Help! Wet Food Causes My Cat Diarrhea! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
"Hi Dr. Paola,
My name is Lulu, and I own a feline. He is my little buddy, Belito. I would like to know why the wet canned cat food I have been feeding for four months or so now causes him diarrhea. The brand name of the cat food is ‘I and Love and You’ grain-free recipe. Should I look into switching his food?" - Lulu
Quick Info about Belito
Hi Lulu.
If Belito has been eating the same canned diet for about four months and the diarrhea appeared only recently, the food itself becomes less likely to be the primary cause. When a cat develops loose stool after tolerating a diet well for several months, it is similar to a person who has eaten the same breakfast every day for years and suddenly develops stomach upset. We would first look for something new in the environment rather than blaming the breakfast. In cats, common explanations include intestinal parasites, a change in treats or table foods, stress in the household, ingestion of something unusual, or shifts in the intestinal microbiome.
Food intolerance can develop over time, but it is not the first explanation when a diet has been stable for months. In these situations, evaluating a fresh fecal sample is often the most practical starting point because parasites such as Giardia or Tritrichomonas can cause persistent diarrhea in otherwise bright, active cats. If the diarrhea becomes watery, contains blood, or Belito shows decreased appetite or energy, a prompt in-person veterinary visit would be the safest next step.
Sincerely,
- Dr. Paola