Colitis in cats is inflammation of the large intestine (colon). It can cause diarrhea, straining, and discomfort, leaving many pet parents worried about what to feed their cats during flare-ups.
If your cat has been diagnosed or is showing symptoms, you might be wondering: “What should I feed a cat with colitis?”
Here’s a practical guide to the best foods and feeding strategies for colitis management.
Understanding Colitis in Cats
Colitis can be triggered by:
- Stress
- Food intolerance or allergy
- Sudden diet changes
- Parasites or infections
- Chronic inflammatory conditions
Symptoms usually include:
- Loose stools or diarrhea
- Mucus or blood in stool
- Frequent trips to the litter box
- Straining while defecating
Colitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Diet plays an important role in managing both.

Nutritional Goals for Cats with Colitis
The right food should:
- Be highly digestible to reduce stress on the gut.
- Provide moderate protein from high-quality sources.
- Include fiber to support stool formation.
- Avoid common allergens and unnecessary fillers.
Best Foods for Cats with Colitis
1. Veterinary Prescription Diets
- Hill’s i/d, Royal Canin Gastrointestinal, or Purina EN are commonly prescribed.
- These diets are designed to soothe sensitive stomachs and normalize stools.
2. Limited-Ingredient Diets (LID)
- Contain only one protein and one carbohydrate source.
- Novel proteins (duck, rabbit, venison) reduce the chance of allergic reactions.
3. High-Fiber Foods
- Fiber helps regulate bowel movements.
- Some cats benefit from added psyllium husk, pumpkin, or beet pulp.
- Always introduce fiber gradually.
4. Wet Food Options
- Provide moisture to prevent dehydration.
- Pâté-style foods are gentler on sensitive digestive systems.
Homemade Food for Colitis Cats (Vet-Guided)
If commercial foods don’t work, a vet may suggest a homemade trial diet:
- Boiled chicken or turkey (no seasoning).
- Plain pumpkin or sweet potato for fiber.
- A veterinary supplement to balance vitamins and minerals.
Homemade diets must be carefully monitored to avoid deficiencies. Make sure you follow AVMA guidelines.
Feeding Tips for Cats with Colitis
- Small, frequent meals are easier to digest than large portions.
- Avoid rapid food changes—transition gradually over 7–10 days.
- Keep stress low—stress is a known trigger for colitis.
- Ensure hydration—especially if diarrhea is frequent.
Foods to Avoid
- Dairy products (can worsen diarrhea).
- High-fat or greasy foods.
- Raw meat or fish (risk of bacteria and parasites).
- Foods with artificial additives or multiple protein sources.
When to See the Vet
Call your veterinarian if your cat shows:
- Blood in stool that doesn’t resolve.
- Severe or persistent diarrhea.
- Weight loss or poor appetite.
- Signs of dehydration (lethargy, dry gums).
Chronic colitis often requires long-term management with both diet and medication.
Final Thoughts
So, what should you feed a cat with colitis?
The best options are vet-prescribed gastrointestinal diets, limited-ingredient foods, and moisture-rich wet foods. Adding small amounts of fiber may help, but always work closely with your vet to find the right diet.
At Petsaw, we believe that food is medicine. With the right nutrition and care, cats with colitis can regain comfort, stability, and a healthier daily life.
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