7 Helpful Home Remedies for Mild Diarrhea in Cats 

Diarrhea is a condition that occurs when your cat’s digestive system is not functioning properly, and it can be caused by a variety of factors such as dietary changes, stress, infections, or even certain medications. While it can be disconcerting to see your cat experiencing diarrhea, it’s often nothing to worry about and can be treated with some simple home remedies. Mild diarrhea usually resolves on its own within a few days, but it’s essential to take steps to help your cat feel better and prevent dehydration. 

Increase Water Intake

Diarrhea can cause dehydration, so it’s crucial to make sure your cat drinks plenty of water or other fluids such as chicken broth. Encourage your cat to drink more water by providing fresh water in a clean bowl or even adding water to their food. You can also give your cat ice cubes to lick or try feeding them wet food instead of dry food. If they’re not drinking on their own, try using a syringe or dropper to give your cat water or an electrolyte solution. Dehydration can be serious, so monitor your cat’s water intake and urine output. 

Try a Bland Diet

If your cat is experiencing mild diarrhea, it may be helpful to switch their diet to a bland, easily digestible meal. One option is to feed your cat boiled chicken and rice. This meal is gentle on the digestive system and can help to reduce inflammation in the gut. To prepare this meal, simply boil boneless chicken and cook rice separately. Mix the two together and feed to your cat in small portions throughout the day. Make sure to avoid feeding your cat any fatty or spicy foods. 

Give Them Bone Broth

Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid that can help to soothe the gut and reduce inflammation. It’s also a great way to keep your cat hydrated, which is important when they’re experiencing diarrhea. To make bone broth, simply simmer chicken or beef bones in water for several hours. Strain the liquid and let it cool before giving it to your cat. You can serve bone broth alone or mix it with their food.  

Add Probiotics

Probiotics are healthy bacteria that can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your cat’s gut. You can add probiotic-rich food such as plain yogurt or kefir to their diet or give them a probiotic supplement. Make sure to choose a probiotic that is specifically designed for cats. However, always check with your veterinarian before giving any supplements or new foods to your cat. 

Give Them Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a natural remedy that can help relieve diarrhea in cats. It contains fiber and nutrients that can help regulate your cat’s digestive system and firm up your cat’s stool. You can add 1-2 tablespoons of canned pumpkin to your cat’s food or give them a small amount of cooked pumpkin as a treat. Be sure to choose pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. 

Use Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help to soothe the gut and reduce diarrhea. It’s also a great way to keep your cat hydrated. To make chamomile tea for your cat, steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for several minutes. Let the tea cool before giving it to your cat. You can serve chamomile tea alone or mix it with their food. 

Let Them Rest

Rest is essential for your cat to recover from diarrhea. Provide a comfortable, quiet place for your cat to rest and avoid stressing them out. Stress can make diarrhea worse, so try to keep your cat calm and comfortable. 

The Bottom Line 

Mild diarrhea in cats can be treated at home with these simple remedies. However, if your cat’s diarrhea is severe, lasts longer than a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting or lethargy, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. Your vet can diagnose the underlying cause of your cat’s diarrhea and provide appropriate treatment. In the meantime, these home remedies can help your cat feel better and recover quickly.