Cat Gastritis

Does your cat often smell like a polecat? Do you constantly have to clean up cat vomit? If so, then your pet may have something that is very common to animals and humans alike. Your companion may have what is known as acute or chronic gastritis.

Gastritis occurs when the stomach becomes inflamed, irritated, or infected. Just like people, cats and dogs can get acute or chronic gastritis from ingesting improper foods or indigestible objects, food allergies, certain bacteria, and having weakened immune systems. The symptoms of gastritis in cats are low fever, vomiting, lack of appetite, increased thirst, and lethargy.

To obtain a conclusive diagnosis of chronic or severe gastritis, the veterinarian may need to run blood tests to rule out other illnesses, such as Parvo or Feline Leukemia. The vet may also take X-Rays to rule out indigestible objects, such as pens, toys, strings, and other small objects the cat might have accidentally swallowed. If the feline does not respond or improve while being treated, the vet may decide to do an endoscopic test (stomach examination with a biopsy of stomach tissue).

However, in the majority of cases, the cat can be treated for gastritis at home. The treatment usually consists of withholding food and limiting water for a certain period. It is followed by a diet of bland foods, such as chicken and rice.

This dietary regime is usually accompanied by dosages of antibiotics, increased fluids, anti-emetics, and anti-inflammatory medications, as well as pain relievers. Thus, chronic or severe gastritis in cats is treated very similarly to chronic or severe gastritis in humans. Like humans, cats can also be administered anti-acids, such as Tagamet or Pepto-Bismo in severe cases.

Some pet owners prefer to utilize more natural remedies and homeopathic methods of treatment. Herbalists frequently recommend using carefully select herbs such as Slippery Elm, Licorice, and Marshmallow. These herbal treatments are allegedly gentler and have less harsh side effects than prescribed medications.

Whichever method of treatment you choose, you should be aware of how to avoid the cat getting gastritis in the first place. Although you may not succeed completely, here is a list of things to do:

1. Watch what your cat eats: do not let him or her eat anything from the garbage can (especially spoiled meat), or dead animals. Pay attention to possible food allergies-avoid foods with artificial coloring, preservatives, and additives. Be aware of possible allergies to certain types of meats and dairy products. Sometimes plants and grass can get stuck in the digestive system or be toxic, so do not let your cat eat your houseplants. Ensure the cat does not ingest indigestible small objects, such as a cat toy or marble.

2. Keep the cat's water and food dishes clean and disinfected. Be sure to give the cat fresh food and water daily, to avoid bacteria build up.

3. Keep the cat combed on a regular basis to avoid hairball buildup.

4. Keep the cat on a regular schedule. Be consistent with feeding times, and type of food. Avoid changing foods, but if necessary, change the food gradually over a 5-7 day period.

5. Keep the cat's immunity shots updated. Viruses can cause gastritis, as well as more fatal diseases.

Cats are very independent creatures, and it is impossible to keep them out of harm's way completely. Hence, if you think your cat may have chronic or acute gastritis, withhold its food and water until you contact your vet. Keep the cat as relaxed and calm as you can. Follow the vet's advice as best as you can. Although gastritis is uncomfortable for the cat, it usually is not considered a medical threat except in extremely severe cases.

Learn more about this author, Penny S. Vincent.
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