Home Remedies for Cats with Upset Stomachs
Introduction
Has your cat been vomiting, refusing food, or showing signs of nausea? Just like humans, cats can experience an upset stomach due to diet changes, hairballs, stress, or mild infections. While persistent issues require veterinary attention, some gentle home remedies can help soothe your cat’s digestive system and bring them back to feeling their best.
In this guide, we’ll cover safe, natural ways to relieve your cat’s stomach troubles at home.
Common Causes of Upset Stomach in Cats
🥩 1. Dietary Changes or Food Sensitivities
✔A sudden switch in diet can cause digestive upset.
✔Some cats are sensitive to certain proteins, grains, or dairy.
🧶 2. Hairballs
✔Frequent grooming leads to hair ingestion, which can cause vomiting or constipation.
🦠 3. Mild Stomach Infections or Parasites
✔Bacterial infections or intestinal worms can lead to diarrhea and vomiting.
🥛 4. Lactose Intolerance
✔Many cats lack the enzyme to digest dairy, leading to loose stools and stomach pain.
😿 5. Stress or Anxiety
✔Cats have sensitive stomachs, and stress can lead to nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
🚨 When to See a Vet:
✔Frequent vomiting (more than 2-3 times a day).
✔Blood in vomit or stool.
✔Lethargy, fever, or dehydration.
✔Severe diarrhea lasting over 24 hours.
Safe Home Remedies for a Cat’s Upset Stomach
🍗 1. Bland Diet: Boiled Chicken & Rice
A simple boiled chicken and rice meal can be gentle on the stomach and help firm up stools.
✔Boil boneless, skinless chicken breast (no seasonings).
✔Mix with plain white rice (1: 1 ratio).
✔Feed small portions until symptoms improve.
🚨 Avoid: Fatty meats, seasoning, or dairy-based foods.
🌿 2. Slippery Elm Bark for Digestive Relief
Slippery elm is a natural digestive soother that coats the stomach and reduces inflammation.
✔Mix ¼ teaspoon of slippery elm powder with water and add to food.
✔Helps with vomiting, diarrhea, and acid reflux.
🚨 Check with a vet before use if your cat is on medication.
🥄 3. Pumpkin for Mild Diarrhea or Constipation
Pumpkin is high in fiber and helps with both loose stools and constipation.
✔Use plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix).
✔Give ½ teaspoon per meal (small cats) or 1 teaspoon (larger cats).
🍵 4. Bone Broth for Hydration & Nutrients
If your cat refuses food, bone broth provides hydration and essential nutrients.
✔Use homemade, unsalted bone broth (chicken or beef).
✔Serve slightly warm in small amounts.
🚨 Avoid store-bought broths with onions or garlic (toxic to cats).
🌿 5. Chamomile or Ginger Tea for Nausea
Chamomile and ginger calm the stomach and reduce nausea.
✔Brew chamomile or ginger tea, let it cool, and add a few drops to food.
✔Helps with motion sickness, stress-related vomiting, and gas.
🚨 Use in moderation—only a few drops at a time!
🐟 6. Probiotics for a Healthy Gut
Probiotics help restore gut balance after stomach upset.
✔Use a vet-approved probiotic supplement or plain unsweetened yogurt (a small lick only).
✔Helps with diarrhea, bloating, and digestion.
🚨 Avoid too much dairy—cats are often lactose intolerant.
🧶 7. Hairball Control: Olive Oil or Coconut Oil
If hairballs are causing stomach upset, natural oils help move them through the digestive system.
✔Add ¼ teaspoon of olive or coconut oil to food 2-3 times per week.
✔Helps lubricate hairballs and prevent vomiting.
🚨 Avoid overuse—too much oil can cause diarrhea.
How to Prevent Future Stomach Issues in Cats
✔Introduce new foods gradually (mix with old food over a week).
✔Brush your cat regularly to reduce hairball ingestion.
✔Feed a balanced diet (high protein, low carbs, and no fillers).
✔Keep fresh water available to prevent dehydration.
✔Minimize stress (maintain routine, provide a quiet space).
Conclusion
A cat with an upset stomach can be concerning, but with the right home remedies, you can help ease their discomfort safely and naturally. Pumpkin, probiotics, bone broth, and slippery elm can support digestion and reduce nausea.
However, if symptoms persist, always consult a veterinarian. Your cat’s health and comfort are the top priority! 🐱💙
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