.

Let's talk about these concerns, along with when to call your vet and what you can do at home to support your kitten's recovery.

You can feel confident in managing this common issue!

What Is Cat Diarrhea?

Diarrhea in young kittens can be pretty distressing for any pet parent. Simply put, cat diarrhea involves frequent, loose, or watery stools.

When a kitty's digestive system is upset, it results in soft stools that can vary in color and consistency.

Understanding why your feline friend experiences these issues is the first step in helping them feel better.

How Common Is Kitten Diarrhea?

Normal vs. Abnormal Stool Consistency

When it comes to your kitten's stool, it's helpful to know what's normal and what's not. Healthy stools are usually firm and well-formed.

In contrast, soft stools or those with an unusual color or odor can signal a problem.

Monitoring the consistency of your kitty's stool can provide valuable clues about their overall health. If you notice persistent changes or other symptoms, it might be time to consult your vet.

Recognizing these signs early on ensures your young feline gets the care they need.

Common Causes of Kitten Diarrhea

Dietary Changes

Why do kittens get diarrhea? One of the most common causes is a sudden change in diet.

Switching to a new food can upset their delicate digestive system. It's important to introduce new food gradually to avoid tummy troubles.

Whether it’s a shift to a different brand or type of food, a slow transition helps their stomachs adjust.

Food Allergies or Intolerances

Just like humans, some kittens can have food allergies or intolerances.

Certain ingredients might not agree with your kitty’s system, leading to soft stools or other signs of illness.

If you notice a pattern after feeding specific foods, it might be time to consult your vet about possible food allergies.

Parasites

Intestinal parasites, such as worms and Giardia, are another culprit behind kitten diarrhea. These pesky invaders can cause significant digestive upset. [1]

Regular deworming and vet check-ups can help keep these internal parasites at bay and ensure your feline friend stays healthy.

Bacterial or Viral Infections

Infections, whether bacterial infections or viral infections, can wreak havoc on a young kitten's digestive system.

Common bacterial infections include Salmonella and Campylobacter, while viral infections like feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) can also cause diarrhea.

If your kitty is showing signs of illness, such as lethargy or loss of appetite, it’s essential to seek veterinary care.

Stress and Environmental Changes

Moving to a new home or experiencing significant changes in their environment can be stressful for kittens.

This stress can manifest as diarrhea. The anxiety of adjusting to new surroundings, meeting new people or pets, and other changes can upset their digestive system.

It's likely that your kitten’s upset stomach is related to these environmental changes rather than an underlying health issue.

Overeating or Sudden Diet Changes

Kittens have a tendency to overeat, especially when they find food they like.

This dietary indiscretion can lead to diarrhea. Additionally, sudden diet changes can shock their system.

Feeding your kitty smaller, more frequent meals can help avoid these problems.

Ingestion of Foreign Objects or Toxins

Kittens are curious creatures and often chew on things they shouldn't. Ingesting foreign objects or toxins can cause digestive upset.

Keep an eye on what your kitty is getting into and kitten-proof your home to prevent accidental ingestion of harmful items.

Underlying Health Conditions 

Although less common, some kittens may have underlying health conditions that contribute to diarrhea.

Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other chronic illnesses can cause persistent digestive issues.

If dietary changes and stress management don’t seem to help, it's worth discussing these possibilities with your vet.

When to Call the Vet

Signs That Indicate a Serious Issue

It's natural to worry when your young kitten has GI upset, but how do you know when it's time to call the vet?

Look out for signs of severe diarrhea, such as blood in the stool, persistent vomiting, lethargy, and dehydration.

These symptoms can indicate a more serious issue that needs professional attention.

Duration of Diarrhea and When to Worry

While mild cases of diarrhea can resolve on their own, if your kitty's loose stools last more than a couple of days, it's time to consult your vet.

Chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other health complications, so keeping an eye on the duration is essential.

Symptoms Accompanying Diarrhea

In addition to loose stools, other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and significant weight loss should prompt a vet visit.

These can indicate more severe underlying issues and require a professional to evaluate your kitten's overall health.

