Kitten Diarrhea

What Causes Diarrhea in Kittens and How Can You Treat It?

Mar 9, 2010
Michelle Taylor

Kitten Diarrhea - Not for this Kitten! - EdgarsStrods

Kitten diarrhea can make for a messy problem. Learn what the reasons are behind diarrhea in kittens and what owners can do to alleviate their kittens upset stomach.

There is no doubt about it. Kitten diarrhea can be a mucky situation. Diarrhea in kittens is more likely to be a minor ailment than something serious. Diarrhea when accompanied with other medical symptoms is cause for concern. It is advised that kittens which have had diarrhea for over 24 hours should see the veterinarian.

Diarrhea means that food has gone through a kitten's small and large intestines without being properly digested. Just like in humans, a kitten with diarrhea may feel unwell.

Causes of Kitten Diarrhea

There are many reasons a kitten may be experiencing the runs. Here are some of the common causes:

Kitten has parasites. This could be tapeworm, roundworm, giardia, coccidia, hookworm. If these are not treated a kitten may experience stunted growth and diarrhea.
Abrupt change in diet. A kitten who has been changed from one brand of kitten food to another may react with diarrhea. Gradually change a kitten over to their new brand of food.
Poisons. Kittens sometimes get into mischief including ingesting household cleaners. Many house plants are also poisonous and can cause diarrhea in kittens.
Human food. Kittens are not built to consume human food. This includes lactose products like milk and cream. These foods can cause a kitten to experience an upset stomach.
Kitten ate something that didn't agree with their stomach. In a case like this, the only concern is that the kitten drinks enough water.

Natural Remedies for Mild Diarrhea in Kittens

Mild cases of diarrhea in kittens can be treated at home. If an owner is worried or concerned over their kittens well being – they should ring their veterinarian.

Give a kitten fiber. A bit of fiber will make a kittens stool firm up and stop being so runny.
Plenty of water. A kitten with the runs is in danger of dehydrating if they don't get enough water. A responsible owner will ensure their kitten has access to plenty of fresh water.
24 hour fast. This gives a kittens digestive system a rest. A kitten on a food fast still needs water. Owners are advised to ring their vet before putting their kitten on a food fast.

When a Kitten Needs to be Checked by a Veterinarian

The biggest danger to a kitten with diarrhea is dehydration. This can be prevented by an owner making sure their kitten has plenty of fresh water available. There are a few more serious reasons a kitten may be experiencing diarrhea, these are best taken to a veterinarian.

If a kitten has had diarrhea for over 24 hours it is recommended for the owner to contact their vet.
A kitten displaying other symptoms such as vomiting or difficulty walking in addition to diarrhea is best examined by their veterinarian.
Blood in kittens stool is a bad sign. Owners are advised to take their kitten to the vet.

Remember kitten diarrhea is actually quite common. It is most often because a kitten ate something that didn't agree with them, not a scary medical reason. Owners should be sensible and contact a veterinarian if they are concerned.