Cat Diarrhea: Causes & What to Do
A single soft stool after a food change usually settles within a day. Diarrhea that lasts more than 24–48 hours, contains blood, or comes with vomiting or lethargy needs a vet — cats dehydrate quickly.
Common causes
- Sudden food change
- Intestinal parasites (especially kittens)
- Bacterial or viral infection
- Food intolerance or allergy
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Hyperthyroidism in older cats
See a vet today if
- Kittens or seniors with diarrhea
- Blood or black, tarry stool
- Vomiting too, or not eating
- Lethargy or hiding
- Diarrhea for more than 48 hours
Home care for mild cases
- Keep fresh water available; wet food adds fluid
- Don't give human anti-diarrhea medicine — some are toxic to cats
- Change food gradually over 7–10 days
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. If you're worried about your pet, call your vet or an emergency clinic.