Stomach Upsets in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Stomach upsets in cats can be caused by various conditions and are a common reason for vet visits across the UK. While often not serious, digestive problems may distress both cats and their owners. This guide helps you recognise symptoms of an upset stomach, understand causes, and learn appropriate responses to keep your cat comfortable and healthy.

Recognising Stomach Upsets in Your Cat

Indoor cats using a litter tray often reveal diarrhoea or other signs quickly. However, outdoor cats may hide symptoms longer. Look for signs such as persistent vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, excessive drooling, lip licking (a nausea sign), lethargy, or hiding. Note any unusual stool consistency or presence of blood. If your cat exhibits these symptoms repeatedly or shows marked changes in behaviour, consult your vet promptly. Logging symptoms, duration, and any dietary or environmental changes will aid diagnosis.

7 Common Causes of Vomiting and Diarrhoea in Cats

1. Diet Changes and Food Sensitivities

Sudden diet changes can upset your cat’s digestion. Introduce new foods gradually over a week to avoid reactions. Treats or rich foods may cause vomiting in sensitive cats. Avoid feeding human foods, especially those toxic to cats, such as onions, garlic, or lilies. Maintaining a consistent, balanced diet supports digestive health.

2. Infections and Parasites

Bacterial infections like Salmonella and Campylobacter can cause diarrhoea. Intestinal parasites such as worms or protozoa inflame the gut causing chronic digestive upset. Regular worming and flea control as recommended by your vet help prevent these issues.

3. Ingested Foreign Bodies

Cats occasionally swallow objects such as bones, string, or household items. These may cause obstruction leading to severe vomiting and require urgent veterinary attention. Prevent access to small or sharp objects if possible.

4. Inflammatory Diseases: Triaditis and IBD

Triaditis is a combination of inflammation affecting the liver, pancreas, and intestines. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) causes chronic vomiting and diarrhoea. Both conditions may need veterinary diagnosis via blood tests and imaging, and treatment often involves anti-inflammatory medications and special diets.

5. Cancer

Lymphoma and other tumours can infiltrate the intestines causing partial blockages and digestive symptoms. Early veterinary evaluation is essential if symptoms persist despite initial treatment.

6. Stress and Environmental Factors

Stress or anxiety can lead to stomach upset in cats. Changes such as moving home, new pets, or unfamiliar visitors can affect their digestion. Providing a calm environment and regular routines helps reduce stress-related symptoms.

7. Other Medical Conditions

Underlying diseases such as kidney or liver disease, pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes may cause vomiting and diarrhoea. Your vet may suggest tests to rule out these causes if symptoms are persistent.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your vet will gather history and perform a physical exam, possibly recommending faecal tests for parasites, blood tests, X-rays, ultrasound, or endoscopy to detect foreign bodies, infections, or tumours.

Treatment often begins conservatively with fluids to prevent dehydration, anti-nausea medication, and an easily digestible diet fed little and often. Some cats may need specific medications or special diets prescribed by the vet. Regular monitoring and follow-up are important to ensure resolution.

When to See Your Vet Immediately

If your cat vomits repeatedly, shows signs of dehydration, passes blood, refuses all food and water, or appears very unwell, seek veterinary care promptly. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications.

Conclusion – Caring for Your Cat’s Digestive Health

While many stomach upsets in cats are minor and self-resolving, they should never be ignored. Observing symptoms carefully, maintaining a consistent, high-quality diet, and working closely with your vet helps keep your cat happy and healthy. Responsible pet ownership includes timely veterinary assessment to diagnose and treat causes appropriately, safeguarding your beloved companion’s wellbeing.