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Flatulence (Passing Gas) in Cats

Cats who frequently pass gas can embarrass or distress their owners. Flatulence is caused by eating highly fermentable foods, such as beans, cauliflower, cabbage, and soybeans; drinking large quantities of milk; and swallowing large amounts of air during meals. Diets high in carbohydrates and fiber contribute to it. Flatulence also occurs with malabsorption. This is related to incomplete digestion of carbohydrates.

Treatment: It’s important to first rule out any malabsorption syndrome. Change the cat’s food to a highly digestible, low-fiber diet, and avoid giving table scraps. If dietary manipulation fails to control the problem, switch from commercial food to a highly digestible prescription diet, such as Science Diet i/d or one of the diets for food allergy or intolerance. Low-carbohydrate diets are often helpful. Free feed to prevent greedy eating and gulping air, unless your cat is overweight. A medication combining simethicone and activated charcoal (Flatulex) is available for people and can be used in cats. This medication should not be given to cats with liver or kidney problems.

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Skin Problems in Cats

The condition of your cat’s skin is an indication of her overall health. When a skin problem occurs, your cat may respond with excessive scratching, chewing and/or licking. A wide range of causes-from external parasites and allergies to seasonal changes and stress, or a combination of these-may be affecting your cat’s skin and should be investigated. Skin problems are one of the most common reasons pet parents seek veterinary care.

Read the Skin Problems in Cats article > >

Overweight cats are more likely to suffer from flatulence, so work on weight control and provide plenty of exercise.

WebMD Veterinary Reference from "Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook"

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