Digestive issues in cats are common and most pet parents think it’s normal. However, if your cat is vomiting or having trouble passing stool, there is trouble brewing and it needs to be checked by a vet. At Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital in Duarte, CA, we are experienced in treating gastrointestinal issues in cats. Here are the common cat digestive issues we encounter in our animal hospital.
Intestinal Worms
Intestinal parasites are a common problem, even for indoor cats. Unfortunately, your cat may be worm-infested and won’t show any symptoms. However, you may notice the following symptoms that indicate the presence of intestinal worms:
- Loss of weight
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Potbelly
- Worms in the feces
Intestinal worms aren’t only unsightly but can be passed from animals to humans. As such, your pet should be tested once or twice per year to rule out worms.
Constipation
Like humans, cats can be constipated, too. Once in a while, your kitty may be constipated, but if the condition is recurrent, it could indicate a serious condition.
The common causes of constipation include dehydration, poor diet, pain, and muscle movement problems in the colon. Your veterinarian may treat constipation by recommending exercise, intake of fluids, substituting dry food with canned, and weight management.
Hairballs
Your cat may swallow hair during grooming. While this may be passed along with feces, sometimes it remains in the stomach forming a hairball. If your kitty vomits the hairball, you don’t need to see a vet. However, if it becomes a common occurrence, consult with your vet on a high-fiber diet to avoid the formation of hairballs in the stomach.
Food Allergies
Your cat may react to certain ingredients in food, resulting in diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and skin signs. Our vet will work with you to identify foods triggering allergies in your cat.
Veterinary Services Near Me
Are cat stomach problems causing your pet an uneasy time in Duarte or Azusa, CA? Please book an appointment with Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital for proper vet care by calling (626) 357-2251. We will diagnose and treat your pet so it can lead a healthy life.