Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Cat's diarrhea worse on meds, now weak. Should I give Pedialyte?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 24 days old | 5 lbs

Hi!My cat has had diarrhea for 4 days now.We took him to the vet and they ran some tests, they figured the food he was eating was responsible.The vet ordered 3 meds:kaolinpectin, cimetidine, and metronidazole.He's been taking them for two days but his poop is more liquid now,he's constipated,& seems anxious and a bit weak. The same vet told us we could buy pedalyte if it continued so that he didn't get dehydrated.Should I just give him the pedalyte w/ his new food to see if he gets better?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Susan England-Foster

Veterinarian

Published on August 25th, 2017

I am sorry Damian does not feel well. I would recommend recontacting the vet to let them know Damian feels worse. Typically metronidazole works with in 24-48 hours. Typically if he is having liquid diarrhea he is not constipated. I would make sure a fecal is negative for parasites like coccidia. He might need deworming for coccidia since he is you. I would feed him the new food and you can start with a small amount of pedialyte however if he is still not improving I recommend taking him back to a veterinarian for more testing like bloodwork.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    HI, thanks for using Petcoach! I am sorry Damian is having such a hard time! If the diarrhea is worse on the medications consider stopping them. You can try a probiotic, I like Purina Fortiflora. I attached a link below. But I am worried that you mentioned that he is weak, that isn't normal. That alone is a reason to get him to the Vet again for a recheck. You might have to go to an emergency clinic if it continues this weekend. Sadly sometimes diarrhea in some kittens can be very frustrating. If some of the traditional medications don't work special testing is usually required. Some kitten diarrhea can last a long time and only goes away when the cat is 1-2 years old! Hopefully Damian just needs to try a different medication plan. I recommend that your touch base with your Vet Monday to let them know how he is doing. I wish you the best and I hope Damian is back to normal soon! https://www.chewy.com/purina-pro-plan-veterinary-diets/dp/49853

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored