Colitis in Cats: What it is, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Welcome to the Waggy's blog! On this occasion, we will talk about an important topic for all cat owners: colitis. We will explain what colitis is, its symptoms, causes and how to prevent this uncomfortable condition. Additionally, we will discover how Waggy's CBD products can be a valuable tool in managing colitis in your feline, relieving stress and promoting healthy digestion. Let us begin!

What is colitis in cats?

Colitis in cats is an inflammation of the colon or large intestine that can cause various gastrointestinal symptoms. This condition can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).

Causes of cat diarrhea

The causes of colitis in cats can vary widely and include infections, food allergies, parasites, stress, inflammatory bowel diseases and cancer, among others.

Some of the most common can be:

• Infections: bacterial, viral or fungal.
• Intestinal parasites: Like worms.
• Diet: Food allergies or intolerances to certain foods.
• Stress: Changes in environment or routine can trigger colitis.

Waggy's CBD products are designed to provide natural and effective relief from stress and anxiety in your pets. These products not only help calm dogs and cats in stressful situations, but also play a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of conditions such as colitis. Colitis, which is often related to stress, can cause pain and discomfort in your pet. By reducing stress and anxiety, Waggy's CBD promotes a healthier and more balanced digestive system, thereby decreasing the likelihood of colitis episodes. With Waggy's, you can be sure that you are offering your pet a safe and natural solution to improve their overall well-being.

• Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD): Chronic conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
• Cancer: Tumors in the colon.
• Toxins or irritating substances: Ingestion of toxic or irritating substances.

Symptoms of colitis in cats

The symptoms of colitis in cats can depend on several factors as well as the severity of the condition. Some of the most common are:

• Diarrhea: Often with blood or mucus.
• Straining to defecate: The cat may show signs of pain when trying to defecate.
• Increased frequency of defecation: These may be small and frequent stools.
• Weight loss: Especially in chronic cases.
• Lethargy: The cat may appear less active than normal.
• Vomiting: Although not always, some cats can vomit.

Treatment for colitis in cats

Treatment of colitis in cats varies depending on the cause and may include a combination of dietary changes, medications, and specific care:

• Hypoallergenic Diets: For hypoallergenic cats or food intolerances, it is recommended to switch to a hypoallergenic diet. These diets are usually composed of hydrolyzed proteins or new protein sources that the cat has not previously consumed.
• Highly Digestible Diets: To minimize intestinal irritation, diets formulated to be easily digestible are used, reducing the burden on the digestive system.
• High-Fiber Diets: In some cases, adding fiber to the diet can help normalize intestinal motility and improve stool consistency.
• Antibiotics: If colitis is caused by bacterial infections, antibiotics may be necessary to clear the infection.
• Antiparasitic: For infections caused by parasites such as Giardia or Coccidia, specific antiparasitic medications are prescribed.
• Anti-inflammatories and Corticosteroids: In cases of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroids can reduce colon inflammation.
• Probiotics and Prebiotics: Probiotics help restore healthy intestinal flora, while prebiotics feed beneficial bacteria.
• Antidiarrheals: Medications that help reduce diarrhea and improve stool consistency.
• Calm Environment: Reducing environmental stress is crucial. Maintaining a calm and predictable environment helps minimize stress. Don't forget to maintain impeccable grooming and hygiene for cats .
• Systemic Diseases: If colitis is secondary to systemic diseases such as hyperthyroidism or liver diseases, treating the disease is essential.
• Nutritional Supplements: In some cases, nutritional supplements may be recommended to ensure that the cat receives all necessary nutrients.
• Regular Veterinarian Visits: It is important to follow up regularly with the veterinarian to adjust treatment as necessary and monitor the cat's response.

Colitis in cats can be a challenging condition, but with proper diagnosis and comprehensive treatment, it can be managed effectively and improve your pet's quality of life.

Home remedies for diarrhea in cats

• Temporary Fasting: Withdraw food for 12-24 hours, but make sure the cat has access to fresh water at all times. This can help reduce intestinal irritation and allow the gastrointestinal tract to recover.
• Whitish Diet: After the fasting period, offer small portions of a bland diet, such as boiled skinless, boneless chicken or white rice. These foods are easy to digest and can help calm the digestive system. Gradually mix the soft diet with the cat's regular food until the cat is completely recovered.
• Pumpkin Puree: Add a tablespoon of pumpkin puree (without sugar or spices) to the cat's food. The fiber in pumpkin can help solidify stool and improve intestinal health.
• Hydration: Provides constant access to fresh water. If your cat isn't drinking enough water, consider giving it unsalted chicken broth to encourage it to drink more.
• Rice Water: Boil white rice in a large amount of water, then strain the rice and offer the water to the cat once it has cooled. The starch in rice water can help calm the digestive system.

In this white diet, do not include cat milk because this can worsen your pet's colitis and remember that it is always crucial to consult the veterinarian before starting any home remedy, especially if the diarrhea persists for more than 24-48 hours, if there is blood in the stool, or if the cat shows other signs of illness such as lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite. Implementing these home remedies can provide temporary relief for diarrhea in cats, but should always be considered as a complementary measure to professional care and diagnosis.

In case your pet doesn't like going to visit the veterinarian, I recommend that you give him Waggy's brand treats. because they contain CBD for cats that will help you a lot to level out stress and anxiety levels before going to your session, which will be beneficial for everyone. If you want to know what the other advantages of Waggy's products are, I recommend reading the article: CBD for Cats Benefits

How long does colitis last in cats?

There really is no certain answer to this as the duration of colitis in cats can vary from a few days in acute cases to lifelong management in chronic cases. The key to minimizing the duration and improving the cat's quality of life is an accurate diagnosis and timely and appropriate treatment.

Can colitis in cats be prevented?

Yes, it is possible to prevent colitis in cats through a combination of strategies focused on diet, stress management, hygiene, and regular veterinary care. Feeding your cat a balanced and adequate diet, avoiding sudden changes in food, can reduce the risk of digestive disorders. Minimizing stress in the cat's environment through a stable environment and the use of calming products, such as Waggy's Soft Chews Treats, is also crucial. Maintaining good hygiene, including regularly cleaning the litter box and preventing parasitic infections through regular deworming, is essential. Additionally, regular visits to the veterinarian for preventive checkups help detect and treat health problems before they become serious conditions, such as colitis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, colitis in cats is a common condition that can cause considerable discomfort to our beloved pets. However, with a proper diet, a stress-free environment, and regular veterinary care, it is possible to prevent and effectively manage this condition. At Waggy's, we are committed to your cat's well-being, offering natural products like CBD, which can help relieve stress and promote optimal digestive health. Remember that prevention is key and, if you have any symptoms of colitis, always consult your veterinarian for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Take care of your cat with love and the best care, and together you can enjoy a healthy and happy life!