Cat Stomach Gurgling: Causes, Signs, and How to Help Your Cat

Hearing your cat’s stomach gurgling can be alarming at first, but in many cases, it is completely normal. Cat stomach gurgling, or borborygmi, happens when gas and fluids move through the digestive tract. While occasional gurgling often requires no intervention, persistent or loud noises can signal that your cat is experiencing digestive distress. Understanding the reasons behind cat stomach gurgling and knowing when to seek veterinary care can help keep your feline friend healthy and happy.

What Causes Cat Stomach Gurgling?

Cat stomach gurgling can be triggered by several factors, ranging from minor dietary issues to more serious medical conditions. Here are some of the most common causes:

Dietary Changes or Eating Habits

Cats are creatures of habit, and sudden changes in diet can upset their digestive system. Introducing a new brand of food, treats, or human snacks may cause temporary stomach gurgling. Eating too quickly can also result in swallowed air, leading to rumbling noises. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals often helps reduce gurgling and bloating.

Food Sensitivities or Allergies

Certain ingredients, such as dairy, grains, or specific proteins, may not sit well with your cat’s stomach. Cats with food sensitivities often show signs of discomfort, including gurgling, diarrhea, or vomiting. If your cat exhibits these symptoms after eating a specific food, it may be time to adjust their diet or consult your veterinarian about hypoallergenic options.

Intestinal Parasites

Parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms can disrupt your cat’s digestion and contribute to stomach gurgling. Along with rumbling noises, infected cats may experience weight loss, a distended belly, changes in stool, or even visible worms. Routine parasite screenings and preventive treatments are essential for maintaining digestive health.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD occurs when chronic inflammation affects the intestines, leading to frequent digestive disturbances. Cats with IBD may have persistent stomach gurgling, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. This condition often requires veterinary diagnosis and ongoing treatment to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.

Stress and Environmental Changes

Cats are highly sensitive to changes in their surroundings. Moving to a new home, introducing a new pet, or even altering their feeding schedule can trigger stress-related digestive upset. Stomach gurgling, along with decreased appetite or lethargy, can be a sign that your cat is adjusting poorly to a new situation.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

More serious medical conditions such as pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism, or gastrointestinal blockages can also cause stomach gurgling. These disorders often come with additional symptoms such as vomiting, significant weight loss, or a change in behavior. Prompt veterinary evaluation is critical to identify and treat underlying medical issues.

When Cat Stomach Gurgling Signals a Problem

Occasional stomach gurgling is often harmless, but you should pay attention to other symptoms that may indicate a problem. Seek veterinary care if your cat shows any of the following signs:

• Persistent or unusually loud stomach noises
• Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than a day
• Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
• Lethargy or behavioral changes
• Visible worms in stool or abnormal stool consistency

Identifying problems early can prevent minor digestive upset from becoming a more serious (and costly) condition and can help your veterinarian create a treatment plan if needed.

Supporting Your Cat’s Digestive Health

There are several ways you can help support your cat’s digestive system and reduce stomach gurgling:

• Maintain a Consistent Diet: Feed your cat high-quality, species-appropriate food and avoid sudden changes. Gradually transition to new foods over a week or two to prevent upset.
• Avoid Table Scraps: Human food can cause digestive issues and introduce unnecessary fat or salt. Stick to your cat’s recommended diet.
• Provide Smaller, Frequent Meals: Dividing daily portions into smaller meals can reduce bloating and gurgling caused by overeating.
• Ensure Fresh Water: Adequate hydration is critical for healthy digestion and overall wellbeing.
• Minimize Stress: Create a stable environment with hiding spots and consistent routines. Stress reduction can prevent stress-related digestive issues.
• Regular Veterinary Checkups: Annual or biannual exams allow your veterinarian to monitor digestive health, screen for parasites, and detect potential problems early.

Additional Tips for Monitoring Digestive Health

Keeping an eye on your cat’s digestive habits can help you spot potential problems before they become serious. Track your cat’s bowel movements, appetite, and behavior. Notice whether stomach gurgling occurs after specific foods or stressful events. If your cat’s gurgling is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in energy levels, contact your veterinarian promptly. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and can reduce the severity of digestive problems.

Protect Your Cat with Pet Insurance

Unexpected digestive issues, including those causing cat stomach gurgling, can lead to costly veterinary bills. Pet insurance helps cover treatment costs for digestive disorders, routine checkups, and emergency care. Investing in pet insurance ensures you can provide the care your cat needs without worrying about finances. Explore options today to find the best plan for your feline companion and give them the protection they deserve.

Final Thoughts

Cat stomach gurgling is often a normal part of digestion and can occur even in healthy cats. However, persistent gurgling or accompanying symptoms may indicate an underlying health problem. By paying attention to your cat’s digestive habits, providing a consistent diet, minimizing stress, and consulting your veterinarian when necessary, you can help keep your cat happy and healthy. Adding pet insurance to your plan ensures that unexpected digestive issues are covered, giving you peace of mind while caring for your furry friend.

References:

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/gastroenteritis-in-cats

https://www.catster.com/cat-health-care/why-is-my-cats-stomach-gurgling/

https://www.hillspet.com/cat-care/healthcare/understanding-why-my-cats-stomach-gurgles

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.