Stomach Ulcers in Cats: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Stomach ulcers, while typically rare in cats, are still something owners should be aware of. While modern veterinary practices have many ways to detect these ulcers, knowing the symptoms will help you take action earlier so you can stay on top of your cat’s health and prevent any serious complications.
Key Takeaway
Stomach ulcers in cats are treatable, especially when caught early. Knowing the warning signs can make all the difference in your cat’s recovery.
What Are Stomach Ulcers?
A stomach ulcer forms in a cat when the protective mucosal lining of the stomach breaks down, exposing the deeper tissue layers to harsh gastric acid. This leads to painful mucosal defects that compromise your cat’s normal digestive function.
⚠️ Warning
If an ulcer goes unnoticed, bleeding, stomach pain, and other serious problems can take place.
Common Causes of Stomach Ulcers in Cats
Stomach ulcers can begin forming for a wide range of reasons, as they’re typically the result of another disease or physiological issue. Some of the common sources include:
- Cancers, such as gastric, pancreatic, or lymphoma
- Parasitic infections
- Presence of foreign objects
- Use of NSAIDs, such as Meloxicam
- Kidney failure
Signs to Keep an Eye Out For
Since a stomach ulcer is an internal disruption, it’s important to watch for signs that might indicate the presence of one.
| Symptom | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Vomiting | The most common sign. Blood may sometimes be present, ranging from bright red to black. |
| Decreased Appetite | Your cat may stop eating as often due to stomach pain. |
| Lethargy | Ulcers can cause your cat to feel weak and drowsy. |
| Weight Loss | Due to a lack of eating, your cat may experience noticeable weight loss. |
These symptoms will impact your cat’s daily activities, eating, and energy. If you’re noticing these signs with consistency, it’s critical to take your furry friend to the vet so they can get the care they need. Other symptoms that could be determined via tests conducted by your veterinarian include:
- Anemia – A low number of red blood cells leading to decreased oxygen distributed to organs
- Hypokalemia – An electrolyte disturbance caused by vomiting and leading to issues such as muscle weakness
- Neutrophilia – Elevated white blood cells, typically signaling tissue damage or inflammation, and causing weight loss and vomiting
How Veterinarians Diagnose Your Cat with Stomach Ulcers
If you’re noticing any symptoms in your cat, a veterinarian will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend a treatment process. First, your vet will need details about your cat and their health history, so writing down their symptoms and how long they’ve lasted can be helpful.
| 1 | Health history review – Your vet will ask about your cat’s symptoms, their duration, and your pet’s medical background |
| 2 | Blood tests – Red and white blood counts will be reviewed to determine your cat’s state and what’s causing the ulcers |
| 3 | Physical exam and ultrasound – This will provide a clear picture of what’s going on inside your cat’s body |
| 4 | X-ray (if needed) – Your vet will look for the presence of foreign objects or masses if they suspect other underlying issues are possible |
How Stomach Ulcers Are Treated in Cats
Treatment depends on the severity of stomach ulcers, but your veterinarian will most likely prescribe medication that decreases your cat’s production of stomach acid:
These medications are highly effective in healing stomach ulcers. For severe stomach ulcers, surgical intervention may also be necessary.
During treatment, your cat may need a couple of days to recover from the tests and allow the medications to work. Medications are generally recommended to be administered for at least two weeks. Along with medication, your cat will need to eat food that is bland and can be digested easily.
Promote a Healthy Lifestyle for Your Furry Friend
Now that you understand stomach ulcers and how they affect a cat’s quality of life, you’re probably wondering how you can prevent them in the first place. A few ways to decrease the chance of your cat developing stomach ulcers include:
FAQs About Stomach Ulcers in Cats
Are stomach ulcers always cancerous?
No, stomach ulcers are not always cancerous. In many cases, they’re benign and are caused by other inflammatory conditions.
What toxic plants cause stomach ulcers in cats?
Plants such as rhododendron, American persimmon, or common cocklebur can all contribute to stomach ulcers because of the gastrointestinal distress that they cause in cats. It’s important to keep these plants out of your cat’s reach!
What is the surgical process of repairing a stomach ulcer in a cat?
Surgical intervention for a stomach ulcer will involve a veterinary surgeon to remove the damaged tissue and suture the defective area closed. A biopsy of nearby organs may also be conducted to determine the cause of stomach ulcers.
Surgeons will also perform a copious peritoneal lavage to wash out the abdominal cavity before completing the surgery and closing everything up.
Pet Palace Is Here to Provide Health Tips for Your Feline Friend
When it comes to your cat’s health, we know how important it is to stay on top of things. Our blog offers various guides so you can learn everything you need to know about being a cat parent.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our team!
Categories: Cats, Pet Safety, Tips for Your Pets