Cat Stomach Gurgling: Causes, Symptoms, & Helpful Tips

Is your kitty's tummy making odd gurgling noises? You're not hearing things! A cat's gurgling stomach can be totally normal, but sometimes, it's a sign that something's off in their digestive tract.

 

We've got the scoop on why these awkward noises happen, from eating too fast to digestive upset and more serious issues. Stick around to learn the causes, signs to watch for, and tips to help ease your feline friend's tummy troubles!

 

 

Is It Normal for Cats' Stomach to Gurgle?

 

It's typical for feline stomachs to make gurgling sounds from time to time. This happens as a part of normal digestion when food, gas, and fluids move through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

 

Just like us, cats can produce abdominal sounds after eating. This is especially true if they've eaten quickly or have a sensitive stomach.

 

As long as the gurgling doesn't come with other troubling symptoms, it's usually just their digestive system at work. But if the noise becomes persistent or louder, keep an eye out for other signs that might indicate an issue.

 

 

Understanding Stomach Gurgling in Cats

Tummy gurgling in cats is essentially the sound of gas and fluids moving through their intestines during digestion. This bubbling sound can be completely normal, especially after meals, as the digestive system breaks down food.

 

But when it becomes excessive or shows up with other symptoms, it could signal something more serious. The noises you hear might indicate irritation in the digestive tract and abdominal discomfort. Understanding these sounds and their causes can help you decide when it's time to seek help.

 

Common Causes of Stomach Gurgling in Cats

A gurgling feline tummy can happen for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, it's nothing to worry about. Here are a few common causes to consider:

 

• Digestion. When food moves through the digestive tract, gas gets produced, which can cause those sounds.
• Eating Too Much or Too Quickly. If your kitty gobbles up their food too fast or eats a big meal, it can lead to excess gas and air intake, causing those bubbling noises.
• Heightened Emotional States. Emotional states like excitement can affect gut motility and cause tummy gurgling.

 

Stomach Gurgling: When It's a Concern

Pay close attention if your kitty's gurgling comes with other concerning symptoms. They may be experiencing:

 

• Gastrointestinal Disorders. Conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or pancreatitis can cause excess gas.

• Liver or Kidney Disease. These conditions can lead to fluid buildup in the abdomen, which can put pressure on the stomach.

• Food Allergies or Intolerances. Certain foods might trigger an allergic reaction and upset your cat's digestive system.

• Bloating. Excess gas or fluid in the stomach can cause it to gurgle excessively.

• Gastroenteritis. A gastrointestinal infection can cause inflammation.

• Parasites. Intestinal invaders in your cat's body, like roundworms or tapeworms, can disrupt digestion.

• Stress and Anxiety: Emotional distress can cause gastrointestinal upset, leading to gurgling and other digestive issues.

 

 

Concerning Signs to Watch for Alongside Stomach Gurgling

 

If your cat's stomach gurgles frequently, watch for other signs that might indicate something more serious. They may suggest a digestive issue that needs attention. Keep an eye on your feline friend for any of the following:

 

• Vomiting or Diarrhea. These could signal an infection, food intolerance, food poisoning, or more serious digestive issues, especially if either lasts more than a day.
• Loss of Appetite or Lethargy. A sudden drop in appetite or unusual tiredness can be a sign of discomfort or illness, requiring a vet's attention.
• Excessive Grooming or Licking the Abdomen. Cats may lick their stomachs to self-soothe if they feel digestive discomfort or irritation.
• Signs of Parasites in Stool. Visible worms or unusual stool consistency can indicate an infestation, which disrupts your cat's digestion and causes gurgling noises.
• Abnormal Stool. Changes in your cat's stool consistency, color, or shape could be linked to digestive problems that need immediate attention.
• Dehydration: Signs like dry gums, sunken eyes, or a decrease in urination can indicate your cat is dehydrated due to vomiting or diarrhea, which can be related to digestive issues.
• Abdominal Distention or Hardness: If your cat's abdomen feels swollen, hard, or painful to the touch, it could be a sign of a serious condition like bloating, constipation, or a more severe digestive disorder.
• Fever or Warm Skin: An elevated body temperature could indicate an infection or inflammation in the digestive system, such as from gastroenteritis or other infections.
• Behavioral Changes: Increased irritability, aggression, or hiding may be a sign your cat is in pain or not feeling well due to stomach discomfort. 

