Colitis in Cats: Everything You Need to Know

Colitis refers to inflammation of the colon (large intestine), a key part of your cat’s digestive system. When the colon becomes inflamed, it can no longer absorb water efficiently, resulting in loose stools or diarrhoea. The condition can be acute (short-term and sudden) or chronic (lasting for weeks or recurring frequently).

In many cases, colitis affects only the colon, but it can also be part of a broader gastrointestinal issue. The inflamed colon becomes irritated, which often causes urgency, straining, and discomfort when passing faeces. It’s not a disease in itself but rather a clinical syndrome with multiple potential causes.

Colitis can stem from a wide range of triggers. These are some of the most frequent culprits:

1. Dietary IndiscretionMoggies with curious appetites sometimes eat things they shouldn’t, which can irritate the gut.

2. Sudden Dietary ChangesAbruptly changing your cat’s food—especially without a gradual transition—can upset their digestive system.

3. Food Allergies or IntolerancesSome kitties are sensitive to proteins or ingredients in their diet, which may trigger inflammation.

4. ParasitesWorms (such as round worms, hook worms and whip worms) and protozoal infections ( such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium) can cause colitis, particularly in younger cats or kittens. Regular deworming is essential.

5. Bacterial or Viral InfectionsInfections such as Campylobacter, Clostridium perfringens, or feline parvovirus (panleukopenia) may lead to colitis.

6. Stress or AnxietyStress-related colitis is real. Changes in routine, new pets, or a recent move can all disrupt your feline’s digestive balance.

7. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)Chronic inflammation of the GI tract can include the colon, often requiring long-term management.

8. Antibiotic-Associated DiarrhoeaDisruption of the gut microbiome due to antibiotic use may trigger colitis in susceptible cats.

9. NeoplasiaAlthough rarer, tumours or polyps in the colon can mimic colitis symptoms.

Recognising the signs of colitis in cats is essential for early intervention. Typical symptoms include:

●      Frequent, small-volume diarrhoea

●      Straining to defecate (tenesmus)

●      Mucus or blood in the stool

●      Pain or vocalisation during defecation

●      Increased urgency or accidents outside the litter box

●      Decreased appetite

●      Lethargy

If your kitty is displaying these symptoms, it’s time to consult your vet. While the cause may be mild and transient, some forms of colitis require prompt treatment.

While colitis can affect any feline, certain moggies may be more prone:

●      Kittens with underdeveloped immune systems are especially vulnerable to infectious causes.

●      Senior cats may suffer from chronic diseases or food intolerances.

●      Indoor cats with low exposure to parasites may experience stronger reactions if infected.

●      Cats with a history of IBD are prone to recurrent episodes.

●      Anxious or highly sensitive cats may be more likely to develop stress-induced colitis.

When you bring your cat to the vet for suspected colitis, a stepwise approach is usually taken:

1. Full Clinical History and Physical ExaminationYour vet will ask detailed questions about diet, lifestyle, and recent changes. A full physical exam helps identify any signs of pain or systemic illness.

2. Faecal AnalysisA stool sample is often sent for parasitology, bacterial culture, and PCR testing. This helps rule out infectious causes.

3. Blood TestsThese assess overall health and screen for signs of infection, inflammation, or organ dysfunction.

4. Abdominal ImagingUltrasound or X-rays may be used to check for thickened bowel walls, foreign bodies, or masses.

5. Colonoscopy or BiopsyIn chronic or severe cases, your vet may recommend endoscopy or colon biopsy to diagnose IBD or other conditions.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and whether the colitis is acute or chronic. Common treatment approaches include:

1. Dietary ManagementA bland or hypoallergenic diet is often the first line of treatment. Prescription gastrointestinal diets can be soothing for inflamed colons. Browse digestive and urinary health diets here.

2. Anti-Parasitic MedicationsWormers or antiprotozoal treatments like fenbendazole or metronidazole may be prescribed by your vet depending on the diagnosis.

3. AntibioticsThese can be used when indicated if a bacterial infection is present, but not as a blanket treatment for all cases of colitis.

4. Probiotics and PrebioticsThese can help restore a healthy gut microbiome. Check out our range of cat health supplements.

5. Anti-Inflammatory or Immunosuppressive DrugsIn cases of IBD or chronic colitis, corticosteroids or other immunomodulators may be required.

6. Stress ManagementReducing household stress, using pheromone diffusers, and environmental enrichment can be vital in preventing flare-ups.

Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how to help your furry friend avoid colitis in the first place:

●      Maintain a consistent, high-quality diet and avoid abrupt changes.

●      Regular parasite prevention—especially for outdoor kitties. See options for kittens and adults here.

●      Provide a stress-free environment with hiding spaces, toys, and vertical territory.

●      Use slow transitions when changing food or introducing new pets.

●      Stay on top of vet visits for routine health checks and vaccinations.

For more tips and support, visit our cat healthcare section.

Although many cases of feline colitis tend to be mild and can often settle down with a bit of TLC, dietary adjustment, and time, there are situations where the condition could signal something more serious—and that’s when it’s important to take action quickly. If your cat’s diarrhoea persists for more than 48 hours, or if you notice blood or mucus in their stool, it’s time to pick up the phone and speak to your vet. Other worrying signs include a sudden drop in appetite, repeated vomiting, noticeable weight loss, or any symptoms of dehydration, such as sunken eyes, dry gums, or unusual lethargy. These red flags might indicate an underlying issue that goes beyond simple colitis—such as an infection, toxin exposure, or a more complex gastrointestinal disorder—which needs immediate medical intervention. The sooner you seek professional advice, the better the chances of identifying the root cause and helping your feline friend feel like themselves again.

Colitis in cats is a common but manageable condition. Whether your feline companion is a sprightly kitten or a golden oldie, knowing the signs and seeking early treatment makes a world of difference. From dietary tweaks to parasite prevention, there’s plenty you can do to keep your cat’s tummy happy.

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