I'm reaching out here because I'm feeling really overwhelmed and worried. My cat, Milo, had surgery about three weeks ago to remove a foreign body he somehow managed to swallow (no idea how he got his paws on it!). The surgery itself went well, thank goodness, but ever since then he's been having chronic diarrhea. He seems fine otherwise, eating normally and even playing a bit, but I'm just stressed because the diarrhea doesn't seem to be improving at all. Our vet said it might be a reaction to antibiotics or the stress from surgery, but it's been several weeks now. I'm wondering if anyone has experienced something similar with their cats? Are there specific treatments or diet changes that helped? I just feel so helpless watching him go through this, and any advice would be appreciated. Thanks so much in advance.
Hello there! I’m sorry to hear about your cat’s ongoing diarrhea after surgery for a foreign body removal. It’s understandable to be concerned, and you’re taking the right steps by seeking advice.
Diarrhea post-surgery can be due to a few reasons. Your cat might be experiencing stress, which affects digestion. The surgery and anesthesia can upset their gastrointestinal tract, or they could be reacting to any medications prescribed during recovery. Additionally, changes in diet, be it temporary diets suggested post-surgery or decreased appetite, may also contribute.
At home, you can help by sticking to a bland diet recommended by your vet, such as boiled chicken or plain rice, to ease their stomach. Ensure they're drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration – a cat fountain might encourage them.
Watch for signs like lethargy, vomiting, blood in the stool, or if your cat is not eating, as these can indicate more serious issues like infection or complications from the surgery.
Given the persistence of the diarrhea, it’s important to explore this further. Booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet would be a great step to assess your cat’s health and guide the next steps in their care. Wishing your kitty a speedy recovery!
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