Age and Health Status Considerations

Professional Diagnosis and Treatment

A vet can perform tests, such as blood work, to determine the cause of your kitten's GI upset. He or she may request a stool sample.

Depending on the diagnosis, your vet might prescribe anti-diarrheal medications, probiotics, or other treatments to help your feline friend recover.

In some cases, dietary changes or specific treatments for underlying conditions might be necessary.

Professional guidance ensures your kitty gets the right care and avoids potential complications.

At-Home Treatments and Care

Dietary Adjustments

When your young kitty is dealing with GI upset, making some dietary adjustments can be a good idea.

Offering a bland diet can help soothe their tummy. If you’re changing their food, do it gradually over several days to avoid further upsetting their stomach.

Transitioning slowly between kitten milk replacer and solid food or between different brands of wet food can also help.

Hydration and Electrolyte Balance

Keeping your feline friend hydrated is essential, especially if they're experiencing loose stools.

Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times. In some cases, you might need to offer an electrolyte solution designed for pets to help maintain their hydration levels.

If your kitty isn't drinking enough, consult your vet for additional advice.

Probiotics and Supplements

Adding probiotics to your kitty's diet can help restore the balance of good bacteria in their gut.

These supplements can support their digestive health and aid in recovery.

Consult your vet for recommendations on the best probiotics and other supplements for your kitten's specific needs.

Importance of Cleanliness and Hygiene

Monitoring and Recording Symptoms

Keeping track of your kitten’s symptoms can provide valuable information for both you and your vet.

Note any changes in their stool consistency, appetite, behavior, and overall health.

Monitoring their progress helps you determine if the at-home treatments are working or if it’s time to seek veterinary advice.

Preventing Kitten Diarrhea

Proper Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is key to keeping your young kitty healthy. Stick to high-quality kitten food that's specifically formulated for their nutritional needs.

Avoid giving them dairy products or human food, as these can upset their digestive tract. A well-fed kitty is less likely to have issues with their GI tract.

Gradual Transitions Between Foods

If you need to change your feline friend's diet, do it slowly. Gradual transitions between foods help their digestive system adjust without causing GI upset.

Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food, gradually increasing the new food over a week or more.

Regular Vet Check-Ups and Vaccinations

Regular vet visits are a must for keeping your kitten in tip-top shape. Routine check-ups can catch potential issues early and keep your kitty up-to-date on vaccinations.

These preventative measures are essential in addressing why kittens get diarrhea and other health concerns before they become serious.

Parasite Prevention and Treatment

Intestinal parasites are a common cause of digestive issues in young kittens.

Regular deworming and preventative treatments can help keep these pests at bay.

Your vet can recommend the best parasite prevention plan for your furry friend.

Stress Reduction Techniques

Stress can wreak havoc on a kitty's digestive tract. To minimize stress, create a calm and stable environment for your new pet.

Gradually introduce them to new people, pets, and environments to help them feel secure.

Providing plenty of playtime and affection can also reduce stress levels and promote a healthy digestive system.

Why Do Kittens Get Diarrhea? FAQs:

Understanding why kittens get diarrhea and knowing when to seek help ensures your feline friend stays healthy and happy.

If you’re ever in doubt, a quick call to your vet can provide peace of mind and the right care for your kitty.

Recap:

Why do kittens get diarrhea? Common causes include dietary changes, stress, parasites, and infections.

While mild cases often resolve quickly, persistent or severe symptoms require veterinary attention.

Gradual food transitions, maintaining hydration, and keeping a clean environment are vital steps in managing and preventing digestive issues.

Seek Veterinary Advice When in Doubt

When in doubt, don't hesitate to seek veterinary advice. Your vet can provide accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatments to ensure your kitten's health.

If you’re ever unsure why your furry friend is experiencing digestive troubles, a quick call to your vet can make all the difference. Your kitty deserves the best care, and professional guidance is always a wise choice.

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Disclaimer
Please remember that the information provided in this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, every cat is unique, and individual health conditions may vary. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for professional medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment specific to your cat's health and well-being.

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Reference: Diarrhea in kittens and Young cats - WSAVA2011 - VIN. (n.d.). https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=11343&catId=34567&id=5124223

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