Gastroenteritis

Thank you for boarding your cat with us! We are passionate about caring for cats, and our mission is to treat your cat just as we would like to have our own cats are treated.

As cozy as our boarding room is, it’s still not home as your cat knows it. Cats are prey animals by nature and are easily stressed by any change in their routine. Adapting to a new space requires time. Some cats adapt faster and better than others. Some may appear to be comfortable in the new space, but may not eat (they don’t want to create waste which could attract predators) and some eat, but get an upset tummy. This condition is what is known as stress related gastroenteritis. Stress is defined as any threat- perceived or real- that threatens the homeostasis of a living organism.

The scientific evidence of gastroenteritis looks a little like this:

● Changes in gastric secretion
● Gut motility
● Mucosal permeability
● Barrier function
● Visceral sensitivity
● Mucosal blood flow

What does all of that mean? It means that when cats experience changes in their routine they feel stressed. When they feel stressed they sometimes get a tummy ache. That tummy ache can manifest as inappetence, vomiting and/ or diarrhea.
It may last for a day, it may last for a few days, but it is something that will pass.

The big question is: when should I take my cat to a vet.

● Vomiting and diarrhea occur together
● Blood in vomit or diarrhea
● Vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than two days
● Cat appears listless
● Multiple bouts of vomiting or diarrhea over a short period of time
● Cat trying to vomit unsuccessfully (sometimes with profuse drool)
● Distended abdomen or bloating
● Abdomen tender to the touch
● Labored breathing

Please keep in mind that taking your cat to the vet is also very stressful and can extend the symptoms. Please call us if you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter. Our number is 425-307-1008. We also have a vet on site every Wednesday if you do need an Appointment.