Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why does my cat have loose stools, litter box issues, and eat a lot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Devon Rex | Female | spayed | 12 years and 9 months old | 7 lbs

Nearly 13 year old Devon Rex female neutered house cat. She has had loose, very smelly stools for approx 8 weeks and constantly poos outside the litter tray but will wee in it, no incontinence. Multiple visits to the vets, full bloods taken (vet text attached with results). I have wormed with solution on back of the neck and orally, no worms present. Very clingy, very vocal, eating loads. Vet thinks it’s gut related but now wondering if it could be something else. Is she in pain? thanks, Laura

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on October 31st, 2017

Hi there and thanks for your question. Intestinal worms and intestinal parasites can be a cause of loose stools. If she has been tested for parasites and is negative for them, then this can be ruled out. It cannot be entirely ruled out with worming treatment alone. A fecal test is needed. There are other causes such as a bacterial or viral infection, a food allergy, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, and certain types of cancers, especially cancers of the gastrointestinal system. Eating more than normal as mentioned in your question may indicate an endocrine disorder such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism. Both of these can also cause loose stools. Diarrhea or lose stools can be uncomfortable to pass. Cats do not show their pain very well to us at all so it can be hard to determine if Maisie is in pain, but if she is more vocal than usual, and very attached to you lately and this is not her normal behavior, then yes, it may indicate she is not feeling very well and is uncomfortable. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. No test results came through, & you do not indicate if antibiotics were tried. If not, sometimes this is necessary. Some cats do well by switching to a "stress diet". Royal Canin Feline Veterinary Diet Stress has actually helped quite a few cats with chronic diarrhea. I also like to put these cats on a probiotic. Purina FortiFlora is a very good one. If you try the diet & probiotic, you need to give it at least a month to see if it helps. Otherwise, the next step is either an ultrasound of the intestines, or possibly even a biopsy to diagnose why the diarrhea is so persistent. Thank you.

    Vote icon

    0Pet 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
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
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
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