When your cat has diarrhea, it can be really stressful and worrying. Not only does your beloved pet suffer, but all the mess that comes with it can be hard to deal with.
If it gets out of control, your cat may become lethargic, lose weight and even become dehydrated. That’s why taking steps to treat your cat’s diarrhea right away is important.
While acute diarrhea usually resolves itself within a few days, it can sometimes be a sign of more serious underlying conditions. It’s always a good idea to check with your vet for advice when it comes to caring for your cat’s diarrhea.
Another way to help manage your cat’s diarrhea is through appropriate nutrition that supports your kitty’s sensitive stomach.
The right cat food can help your pet feel better and get back on track quickly. But with so many cat food brands available, it can be tricky to pick which is best for diarrhea.
Our top choice is Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Natural Chicken Adult Dry Cat Food.
It is filled with real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, supplemented with wholesome fruits and veggies to provide natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It also contains prebiotics to aid digestive health.
But If your cat loves wet, grain-free food, we have included that in our list too. Read on to see all the best cat food for diarrhea that we have rounded up and find the perfect one for your beloved friend.
Our Top 8 Picks: Best Dry Cat Food For Diarrhea
- Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Adult Dry Cat Food (Best Overall Food)
- Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Dry Cat Food (Best Prescription Food)
- Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Cat Food (Best Clinical Food)
- Purina ONE +Plus Adult Dry Cat Food (Best High Protein Food)
- Purina Pro Plan Chicken & Rice Formula Cat Food ( Best Dry Food)
- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Chicken & Rice Recipe Dry Cat Food (Best Premium Food)
- Taste of the Wild Rocky Mountain Grain-Free Dry Cat Food (Best Grain Free Food)
- ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Cat Food (Best for all Life Stages)
Best Dry Cat Food For Diarrhea And Loose Stools Reviewed
All the dry cat food options we have chosen are made with high-quality ingredients that help support a sensitive stomach and promote digestive health.
They all follow the AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Remember to consult your veterinarian before making major changes to your cat’s diet, especially for cats with diarrhea or loose stool.
Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Adult Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 32.0% Crude Protein, 16.0% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 9% Moisture
Caloric Content: 422 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Sensitive Digestion, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, With Grain, Natural
Pros
- Supports sensitive digestion with prebiotics
- Contains real chicken as the first ingredient
- Contains natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- No corn, wheat, or soy ingredients
Cons
- Only one flavor of this food is available
Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Natural Chicken Adult Dry Cat Food is specially designed for cats with sensitive stomachs.
It contains real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, supplemented with wholesome fruits and veggies like cranberries to provide natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
This food also has prebiotics that helps support healthy bacteria in the gut and aid digestive health.
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 29.0% Crude Protein, 13.0% Crude Fat, 4.7% Crude Fiber, 8% Moisture
Caloric Content: 362 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn, Chicken Fat, Corn Gluten Meal
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Pea-Free, Veterinary Diet, Sensitive Digestion, With Grain
Pros
- Enriched with proteins and prebiotics
- Promotes digestive health and optimal stool quality
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals for cats with sensitive stomachs
- Rich in soluble and insoluble fiber for improved digestion and nutrient absorption
- Prevents crystal formation and promotes urinary tract health
Cons
- Needs a vet’s prescription
- Expensive compared to other food brands
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Dry Cat Food is an excellent option if you are looking for a vet-prescribed solution to your cat’s diarrhea.
It is formulated with soluble and insoluble fibers that help promote digestive health and optimal stool quality.
The added prebiotics help to support the growth of beneficial bacteria in your cat’s digestive system so that they can absorb all the essential vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy diet.
Plus, this food helps prevent crystal formation and keeps your pet’s urinary tract healthy. The only drawback is that it needs a vet prescription and may be pricier than other brands.
Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 35.0% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 8% Moisture
Caloric Content: 498 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Corn Gluten Meal, Brewers Rice, Pork Fat
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult, Kitten, Senior
Key Feature: Pea-Free, Veterinary Diet, Sensitive Digestion, With Grain
Pros
- Added antioxidants for a healthy immune system
- High-quality protein for muscle development and repair
- Contains soluble and insoluble fibers to support healthy digestion
- Clinically proven to help improve your cat’s digestion and stool quality
Cons
- Needs a vet’s prescription
Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Cat Food offers excellent nutrition, palatability, and unique benefits, making it ideal for cats with loose stools.
