Veterinary Treatment for Gastritis in Cats
Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining that can be acute or chronic in cats. It presents a variety of symptoms ranging from mild digestive upset to severe illness. Veterinary intervention plays a crucial role in diagnosing and effectively treating this condition.
Common Symptoms of Gastritis in Cats
- Vomiting (possibly with bile, food, or blood)
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal discomfort
- Lethargy and dehydration
- Weight loss and diarrhea
- Melena (black, tarry stool)
- Excessive drooling or lip licking
- Behavioral changes such as hiding
- Fever in some cases
Diagnosing Gastritis
Veterinarians begin diagnostics with a detailed medical history and a physical examination. This is often followed by:
- Blood tests (CBC, serum biochemistry)
- Urinalysis and fecal testing
- Abdominal imaging (X-ray, ultrasounds)
- Endoscopy and biopsies for chronic cases
- Allergy testing if food sensitivities are suspected
Treatment Approaches
The treatment a vet prescribes depends on the cause and severity of gastritis. Options typically include:
Supportive Care for Mild Acute Gastritis
- Fasting for 8–24 hours to rest the stomach
- Bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice
- Gradual reintroduction of the regular diet
- Probiotic supplements for gut health
- Anti-nausea medications like maropitant
- Gastroprotectants like sucralfate
- Acid reducers such as famotidine or omeprazole
- Pain relief if stand-alone analgesia is necessary
Advanced Care for Severe or Chronic Gastritis
- IV or subcutaneous fluids to treat dehydration
- Further diagnostics to uncover root causes
- Surgical or endoscopic removal of foreign bodies
- Anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs for IBD-type conditions
- Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is confirmed
- Special diets such as hypoallergenic or novel protein foods
When to Seek Immediate Care
Veterinarians recommend urgent care if a cat:
- Vomits for more than 24 hours
- Shows blood in vomit (fresh or digested)
- Is weak, lethargic, or stops eating and drinking
- Is very young, elderly, or has pre-existing conditions
- Exhibits signs of severe distress or pain
Preventive Strategies
To reduce the risk of gastritis:
- Feed a consistent, high-quality diet
- Minimize sudden dietary changes
- Keep toxins and irritants away (cleaners, plants, meds)
- Groom regularly to manage hairballs
- Provide parasite prevention regularly
- Minimize household stress
Prognosis and Long-Term Management
Acute gastritis generally resolves in 1–3 days with care. For chronic gastritis, vets may recommend long-term dietary control, medications, and regular check-ups to manage symptoms and monitor underlying diseases. Identifying and targeting the root cause ensures the best outcomes for long-term health.
With timely veterinary intervention, most cats with gastritis recover fully, especially with attentive home care and dietary management.
