Cat Diarrhea: Causes, When to Worry, and When to Seek Care

Diarrhea in cats is a common issue and can range from mild and short-lived to a sign of a more serious underlying condition. While some cases resolve on their own, others require prompt veterinary attention.

Knowing what to watch for can help you determine when it’s time to seek care for your cat.

Common Causes of Diarrhea in Cats

Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which involve irritation or inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Common causes include:

• Dietary indiscretion (eating something unusual or spoiled)
• Sudden diet changes
• Food intolerance or allergies
• Intestinal parasites
• Bacterial or viral infections
• Stress or environmental changes
• Toxin ingestion
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Pancreatitis

Some cases are mild and self-limiting, while others may worsen without treatment.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Not all diarrhea is an emergency, but certain signs indicate your cat should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

You should seek care if your cat:

• Has diarrhea lasting more than 24–48 hours
• Is having frequent or large amounts of diarrhea
• Has blood in the stool
• Is also vomiting
• Appears lethargic or weak
• Is not eating or drinking
• Shows signs of dehydration
• Is a kitten, senior cat, or has underlying health conditions

If your cat’s symptoms are worsening or persistent, prompt care is recommended.

How We Diagnose Diarrhea in Cats

At Nexus Veterinary Urgent Care, we focus on identifying the underlying cause so we can treat the issue effectively.

Diagnostics may include:

• Fecal testing to check for parasites
• Bloodwork to evaluate organ function and hydration
• X-rays if obstruction or foreign material is a concern
• AFAST/TFAST ultrasound scan for further evaluation
• Additional testing depending on symptoms

Our goal is to determine whether the diarrhea is mild or related to a more serious condition.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause, severity, and overall health of your cat.

Common treatments may include:

• Fluid therapy to correct dehydration
• Medications to support the gastrointestinal tract
• Probiotics to support gut health
• Deworming if parasites are suspected or confirmed
• Dietary recommendations (bland or prescription diets)
• Antibiotics in select cases

More severe cases may require hospitalization and supportive care.

When in Doubt, Give Us a Call

We provide same-day urgent care to help your pet get the care they need as soon as possible in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk. Visit us at 1124 Lynnhaven Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 or call us at 757-974-8111.