Can Changing Cat Food Cause Diarrhoea And How To Treat Cat Diarrhoea

Can Changing A Cat’s Food Cause Diarrhoea?
How Do I Switch My Cat To A Healthier Diet Without Stomach Upset?
What To Do If Your Cat Refuses The New Food?
When Should You Change Your Cat’s Diet?
Kitten Diarrhoea Treatment: What Should You Do?
Conclusion
FAQs

There may come a time in your cat’s life when you decide to change their food. This could be for their health, because they’ve reached a new life stage, or simply because you’re interested in trying a different brand. 

However, changing a cat’s food isn’t as simple as making an overnight switch. There are several things you must take into consideration first to help your cat adjust safely and reduce the chance of digestive upset, even if you’re switching from one WHISKAS® cat food to another.

In this article, we look at the potential consequences of changing cat food. You will also learn how to switch foods safely and when diarrhoea may require veterinary attention.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• A sudden change in food can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, or other digestive problems in cats and kittens.
• Introduce new food gradually by mixing it with the current food over approximately seven to ten days or more if needed.
• Keep fresh drinking water available, as diarrhoea can lead to dehydration.
• Do not give your cat human medicines or unapproved home remedies to treat diarrhoea.
• Contact a vet if the diarrhoea continues, contains blood, or occurs with vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

Can Changing A Cat’s Food Cause Diarrhoea?

Yes, changing a cat’s food quickly or drastically can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, and gas.  When a cat eats the same food for an extended period, their microbiome (the good bacteria in their gut) adapts to digest that specific balance of proteins, fats, and fibres. Introducing a new food suddenly disrupts this delicate microbial balance, leading to digestive upset and loose stools.

If you have recently changed your cat’s food and they have diarrhoea, try going back to their previous food to see if they improve. Cats’ stomachs can be sensitive to certain types of food, and some ingredients may not agree with them. 

Examples of diets that may cause your cat to have diarrhoea include:

• Raw cat food or a BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet
• A diet that's higher in fibre
• Cow's milk, which some cats are sensitive to
• Sudden swaps between dry and wet food
• Any sudden swaps to new flavours of cat food

Take the time to research different brands and types before you decide to change your cat’s diet. As a general rule, meats like turkey and chicken are easy to digest, especially when combined with rice or wheat.

How Do I Switch My Cat To A Healthier Diet Without Stomach Upset?

If you are keen to change your brand or type of cat food, you need to do this slowly and safely.  

A simple seven-day transition may look like this:

• Days 1 and 2: 75% current food and 25% new food
• Days 3 and 4: 50% current food and 50% new food
• Days 5 and 6: 25% current food and 75% new food
• Day 7: 100% new food

Depending on how fussy your cat is, this process can sometimes take a little longer than seven days. Be patient and don’t be tempted to rush your cat. If your cat does have an upset stomach at first, ensure they have plenty of fresh water to drink. 

What To Do If Your Cat Refuses The New Food?

If your cat turns their nose up at the new food and refuses to eat it, you should rethink your decision. If cats go without food for a certain amount of time, they risk developing hepatic lipidosis, which can be fatal. Try these steps:

1. Slow the transition and use a smaller amount of the new food.
2. Mix the foods thoroughly so your cat cannot easily separate them.
3. Warm wet food slightly to make its aroma more appealing.
4. Serve the food in a clean bowl in a quiet feeding area.
5. Avoid adding milk, broth, treats, or human food unless your vet approves it.

If your cat continues to refuse food, returns to the bowl but cannot eat, or appears unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.

When Should You Change Your Cat’s Diet?

Occasionally your vet may suggest a change to your cat’s diet when:

• Your kitten is becoming an adult
• Your adult cat is entering the senior years
• Your cat has gained or lost weight
• They are facing recurring digestive problems
• They have been diagnosed with a medical condition
• Their current food is no longer suitable or available

Before making any changes, always consult a vet for advice on which type of food will best meet your cat’s needs.

Kitten Diarrhoea Treatment: What Should You Do?

Kitten diarrhoea treatment depends on the cause, which may include worms, bacterial or viral infections, stress, inflammatory bowel disease, toxins, poisonous plants, or a swallowed object. Since kittens can become dehydrated quickly, take these steps:

• Keep clean drinking water available
• Stop giving new treats, human food, or milk
• Do not give human diarrhoea medicines
• Note the frequency, colour, and consistency of the stools
• Check for vomiting, tiredness, pain, or appetite loss
• Contact your veterinarian if diarrhoea lasts more than 12 hours
• Seek immediate care for bloody or black stools, repeated watery diarrhoea, severe weakness, or refusal to eat or drink

A veterinarian can diagnose the cause and prescribe suitable treatment, such as fluids, parasite control, medication, or temporary dietary support.

Conclusion

Changing a cat's food isn't as simple as making an overnight switch. Take the transition slowly, keep an eye on your cat's stool and appetite, and speak to your vet if diarrhoea persists or comes with other symptoms. A gradual, well-planned switch is the safest way to keep your cat's tummy happy.