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Cat on metronidazole: Explosive diarrhea normal? Keep giving meds?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Korat | Male | neutered | 13 years and 5 months old | 9.6 lbs

Hi, my cat has been having chronic loose stools and was put on metronidazole. After just one day of the antibiotics, he started to have explosive diarrhea. Is that normal and should I continue with the meds?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jyothi Alagappan

Veterinarian

Published on June 2nd, 2018

Hi and thank you for using PetCoach. I am sorry to hear that Beau is having diarrhea. Since, Beau has only been on metronidazole for one day, I would continue it as it may not have started to work yet. It typically takes 24-48 hours to see any changes. However, if Beau stops eating, is lethargic or has blood in his stool, I would reach out to your veterinarian again and let them know. Beau may need another physical exam or other medications. Here is an article on diarrhea in cats that may be helpful for you and Beau: https://www.petcoach.co/article/diarrhea-in-cats/ Good luck and I hope he feels better soon!

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