I'm really anxious right now and could really use some advice. My cat, Whiskers, has been having diarrhea for the past few days, and I'm pretty sure it's giardia. I’ve done some googling and the symptoms match up: loose stools, a bit of a bloated tummy, and he’s just not his usual playful self. I scheduled a vet appointment for tomorrow, but I’m freaking out a bit in the meantime. Has anyone here dealt with giardia in their cats before? What should I expect from the vet visit, and how can I help him feel better at home in the meantime? He’s eating and drinking, but his energy is so low. I just feel so helpless watching him suffer like this. Any advice or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks for reaching out with your question! Dealing with giardia in cats can be concerning, but I'm here to help clarify things for you. Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes diarrhea and digestive upset in cats. It's often spread through contact with contaminated water, food, or surfaces.
If your cat has been diagnosed or you're suspecting giardia, you might notice symptoms like diarrhea (sometimes with a foul smell or mucus), vomiting, weight loss, or signs of dehydration. Sometimes, cats might have the parasite but not show any visible symptoms.
While you're waiting for your vet appointment, make sure your cat stays hydrated. Encourage drinking by providing fresh water frequently. Keep their litter box clean to prevent reinfection and reduce the risk of spreading the parasite.
Watch for signs of dehydration, like sunken eyes or decreased skin elasticity — gently pinch the skin on their back; if it doesn't snap right back, your cat may be dehydrated. Also, look out for persistent vomiting or lethargy, which might require more immediate attention.
Your upcoming vet visit will help confirm the diagnosis and get a treatment plan in place. A video consult with Dial A Vet could provide further guidance on your cat’s care from the comfort of your own home, especially if you have more questions or need additional advice.
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