Yogurt for Diarrhea in Cats

Yogurt can be a safe, effective treatment for diarrhea in cats. Yogurt can help to ease gas, fluid loss, cramping and loose stools.

Choosing a Yogurt

Cats benefit most from natural, unsweetened yogurt containing live, active cultures. Ideally, pet owners should choose lactose-free yogurts, which are easier to digest.

Mechanism

Live yogurt contains probiotics, or lactic-acid forming bacteria, that are similar to the "friendly" bacteria that naturally occur in mammals' stomachs. They can help to fight infections in the colon.

Administering Yogurt

Most cats will accept yogurt readily, but pickier eaters might prefer it mixed into wet food or seafood products.

Dosage

There is no known harm in giving a cat "too much" yogurt, but owners should ideally give the cat two to three teaspoons every six hours until symptoms abate.

When to Worry

Consult a veterinarian if your cat is showing symptoms of dehydration, the diarrhea is severe, blood is present or it persists for more than 24 hours.

References

• Book: New Choices in Natural Healing for Dogs & Cats; Amy D. Shojai; 1999