Dysentery in cats – causes and symptoms

Dysentery in cats and other animals is characterized by liquid or semi-fluid evacuations, accompanied by blood. We tell you more below:

Dysentery in cats may not be easy to detect

One of the most common problems in cats is diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress. Even so, depending on your cat’s lifestyle, it is possible not to be aware of his bathing habits.

Most cats defecate once a day. In case of a normal deposition, the smell should not knock you out and its consistency should allow it to be handled easily.

Now, blood in a cat’s feces can be difficult to identify. If blood originates from the lower intestinal tract, especially the distal colon – the large intestine – or the rectal region, it most likely looks like fresh blood. How do you detect it? Frequently red or pink drops or spots are discovered on the sides of the litter box and on the top of the stool.

On the other hand, if the bleeding originates in the upper part of the intestinal tract, particularly in the small intestine, it will be black or brown. This color change is due to partial digestion of blood by enzymes secreted in the small intestine. This blood will often appear as dark spots, specks or coffee beans.

It is important to keep in mind that both constipation and diarrhea can cause blood in cat feces. Bright red blood without diarrhea or hard, dry stools generally indicates that the problem is closer to the rectum and anus.

What are the causes of dysentery in cats?

This would be an exhaustively long list if we delve into everything that can cause dysentery in cats, but these are some of the general categories:

• Parasites.
• Viral or bacterial infections.
• Dietary indiscretion or sudden change in diet.
• Stress: stress, anxiety or excitement can cause colitis.
• Primary inflammatory disorders.
• Metabolic diseases: From disorders of the pancreas or liver to thyroid imbalances, there are many other problems that alter the motility or environment of the gastrointestinal tract and can cause bloody diarrhea.
• Medications or toxins: It is little known that certain medications, including some antibiotics, can alter the gastrointestinal tract, as well as certain toxins.

How to act in case of detecting dysentery in cats?

Because there are so many potential causes of dysentery pictures in cats, it is important to check with your veterinarian regularly. It is obvious that many of the causes of diarrhea need specific therapy. In case of dysentery, you should always consult the veterinarian.

While the doctor treats you, the main thing is to maintain hydration. It is very important to avoid dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

Associated symptoms

In general, if your cat has a slightly soft stool but is still happy, playful and eating normally, you can probably wait to see what the next bowel movement looks like. Some reasons for alarm are:

What should you do if you see blood in your cat’s feces?

Before any change in the depositions of your cat you should inform your veterinarian immediately. Keep in mind that loose stools in the morning can cause dehydrating diarrhea during the night.

The blood in the stool, red or black is always worrisome. Digested dark blood can indicate a serious condition, while red blood can be anything from benign food changes to cancer.

In short, if you notice something strange in your cat’s feces, do not delay in seeking veterinary help. Do not expect it to resolve itself. The best advice is to continue spying on your cat’s litter box to act on time.

Hydration in cats is very important. Read in this article everything you need to keep your cat hydrated and healthy.