 

Let's dig deeper into some of these issues. Keep reading for more helpful insights!

 

Vomiting or Diarrhea

Vomiting could indicate irritation, infection, or toxins in the stomach. Meanwhile, diarrhea often points to digestive upset or infection. These issues are more concerning when they happen frequently or last for more than a day.

 

Keep your kitty hydrated and contact a vet for further evaluation. Catching digestive issues early can prevent more serious complications down the line.

 

Loss of Appetite or Lethargy

When a cat starts to also show a loss of appetite or becomes lethargic, it's a clear sign that something's wrong. Our feline friends are usually enthusiastic about their meals. So, a sudden drop in appetite, especially when paired with stomach noises, should be checked ASAP.

 

Lethargy, on the other hand, suggests that your pet is feeling unwell. If these signs accompany the stomach noises, reach out to your vet for a proper diagnosis.

 

Excessive Grooming or Licking the Abdomen

Excessive grooming or licking of the abdomen is often a response to tummy issues. Those issues can include digestive upset or abdominal discomfort. Cats may groom themselves to soothe irritation or simply because they feel uneasy.

 

When tummy gurgling appears with this kind of behavior, it might indicate an underlying digestive problem. Gas, bloating, or even parasites are possible. If your kitty's grooming habits become more frequent or intense, consult your vet to get to the bottom of the problem.

 

Signs of Parasites in Stool

Parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, or giardia can disrupt your pet's digestion. They can also cause excess gas, leading to gurgling noises in the stomach. You might notice worms, segments of worms, or an unusual consistency in your cat's stool.

 

If you see these signs, bring a stool sample to the vet. They can test it and provide the proper treatment to restore your furry friend's digestive health.

 

 

How to Remedy Stomach Gurgling in Cats

 

Addressing feline abdominal gurgling largely depends on the root cause. If it's due to something as simple as digestion or eating too quickly, adjusting their diet and meal habits can work wonders. But if it's linked to more serious issues like food allergies, infestations, or gastrointestinal disorders, you'll need to take a more targeted approach.

 

To take immediate action and help at home, start by offering smaller, more frequent meals, and try a gentle, easily digestible cat food. If the problem persists or if other symptoms develop, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

 

Best Foods for Cats with Stomach Discomfort

Go for easily digestible, high-quality food that's gentle on your kitty's tummy. Wet food is often easier for cats to digest than dry food, and it helps keep them hydrated. You can also consider special formulas designed for sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal health.

 

Look for foods that are free from artificial additives and preservatives. Also, avoid anything that could trigger food allergies or sensitivities. If the issue persists, switching to a bland diet or a vet-approved food might be necessary for better results.

 

Natural Remedies to Soothe Stomach Gurgling and Discomfort

If the issue seems mild, there are several natural remedies that may help soothe your cat's stomach gurgling and discomfort. Along with dietary changes, here are a few options to consider:

 

• Probiotics. These help restore the balance of good bacteria in the digestive tract.
• Pumpkin. High in fiber, pumpkin can help regulate digestion and ease mild abdominal upset.
• Ginger. Known for its ability to settle stomachs, a small amount of ginger can ease nausea and soreness.
• CBD. Cannabidiol has natural calming properties. It may help ease nausea, distress, and digestive discomfort in felines. It may also promote an appetite and support normal digestion.

 

If you're looking for CBD options for your kitty, check out our top CBD options for cats. They're designed to support your furry friend's digestive health and well-being. We offer CBD Cat Treats, CBD Calming Chews, CBD Oil, and CBD Capsules. They're all-natural, vet-approved, third-party lab-tested, and consumer-trusted options for your peace of mind.

