An upset stomach in cats is a common issue, and as a responsible pet owner, it’s natural to be concerned when your feline friend isn’t feeling their best. Understanding what vets typically prescribe or recommend for feline gastrointestinal distress can help you be better prepared to discuss treatment options and provide informed care. This article delves into the various medications, therapies, and supportive measures veterinarians use to alleviate upset stomach in cats, along with insights into when professional help is absolutely necessary.
Identifying the Causes of Feline Upset Stomach
Before exploring treatment options, it’s crucial to understand the potential reasons why your cat might be experiencing digestive upset. The causes can range from relatively minor issues to more serious underlying conditions. Identifying the root cause helps your veterinarian choose the most effective treatment plan.
One of the most frequent causes is dietary indiscretion. Cats are curious creatures, and sometimes they eat things they shouldn’t, such as spoiled food, garbage, or even household plants. This can lead to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, causing vomiting and diarrhea.
Food allergies or sensitivities can also trigger an upset stomach. Common allergens include certain proteins (like beef or chicken) and grains. Symptoms may develop gradually over time.
Parasitic infections, such as intestinal worms (roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms) and protozoal infections (Giardia, Coccidia), are a significant cause of gastrointestinal distress in cats, especially kittens.
Bacterial or viral infections, like feline panleukopenia (feline distemper) or Salmonella, can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea. These infections often require intensive veterinary care.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition involving inflammation of the digestive tract. The exact cause is unknown, but it’s thought to be related to immune system dysfunction.
Less common, but potentially serious, causes include pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland), and even cancer. These conditions usually present with other symptoms alongside gastrointestinal upset.
Foreign bodies, such as pieces of toys or string, can become lodged in the digestive tract, causing obstruction and severe vomiting. These often require surgical intervention.
Common Medications Used by Veterinarians
Veterinarians have a range of medications at their disposal to treat upset stomach in cats. The choice of medication depends on the underlying cause, the severity of the symptoms, and the cat’s overall health. It’s always best to follow your vet’s prescribed instructions.
Antiemetics: Controlling Vomiting
Vomiting is a common symptom of upset stomach in cats, and antiemetics are medications designed to control it. These drugs work by blocking the signals that trigger the vomiting center in the brain.
Maropitant citrate (Cerenia) is a commonly used antiemetic in veterinary medicine. It is effective and relatively safe for cats. It works by blocking the effects of substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in vomiting. It is available as an injectable and oral medication.
Metoclopramide is another antiemetic that can be used, although it’s often less effective than maropitant. It helps to speed up gastric emptying and reduce nausea.
In some cases, ondansetron, a more potent antiemetic, may be prescribed, especially if the vomiting is severe or persistent.
Antidiarrheals: Managing Diarrhea
Diarrhea is another common symptom of upset stomach, and antidiarrheals help to reduce the frequency and liquidity of bowel movements.
Loperamide (Imodium) is an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication that can be used in cats, but only under the strict guidance of a veterinarian. The dosage must be very precise, as an overdose can be toxic.
Probiotics are often recommended to help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These are not strictly antidiarrheals but can help improve gut health and reduce diarrhea.
Gastroprotectants: Protecting the Stomach Lining
Gastroprotectants help to protect the lining of the stomach and esophagus from damage caused by stomach acid.
Famotidine (Pepcid) and ranitidine (Zantac) are H2 receptor antagonists that reduce the production of stomach acid.
Omeprazole (Prilosec) is a proton pump inhibitor that is more potent at reducing stomach acid production than H2 receptor antagonists.
Sucralfate is a medication that forms a protective barrier over ulcers or damaged areas in the stomach or esophagus. It needs to be administered separately from other medications, as it can interfere with their absorption.
Deworming Medications: Eliminating Parasites
If parasites are the cause of the upset stomach, your veterinarian will prescribe a deworming medication appropriate for the specific type of parasite.
Fenbendazole (Panacur) is a broad-spectrum dewormer effective against many types of intestinal worms.
Praziquantel (Droncit) is specifically used to treat tapeworms.
Other deworming medications may be used depending on the specific parasite identified.
Antibiotics: Fighting Bacterial Infections
If a bacterial infection is suspected, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics. However, antibiotics are not always necessary and should only be used when a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance.
Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is often used to treat gastrointestinal infections in cats. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Amoxicillin-clavulanate is another antibiotic that may be used for certain bacterial infections.
Corticosteroids: Reducing Inflammation
In cases of IBD or other inflammatory conditions, corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
Prednisolone is a commonly used corticosteroid in veterinary medicine. It can be effective at reducing inflammation, but it also has potential side effects, so it should be used with caution and under close veterinary supervision.
Supportive Care and Dietary Management
In addition to medications, supportive care and dietary management are crucial for helping a cat recover from an upset stomach.
Fluid Therapy
Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so fluid therapy is often necessary. This can be administered intravenously (IV) in severe cases, or subcutaneously (under the skin) for milder cases.
Bland Diet
A bland diet is often recommended to give the digestive system a rest. Common bland diet options include boiled chicken or turkey (skinless and boneless) mixed with cooked white rice.
The rationale behind bland diets is to provide highly digestible food that’s easy on the stomach, reducing irritation and allowing the digestive system to recover. These diets are low in fat and fiber, minimizing stimulation of the gastrointestinal tract. It’s advisable to gradually reintroduce your cat’s regular diet after a few days on a bland diet.
Probiotics
Probiotics can help to restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These can be administered as a supplement or found in certain foods.
Small, Frequent Meals
Feeding small, frequent meals can help to prevent overloading the digestive system.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
While some cases of upset stomach can be managed at home with supportive care, it’s important to know when to seek professional veterinary attention.
If your cat is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea (more than 24 hours)
- Blood in the vomit or stool
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or distension
- Dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums)
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
Kittens and senior cats are more vulnerable to complications from upset stomach, so it’s especially important to seek veterinary care promptly if they are experiencing any of these symptoms.
In conclusion, upset stomach in cats can be caused by a variety of factors, and treatment options range from medications to supportive care and dietary management. Knowing what vets typically prescribe and recommend can help you be a more informed and proactive pet owner. However, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Never administer medications to your cat without veterinary guidance. Remember, your cat’s health and well-being are paramount.