How can you recognise digestive problems in your dog or cat?

What are digestive problems in a dog or cat?

If your dog or cat is experiencing digestive problems, it means they are either not digesting their food properly or are experiencing discomfort during the digestion process. This can have various causes and may lead to significant discomfort.

How can you recognise digestive problems in your dog or cat?

Check the stool

One of the first signs that your dog or cat may be experiencing digestive issues is irregular stool. It may be too soft or too hard. If you notice that your pet needs to defecate more frequently and has watery stool, this is a cause for concern. However, if your pet struggles to defecate and produces very hard stools, this is also a problem. Stool should be firm, but not too hard.

Is your dog or cat vomiting?

A dog or cat with digestive problems may start vomiting. It is normal for a pet to vomit occasionally. However, if your pet vomits regularly — weekly or even daily — it could be a sign that something is wrong with the gastrointestinal tract. If your pet vomits daily, it is important to contact your veterinarian.

Especially with kittens and puppies, you should not wait too long to take action. They are highly vulnerable to dehydration and developing deficiencies in certain nutrients. It is better to contact your veterinarian too early than too late.

Cats can also vomit up hairballs. As with vomiting in general, an occasional hairball is not a cause for concern. It usually means your cat has ingested too much hair, for example during the moulting season. Normally, swallowed hairs pass through the digestive system and are expelled with the stool. If your cat ingests too much hair, she may vomit it up in the form of an elongated ball. If your cat brings up several hairballs per week or regularly vomits alongside them, you should contact your veterinarian. It may be necessary to treat your cat with supplements that help prevent hairballs.

Pay attention to subtle symptoms in your dog or cat

Digestive problems in your pet can be subtle and develop gradually. As a result, your dog’s or cat’s behaviour may slowly change because they are feeling unwell or possibly in pain. For example, they may become calmer, play less, be less enthusiastic about walks, or withdraw from interaction. If you notice a gradual change in your dog’s or cat’s behaviour, it is important to contact your veterinarian.

Weight loss and a dull coat

Your dog or cat may also lose weight or develop a more brittle and dull coat. This can be a sign that they are not properly absorbing certain nutrients. In such cases, it is advisable to have your pet examined by your veterinarian.

Reduced appetite in your dog or cat

If your dog or cat suddenly has a reduced appetite, this can also be a sign of a problem. Especially for cats, it is important that they eat something every day to prevent hepatic lipidosis, which can make them seriously ill. An adult dog can occasionally skip a meal, but if you notice that they consistently eat less or are less enthusiastic about eating, something may be wrong. In that case, it is important to visit your veterinarian for a check-up. Many issues can cause a reduced appetite in your pet, including digestive problems.

Consult your veterinarian if you are in doubt

If you suspect that your pet is experiencing digestive problems, consult your veterinarian. Your pet could be in considerable pain, and poor absorption of nutrients can be very harmful to their health. Often, supportive nutrition and supplements for your dog or cat can make a significant difference to your pet’s well-being.

Possible solutions for digestive problems

As mentioned, it is always important to visit your veterinarian to determine the exact cause of the problem. In many cases, digestive issues in a dog or cat can be effectively treated or managed with appropriate nutrition. This type of food often contains highly digestible proteins to minimise the burden on the digestive system. Added prebiotics help support a healthy gastrointestinal tract. Your veterinarian can advise you on suitable food options. Royal Canin Gastrointestinal for dogs or cats is one such diet, as well as Vetality Gastrointestinal and Hill’s i/d Digestive Care.
In some cases, additional testing such as stool analysis or blood tests may be necessary. Occasionally, imaging or an endoscopy of the stomach and intestines is needed to reach a diagnosis. Your veterinarian is best placed to advise you on this.

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