One of such benefits is the presence of soluble and insoluble fibers essential for healthy digestion. Additionally, the high-quality protein helps to promote muscle development and repair.
It also contains plenty of antioxidants to support your cat’s immune system and keep them healthy. However, this food requires a vet’s prescription before purchase.
Purina ONE +Plus Adult Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 34.0% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
Caloric Content: 449 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Chicken By-Product Meal, Rice Flour, Corn Gluten Meal, Soybean Meal
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: High-Protein, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Natural, With Grain
Pros
- Enriched with prebiotics for better digestion and absorption of nutrients
- A high-protein diet with real turkey as the first ingredient
- Contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to promote overall health
- Includes omega-6 acids for healthy skin and coat
- Easy-to-digest formula
Cons
- Contains Chicken By-Product Meal and may not be ideal for cats with chicken allergies
Purina ONE +Plus Adult Dry Cat Food is a high-protein cat food specially formulated to help cats with sensitive stomachs and diarrhea. The first ingredient is real turkey, an excellent source of protein.
This formula also contains prebiotics to aid digestion and absorption of nutrients. It includes vitamins, minerals, antioxidants to promote overall health, and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
The easy-to-digest formula makes it a great choice for cats with sensitive stomachs. However, it contains chicken by-product meal, so it may not be ideal for cats with chicken allergies.
Purina Pro Plan Chicken & Rice Formula Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 36.0% Crude Protein, 16.0% Crude Fat, 2.0% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
Caloric Content: 494 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Poultry By-product Meal, Wheat Flour
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: High-Protein, With Grain
Pros
- Enriched with high-quality protein for muscle maintenance
- Added natural prebiotics to promote digestive health
- Supplemented with a high level of antioxidants for a healthy immune system
- Packed with vitamin A and omega-6 acids
Cons
- Expensive compared to other brands of dry cat food
Purina Pro Plan Chicken & Rice Formula Cat Food is a special blend of high-quality ingredients that help provide balanced nutrition and support digestive health.
It contains real chicken as the first ingredient, supplemented with rice, corn gluten meal, and wheat flour for energy and muscle maintenance.
The formula also includes prebiotics to help promote optimal digestion for cats with sensitive stomachs. It also contains vitamin A, omega-6 fatty acids, and antioxidants to help maintain a healthy immune system.
The delicious taste of the food will surely make your cat meow for more.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Chicken & Rice Recipe Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 29.0% Crude Protein, 17.0% Crude Fat, 3.0% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 524 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Brewers Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Corn
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Sensitive Digestion, Pea-Free, With Grain
Pros
- Highly digestible and gentle on your cat’s stomach
- Contains real chicken as the first ingredient
- Provides key vitamins and minerals for overall health and immune support
- Contains omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidants to help promote healthy skin and coat
- Does not require a vet’s prescription
Cons
- Pricey compared to other brands
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Chicken & Rice Recipe Dry Cat Food is ideal for cats with diarrhea. The dry formula contains prebiotics to aid digestive health and is gentle on your cat’s sensitive stomach.
It provides key vitamins, minerals, omega-6 fatty acids, and antioxidants for overall health and immune support.
This food is made of easily digestible ingredients allowing your cat’s stomach to process it quickly, which can lead to a speedy stool pick-up.
Taste of the Wild Rocky Mountain Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 42.0% Crude Protein, 18.0% Crude Fat, 3.0% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 425 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Pea Protein
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Grain-Free, High-Protein
Pros
- Protein-rich recipe for healthy muscle growth and development
- Grain-free for cats with grain sensitivities
- Fortified with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support immune health
- Formulated with omega fatty acids for shiny skin & coat
Cons
- Not suitable for overweight cats
Taste of the Wild Rocky Mountain Dry Cat Food is a grain-free option for cats with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
This product contains probiotics that support digestive health and omega fatty acids for a glossy coat. Moreover, it is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health and well-being.
ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 40% Crude Protein, 20% Crude Fat, 3% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 425 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Whole Mackerel, Turkey Giblets (Liver, Heart, Gizzard), Flounder
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Grain-Free, High-Protein, Gluten Free, Natural, Raw, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Premium
Pros
- Premium natural ingredients to support healthy digestion
- This grain-free formula helps reduce gastrointestinal upset
- Protein-rich formula for strong muscle development
- Added probiotics help support digestive health
- Added pumpkin to help add bulk to stool
- Suitable for cats of all ages
Cons
- Cat parents complain formula may have changed recently
ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Cat Food is made with premium ingredients and helps reduce gastrointestinal upset.
It has added probiotics to support digestive health in addition to pumpkin, which adds bulk to the stool. The formula is protein-rich and helps muscle development, maintenance, and repair.
However, some cat parents have complained that the formula may have changed recently, so it’s important to watch how your cat responds.
Our Top 4 Picks: Best Wet Cat Food For Diarrhea & Sensitive Stomach
Our team of cat owners took the time to research the market thoroughly and carefully selected four top-rated wet cat foods for diarrhea.
These products are made with natural ingredients and high-quality proteins, offering your feline all their nutritional needs while being gentle on their sensitive stomach.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Wet Cat Food (Best Wet Food)
- Royal Canin Feline Care Thin Slices in Gravy Canned Cat Food (Best for Weight Control)
- Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult 11+ Canned Cat Food (Best for Seniors)
- Wellness Complete Health Kitten Canned Wet Cat Food (Best for Kittens)
Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Wet Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 5% Crude Protein, 3% Crude Fat, 1.2% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 78 kcal/2.9 oz can
First 5 Ingredients: Water, Chicken, Pork Liver, Carrots, Wheat Gluten
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Stew
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Pea-Free, Veterinary Diet, Sensitive Digestion
Pros
- Clinically formulated for cats with digestive issues
- Made with highly digestible ingredients that are easier to digest and absorb
- Contains high levels of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals
- Contains both soluble and insoluble fibers to support healthy digestion
- Suitable for adults and kittens
Cons
- Requires a vet’s prescription before purchase
- Pricey compared to other brands
Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Wet Cat Food is a great choice for cats with digestive issues. Its high-quality ingredients are formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition while being easier on the digestive system.
It also contains increased electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals that help support your cat’s gastrointestinal health. The wet food texture is perfect for cats who might be unable to digest dry food or recovering from surgery.
Royal Canin Feline Care Thin Slices in Gravy Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 7.5% Crude Protein, 2.0% Crude Fat, 1.7% Crude Fiber, 82.5% Moisture
Caloric Content: 67 kcal ME/can
First 5 Ingredients: Water Sufficient For Processing, Pork By-Products, Chicken, Chicken Liver
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Chunks in Gravy
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Sensitive Digestion, Pea-Free
Pros
- Highly digestible proteins to support easy digestion and optimal stool quality
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals for overall health
- Formulated to promote a healthy weight
- Soft chunks in gravy for a flavorful and appealing texture
Cons
- Expensive compared to other foods
Royal Canin Feline Care Thin Slices in Gravy Canned Cat Food is made with highly digestible proteins, vitamins, minerals, and insoluble fibers.
This formula helps to support easy digestion and optimal stool quality. Plus, the soft chunks in gravy make it incredibly flavorful and appealing.
However, it is more expensive than other cat food options. Plus, it contains some pork by-products, which may not be suitable for all cats.
Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult 11+ Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 6% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 78.0% Moisture
Caloric Content: 95 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Liver, Water, Meat By-Products, Beef
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Pate
Life Stage: Senior
Key Feature: High-Protein
Pros
- Highly digestible sources of protein to help support sensitive stomachs
- Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to help support overall wellness
- Delicious pate taste that cats love
- Tailored to meet the nutritional needs of cats 11+ years
Cons
- Cat parents complain formula may have changed recently
- May not be suitable for cats with fish allergies
The Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult 11+ Canned Cat Food is specifically designed with the nutritional needs of senior cats in mind.
It is high in protein, packed with antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins to help support overall wellness. It contains highly digestible animal proteins to help support a sensitive stomach and promote digestive health.
The one thing about this product that may be a concern is that it may not be suitable for cats with fish allergies.
