Can Fleas Cause Diarrhea in Cats?
WouterA common question that a cat owner may have is, “Can fleas cause diarrhea in cats?” There are several possible explanations for this ailment, and the first one is that fleas are blood-sucking parasites. Fleas feed by inserting their mouthparts into the skin and feeding on blood that travels in capillaries. This can cause significant blood loss and a condition called anemia, which leads to poor oxygen supply to vital organs. In severe cases, it can even lead to organ failure and death.
Another potential cause of diarrhea in cats is the presence of tapeworms. Tapeworms are a common feline health issue. They live in the cat’s small intestine and can grow up to 2 feet long. They are segmented and break apart when they are expelled, so most often, cat owners will see only segments of the worms.
In addition to diarrhea, fleas can cause other serious health problems in your cat. They can transmit bartonellosis and anemia. If you suspect your cat may have this condition, be sure to consult your veterinarian. Cats are often exposed to infected fleas from other animals.
When fleas infect cats, you should make your cat as comfortable as possible. Try to avoid the environment where fleas can lay their eggs. Flea eggs can stay dormant for months before hatching. Luckily, there are several preventive measures that can be taken to eliminate the problem before it worsens.
