Cat diarrhea and constipation in cats can often be treated easily and inexpensively with unsweetened canned pumpkin. The dietary fiber in the pumpkin is a good treatment for cat diarrhea as well as a good stool softener for cats with constipation.
Causes of Cat Diarrhea and Constipation in Cats
The causes of feline diarrhea are many, and the severity of cat diarrhea varies. Mild reasons for diarrhea in cats include stomach upset, food allergies, and stress. More moderate and serious causes include parasites and cancer. Fortunately, most cases of cat diarrhea are uncomplicated, and most kitties recover quickly.
The causes of cat constipation and the severity of the problem vary as well. Poor diet, dehydration, and hairballs can lead to cat bowel problems. In older cats, inactivity and obesity are sometimes the issue. Tumors and other health issues can cause feline constipation as well. A cat may even become constipated if the litter box is dirty and he or she decides not to use it.
Feline Diarrhea, Cat Constipation Signs and Treatment with Pumpkin
When a cat has diarrhea, the kitty’s poop is very soft or watery. It is best to first take the cat’s food away for 24 hours to allow the cat’s intestines time to rest. Make sure the cat has fresh, clean water available at all times. A fast alone can often solve the cat diarrhea problem.
If taking the cat’s food away does not fix the diarrhea, try giving the kitty a half to full teaspoon of pumpkin at each feeding. Due to its high fiber content, pumpkin absorbs a lot of water in the kitty’s intestines, which helps firm up the cat’s runny poop.
Constipated cats pass a few dry, hard stools or none at all. A cat with constipation may strain in the litter box and pass liquid feces, which sometimes look like diarrhea. The kitty’s stomach might poke out, and the cat may appear to be uncomfortable. Some cats with constipation lose their appetites.
As was recommended for a cat with diarrhea, give a constipated kitty a half to one teaspoon of pumpkin as well. Pumpkin is an effective stool softener. The dietary fiber in pumpkin absorbs the water in the feline’s intestines, making the kitty’s stools softer and stimulating the bowels.
All-Natural Pumpkin Remedy for Cat Diarrhea, Feline Constipation
Pumpkin is a natural, effective, and inexpensive cat diarrhea remedy and cat constipation treatment. When cats have uncomplicated cases of diarrhea or constipation, the pumpkin solution often helps felines recover quickly. However, if a cat is experiencing other symptoms, such as vomiting or blood in the stool, in addition to diarrhea or constipation or if the cat’s condition does not improve within 24 hours, be sure to take the kitty to the vet as the kitty’s condition might develop into a medical emergency.
Source:
Shojai, Amy D. (1999). New Choices in Natural Healing for Dogs & Cats. Common Health and Behavior Problems (pp. 96, 203, 220-224, 316). NY: Rodale.
Aimee Larsen Stoddard - Aimee is a professional writer/editor. She has a BA in English and is currently completing an MS in Theology.
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