Wellness Complete Health Kitten Canned Wet Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 11.0% Crude Protein, 6.0% Crude Fat, 1.0% Crude Fiber, 78.0% Moisture
Caloric Content: 197 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Broth, Carrots, Natural Flavor
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Food Texture: Pate
Life Stage: kitten
Key Feature: Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Pea-Free, Natural
Pros
- High-quality protein from real chicken is the main ingredient for strong muscles
- Grain-free and pea-free to help reduce common food allergies
- Enriched with DHA for healthy brain and vision development
- Easily digestible ingredients to provide sensitive stomachs with an ideal diet
- The perfect formula for growing kittens
Cons
- Not many flavors are available
Wellness Complete Health Kitten Canned Wet Cat Food is an ideal choice if you’re looking for high-quality wet cat food to help your kitten with a sensitive stomach.
It has all the essential nutrients kittens need for healthy growth and development. Plus, it’s grain-free and pea-free, which makes it an ideal option for kittens prone to allergies.
It also contains DHA for healthy brain and vision development. The only downside is that it’s a bit pricey compared to other brands, which might deter some cat parents.
What to Look for When Buying the Best Cat Food for Soft Stools
When choosing the best cat food for your cat’s diarrhea, here are the most important ingredients to look for:
- Prebiotics & Probiotics: Your cat’s stomach needs healthy bacteria to keep their digestive system running smoothly. Prebiotics and probiotics help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in your cat’s gut and aid in digestion, which can help reduce diarrhea symptoms.
- Rich in Fiber: Fiber helps your cat’s digestive system to function properly and can help with diarrhea. They soak up the extra liquid in the intestines, reducing loose stools. Some natural sources of fiber include pumpkin and cranberries.
- Quality Protein Sources: Opt for quality protein sources such as real chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, beef, or lamb. These high-quality proteins can help promote a healthy digestive system and reduce diarrhea symptoms.
- Grain Free: Cats can have a hard time digesting grains. Grains can cause an upset stomach which could lead to diarrhea. If you suspect your cat is sensitive to grains, it’s best to feed them grain-free cat food.
- Natural or Organic Food: Natural or organic cat food is made with high-quality ingredients and has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Natural cat food will provide your pet with a balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, that can help reduce diarrhea symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wet or Dry Food Better for Cats with Diarrhea?
Both wet and dry food can work for cats with diarrhea. It depends on your cat’s individual preferences and your budget. Some cats prefer wet food, while others do better with dry food.
If your cat is severely dehydrated, wet food may be the best option as it contains more moisture than dry.
However, if your cat tends to have diarrhea frequently, dry food may be the better option as it will add bulk to stools. Talk to your vet to determine the best option for you and your cat.
Is Cat Diarrhea Contagious to Other Cats?
If your cat has a bacterial or viral infection causing diarrhea, it could be spread through contact with fecal matter or contaminated objects. Other causes of diarrhea, such as dietary intolerance or allergy, are not contagious.
Do I Always Need to take my Cat to the Vet if She Has Diarrhea?
No. In some cases, the cause of diarrhea can be dietary-related and easily remedied with a change in diet or better nutrition. However, some cases of diarrhea may require medical attention and could indicate a more serious health issue.
If your cat has severe diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours with no improvement, it is best to seek veterinary care.
How Long will it take my Cat to Become Dehydrated due to Diarrhea?
It can take as little as a few hours for cats to become dehydrated due to diarrhea. Most cats do not drink enough water, so if they have diarrhea, it can quickly lead to dehydration.
keep your cat well hydrated and watch for signs of dehydration such as reduced energy levels, dry mouth, and sunken eyes. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Our Verdict
The above list of cat foods are made with quality ingredients and provide your cat with all the essential nutrients they need to make their stool firm and regular quickly.
Our recommendation is Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Natural Chicken Adult Dry Cat Food.
This high-protein formula is made with wholesome ingredients full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It contains probiotics to aid digestion and is tailored to meet the nutritional needs of cats with sensitive stomachs. Plus, it has a great taste that cats love!
But that is not all. The other options are great too. Whether you have a picky cat or want to save a few bucks, you will definitely find a formula that will help your cat’s diarrhea and make them healthier.