Symptoms of Feline Gastroenteritis

Feline gastroenteritis can be divided into acute and chronic forms, both of which affect the cat's digestion and absorption abilities. The main difference between the two is that acute gastroenteritis occurs suddenly and progresses rapidly. Cats usually exhibit symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, depression, and loss of appetite. On the other hand, chronic gastroenteritis presents more mildly and generally does not cause vomiting. It often manifests as alternating diarrhea and constipation, or long-term incomplete and soft stools.

Symptoms of Acute Feline Gastroenteritis

Acute feline gastroenteritis is usually caused by bacterial infections and can also be secondary to certain viral infections. The symptoms are relatively obvious and usually include frequent vomiting and diarrhea, which can easily lead to severe dehydration in cats. If not treated promptly, the condition can be life-threatening, so it is recommended to take the cat to a pet hospital for treatment.

Symptoms of Chronic Feline Gastroenteritis

Chronic feline gastroenteritis is usually caused by improper feeding or a weakened digestive ability in cats. Compared to acute enteritis, the symptoms are usually milder but last longer. The main manifestations are long-term diarrhea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. Treatment options include giving the cat oral probiotics, kaolin, etc., to stop diarrhea. If the cat has severe diarrhea or frequent vomiting, it is necessary to take the cat to a pet hospital for fluid therapy as soon as possible.

Note: There are some diseases that have symptoms similar to acute gastroenteritis, such as feline panleukopenia, which can be easily confused. Therefore, if you are unsure of the exact diagnosis for your cat, it is recommended to go to a pet hospital for examination and treatment promptly to avoid missing the best treatment window.