When is diarrhoea (loose motion) in a cat an emergency?

Call a vet straight away if: black, tarry stool or a lot of blood; very weak, collapsed or pale gums; vomiting as well and cannot keep water down.

When should my cat see a vet today?

Book a vet visit the same day if: blood or mucus in the stool; also vomiting, not eating, or hiding; a kitten or an older cat; going on for more than a day.

Can I wait and watch at home?

Usually yes, for up to a day, if: one or two soft stools after a food change; eating, drinking and active. If anything changes or worries you, book a vet.

Can I give my cat human medicine?

No. Many human medicines, including paracetamol and ibuprofen, are poisonous to dogs and cats. Only give what a vet prescribes after examining your pet.

Can a vet see my cat at home in Pune?

Yes. Sniffi's vets visit homes across Pune, or you can book a quick teleconsult first. Call +91 91751 29919 or book online.

Cat Diarrhoea: When to Call a Vet

Updated 2026-10-05. General information, not a diagnosis.

A single soft stool after a change of food is not unusual. Diarrhoea that lasts, contains blood, or comes with vomiting or weakness needs a vet, and kittens dehydrate quickly.

Not sure how serious it is? Describe it in your own words and get an answer in a minute.

Check symptoms free

Call a vet now if

Black, tarry stool or a lot of blood
Very weak, collapsed or pale gums
Vomiting as well and cannot keep water down

Call +91 91751 29919

Book a vet visit today if

Blood or mucus in the stool
Also vomiting, not eating, or hiding
A kitten or an older cat
Going on for more than a day

Usually fine to watch at home for a day if

One or two soft stools after a food change
Eating, drinking and active

Common causes of diarrhoea (loose motion) in cats

A change of food or eating something unusual
Worms and other parasites
Infections, including viruses in unvaccinated kittens
Food intolerance
Bowel inflammation and other illnesses

Only a vet who examines your cat can tell which one it is.

What you can do right now

Keep fresh water available
Keep the litter box clean so you can see what is happening
Do not give any human medicine. Paracetamol (Crocin, Dolo), ibuprofen and many others are poisonous to dogs and cats, even in small amounts.

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Questions pet parents ask

When is diarrhoea (loose motion) in a cat an emergency?: Call a vet straight away if: black, tarry stool or a lot of blood; very weak, collapsed or pale gums; vomiting as well and cannot keep water down.
When should my cat see a vet today?: Book a vet visit the same day if: blood or mucus in the stool; also vomiting, not eating, or hiding; a kitten or an older cat; going on for more than a day.
Can I wait and watch at home?: Usually yes, for up to a day, if: one or two soft stools after a food change; eating, drinking and active. If anything changes or worries you, book a vet.
Can I give my cat human medicine?: No. Many human medicines, including paracetamol and ibuprofen, are poisonous to dogs and cats. Only give what a vet prescribes after examining your pet.
Can a vet see my cat at home in Pune?: Yes. Sniffi's vets visit homes across Pune, or you can book a quick teleconsult first. Call +91 91751 29919 or book online.

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