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Cat diarrhea after new food and treats. How can I help my cat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Male | neutered | 10 lbs

My cat eats IAMS hairball control but store only had oral care IAMS which I mixed the food. Within 1-2 days major diarrhea. After 2-3 days I took away food & gave him reg. food. also was giving him treats that he normally doesn't eat & after taking away that food & diarrhea not stopping, I took away treats 2 days ago. The diarrhea seemed to be letting up but this morning there was one pile of a little harder but runny stool. I took food away this AM for 12 hours to see if helps. Thoughts?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 6th, 2017

Diarrhea can often occur secondary to an abrupt food change. In some cases removing the offending food is enough, but other times medication may be necessary to help restore normal balance of the G.I. tract. I would recommend getting some probiotics for Snirt (most vets and some petstores should have probiotics for cats). If he is eating and drinking well, with no vomiting then give it another one or two days with his regular diet and adding in the probiotics. But if his diarrhea is worsening, he has any vomiting or stops eating then I would recommend a veterinary visit. I hope Snirt is back to normal soon and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach

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