 

When to Seek Veterinary Help for Stomach Gurgling

 

If your feline companion's tummy gurgling comes with other worrying symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or a loss of appetite, it could mean a more serious issue. If these issues last more than 12-24 hours, professional help is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

 

A veterinarian can perform tests such as blood work, stool samples, and imaging to rule out underlying conditions. Think infections, gastrointestinal disorders, or liver disease. Early intervention can help your kitty feel better faster and prevent any long-term digestive issues.

 

Signs You Should Contact a Veterinarian

Is your cat also showing any of the below signs? If so, time to schedule a vet visit:

 

• Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhea. If your pet can't keep food or water down, or if diarrhea continues for more than a day, call your veterinarian.
• Loss of Appetite or Weight Loss. If your cat stops eating or is losing weight without explanation, your vet can check for underlying issues.
• Lethargy or Weakness. If your kitty seems unusually tired, weak, or isn't playing, it's never a good sign.
• Visible Worms or Parasites in Stool. Finding these invaders in your cat's stool is a sign that they need treatment from a veterinarian.
• Abdominal Tenderness, Hardness, or Pain: If your cat reacts when you touch their belly or shows signs of discomfort, it could indicate a more serious digestive issue.
• Bloating or Swelling in the Abdomen: A visibly swollen abdomen could signal a serious condition, such as fluid buildup or obstruction.
• Dehydration: Signs of dehydration, like dry gums, sunken eyes, or reduced skin elasticity, are a red flag and require immediate veterinary care.
• Blood in Vomit or Stool: Vomit or stool that is tinged with blood or is black and tarry could indicate bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Changes in Behavior: If your cat is hiding more than usual, seems unusually agitated, or shows signs of pain, this could be related to a stomach issue.

 

 

Preventing Stomach Gurgling in Cats

Preventing stomach noises in cats often involves a combination of healthy eating habits and stress management. It's also very important to get your cat checked regularly by the veterinarian to catch any digestive or stomach issues before they advance. By making a few simple adjustments to your kitty's routine, you can help support their digestive health and keep those gurgling sounds at bay.

 

A balanced diet, plenty of fresh water, and mindful feeding habits can go a long way in promoting normal digestion. Also, keeping their stress levels low is just as important in maintaining a happy, healthy gut.

 

Maintaining a Healthy Diet for Cats

A healthy diet is one of the best ways to prevent tummy gurgling and support your cat's digestion. Choose high-quality cat food tailored to your pet's age, health needs, and any specific sensitivities.

 

Wet food is often a good option, as it's easier to digest and helps with hydration. Make sure to avoid foods that could trigger allergies or sensitivities, like dairy or artificial additives.

 

Also, remember to offer smaller, more frequent meals to prevent overeating and reduce the chances of stomach upset. A balanced diet, combined with plenty of fresh water, helps maintain normal digestion and keeps your kitty's tummy happy.

 

Managing Stress and Anxiety to Reduce Digestive Issues

Stress and anxiety can directly affect your cat's digestive health, leading to uncomfortable stomach noises. To help reduce distress, create a calm environment for your pet with a consistent routine. Give them plenty of quiet spaces to retreat to when they need to relax.

 

If your cat seems particularly anxious, consider using calming products like pheromone diffusers or gentle music designed to soothe them. Additionally, using CBD for mood management may help calm your kitty, reduce timid behaviors, and potentially improve digestion. HolistaPet's CBD options are specifically crafted for felines to support their digestive health and ease tension.

 

Final Thoughts on Managing Cat Stomach Gurgling

A cat's gurgling tummy is usually nothing to worry about. But if it becomes frequent or comes with other signs, it could indicate a deeper issue. By understanding the causes and symptoms, you can better care for your furry friend's digestive health.

 

Maintaining a healthy diet, managing mood, and offering natural remedies like CBD may help keep your kitty's tummy calm and comfortable. HolistaPet's natural products are a great way to support your feline companion's health. If the gurgling continues or worsens, don't hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian for further guidance.

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