Cat Poop: All You Need To Know

Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee

It might not be the most pleasant topic, but understanding your cat's poop is an important part of monitoring their overall health. Regularly observing your cat's litter box habits can give you insights into their diet, digestive health and well-being.

Find out what's normal for your cat's poop, what to look for, common causes of stomach issues and how to keep your cat's digestive system in tip-top shape.

What's Normal Cat Poop?

A healthy cat's poop is typically brown in color and has a firm, formed texture, similar to a log, though not too hard.¹ A mild odor is normal—after all, poop isn't supposed to smell like roses, but it shouldn't be overpowering either. If your cat's poop consistently looks like this, it's a positive sign of good health.

The ideal poop is well-formed but not too dry. If it's too dry or hard, your cat might be constipated, while watery stools might indicate diarrhea. Any major changes in shape, color or smell may be signs to explore further.

How Often Should Cats Poop?

On average, cats poop once or twice a day, but the frequency can vary.¹ Kittens, for example, tend to poop more often due to their higher metabolism and need for more food. If you monitor your pet's toileting habits, you'll soon know what's normal for your cat, which can help you identify any changes or potential problems.

Any sudden changes in frequency could indicate a health issue. If your cat stops pooping or has diarrhea for more than 48 hours, it's time to see the vet.²

Common Colors of Cat Poop and What They Mean

The color of your cat's poop can tell you a lot about their health. Here are some common colors you might notice and what each might indicate:¹

• Dark brown: This is normal and signifies healthy digestion.
• Black or tarry: This could be a sign of internal bleeding, as digested blood appears black. If you notice this, consult a vet immediately.
• Green: Green poop can indicate your cat is eating too much grass or has a gastrointestinal issue, such as a parasite.
• Yellow: Yellow stool could mean an issue with your cat's liver or gallbladder. A vet visit is recommended.
• White or gray: These colors can be linked to digestive problems, particularly with fat digestion. They could also indicate liver or pancreatic issues. White spots can be signs of parasites or worms.

Always consult a vet if you notice any abnormal colors that persist, especially black or tarry stool, which is a serious concern.¹

Poop Consistency and Texture: What's Ideal and What's Not

Healthy cat poop should be firm but not too dry. A well-formed stool that holds its shape but is not rock-hard is a good sign. If your cat's poop is:¹

• Firm and formed: This is ideal. It indicates a healthy digestive system.
• Loose or watery: Watery stool might suggest diarrhea, which could be caused by dietary changes, infection or parasites.
• Hard or small pellets: Hard, dry stools might indicate constipation. Cats with hard stools might strain, which can lead to discomfort or more severe health issues over time—especially in older cats.

If your cat consistently has abnormal poop consistency, it could be a sign of a health problem. Consult your vet.

Litter Box Basics: What To Expect and Tips for Success

Cats are particular pets. Each cat has preferences when it comes to their litter box, and it's essential to meet these needs for optimal health. The box should be placed in a quiet, low-stress area where your cat can use it comfortably.

• Litter preferences: Some cats have strong preferences for certain types of litter—whether it's clumping or non-clumping , scented or unscented. Try different types until you find one your cat likes.
• Signs of discomfort: If your cat is excessively digging or yowling in the litter box, she may be uncomfortable with the setup or have a health problem.
• Cleanliness: Cats are fastidious creatures, so it's essential to clean the box regularly. A dirty litter box may discourage your cat from using it and could even lead to accidents outside the box.

Signs of Concern for Cat Poop

While it's normal for your cat's poop to change slightly from time to time, some changes may require veterinary attention. Look out for:

• Blood or mucus in stool: Blood in the stool could indicate internal bleeding or an infection, while mucus could point to intestinal issues.¹
• Prolonged diarrhea or constipation: If your cat has diarrhea or constipation for more than 48 hours, it's time to visit the vet.²
• Sudden change in color, consistency or smell: If you notice any significant changes that don't resolve in a day or two, consult your vet.
• Frequent vomiting or lethargy: If vomiting or lethargy accompanies changes in stool, it could indicate a more severe issue like a gastrointestinal infection or poisoning.³
• Refusal to use litter box: A cat suddenly refusing to use their litter box or showing signs of pain while going could indicate a urinary or digestive problem.⁴

Common Causes of Stomach Problems in Cats

Several common factors could affect your cat's stool quality:

• Dietary sensitivities: Food allergies, intolerances or sudden diet changes can upset your cat's stomach and affect their stool.
• Parasites: Intestinal parasites like worms are common culprits for causing digestive distress in kittens and outdoor cats.¹
• Hairballs: Cats often ingest hair when grooming, which can sometimes cause vomiting or constipation, leading to stool problems.

When Poop Smell Becomes a Concern

The typical odor of cat poop is mildly unpleasant, but some cats have particularly smelly stools. If the smell becomes extremely foul and persists, it could indicate an infection, digestive issue or poor diet. Excessive odor warrants a vet visit for a thorough evaluation.

Litter Box Habits: Behavioral Changes and What They Mean

Cats communicate a lot through their litter box habits. Going outside the box, not covering their poop, straining, hiding or showing discomfort while using the litter box are signs to watch for. These behaviors could indicate:

• Urinary issues: Straining to urinate or defecate could suggest urinary tract problems or constipation.
• Digestive issues: A change in the consistency of poop or how often a cat uses the box could signal gastrointestinal issues.
• Stress: Cats might avoid the litter box or behave differently if they're stressed.
  

Any change in litter box behavior should prompt a vet checkup.

Tips for Managing and Monitoring Cat Poop Health

Maintaining good litter box hygiene is essential for monitoring your cat's health and making them feel comfortable. Regular cleaning allows you to observe any changes in your cat's stool and catch problems early. Also, make sure your cat stays hydrated and eats a balanced diet to promote healthy digestion.

Your cat's poop offers valuable insights into their health. Monitoring their litter box habits can help you detect issues early and seek veterinary care before a minor problem becomes severe.

Pets Best Is Here To Help

Purchasing cat insurance may help you get the care your kitty needs for accidents, illnesses and routine appointments. Keep an eye on your cat's poop and remember to consult your vet if you notice any changes. And as a Pets Best policyholder, you can call our 24/7 Pet Helpline to get expert advice on your cat's health needs at any time.

Sources/ Citations

1. “Cat Poop Color: What Is Your Cat's Poop Telling You?" (11/2022), Bond Vet, bondvet.com/b/cat-poop-color-what-is-your-cats-poop-telling-you
2. “The Scoop on Cat Poop," Hilary Parker (3/2023), WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/pets/cats/the-scoop-on-cat-poop
3. “Vomiting," (2021), Cornell Feline Health Center, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/vomiting
4. “Litter Box Problems," (n.d.), ASPCA, https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/common-cat-behavior-issues/litter-box-problems