Do Cats Fart? What You Need to Know About Cat Flatulence

You're cuddling with your cat on the sofa, watching television, typing on your laptop. Suddenly, you smell something unpleasant. You instantly realize that the nasty scent is coming from your cat! When that smell hits your nose you probably won't wonder if cats fart anymore — it's a little too clear now. So do cats fart? Yes! Now, what is the best cat gas remedy?

While farting here and there, it is normal for our feline friends, it's still something you need to keep an eye — or nostril — on. Sometimes excessive gas can be a sign of underlying issues. Once you figure out why your cat is extra gassy you can also provide some pretty successful treatments at home.

Do Cats Fart?

The short answer? Yes.

The longer answer? Not usually too often. All mammals fart but cats fart a little less. Cat farting is nothing to be ashamed of — unless it's going on a little too long. This can mean there's a digestive system issue. That's when it's time to address cat farts a bit more seriously.

Is it Typical for Cats to Fart? How Often?

If you smell something fishy coming from your kitty don't panic — farting is normal! Cats will have to fart for a multitude of reasons, although far less often than other species like dogs and humans. That's because cats don't scarf down food like we do, meaning there's less air in their digestive tract. But they do have a digestive tract and an anus so farting is bound to happen sometimes!

Normal vs Excessive Cat Gas

The amount a cat farts varies from feline to feline. But if you notice your kitty farting more than usual — or if it smells stronger — there may be something off. If it happens for a long period of time (think, more than a day), it may be time to take your furry friend to the vet. You should also consult an expert if you notice these symptoms accompanying their gas:

• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Urgent litter box usage
• Abnormal feces (black in color, odd texture, or blood)
• Lack of litter box use and constipation
• Noisy sounds, like grumbling, in their gut
• Decreased appetite and weight loss
• Lethargic behavior
• Drooling

RELATED: 4 Helpful Remedies: How to Naturally Stop Cat Diarrhea

What Causes Gas in Cats & Are Some Breeds More Susceptible?

The main reason for cat gas is a buildup in their digestive system. This is the same reason humans and other species also experience increased flatulence. Passing gas can happen for many common — and harmless — and reasons, like swelling too much air or eating too fast.

There are some breeds that may be more likely to pass gas. That's because some breeds are more prone to digestive problems and have a more sensitive stomach. This includes the Sphynx, Devon Rex, and the Ragdoll.

While some cats may experience gas more than others, there are a few reasons any cat can develop gas:

Diet

The biggest culprit for a gassy cat is their food. Cats can have very sensitive stomachs and many are allergic to the carbohydrates found in cheaper cat food brands. Food allergies are quite common with kitties. Too much fiber can also lead to gas. Human food is another major culprit for gassy cats so avoid feeding them from your plate.

RELATED: Cat Food Ingredients [Distinguishing Quality]

Dairy

Cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they can't properly digest dairy products. This includes milk, cheese, yogurt, and chocolate. Dairy can lead to an upset stomach, including farting, diarrhea, and even serious complications.

Parasites

Speaking of pests, intestinal parasites can cause gastrointestinal problems. These parasites include tapeworms, roundworms, and hookworms. These are common in kittens that have not been dewormed, leading to bloating and excessive gas.

Intestinal diseases

If your cat has certain diseases it can lead to serious flatulence. An imbalance of gut bacteria can lead to gas. Inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatic issues, and cancer can also lead to excessive farting. If you suspect your cat has an intestinal problem or disease, take them to a trusted veterinarian.

Allergies

Cats aren't only allergic to cat food "fillers." Cats can fart due to environmental allergies, like dust and pollen, as well as fleas, ticks, and mites. These can lead to digestive issues.

Related: Home Remedies for Fleas on Cats [Helpful Tips Inside!]

Prevention of Gas in Cats

To prevent gas in your cat, going forward you'll need to identify the cause of their gas. Once you figure out which of the previous problems your cat is experiencing, you can make some changes to prevent gas.

Slowing Food Consumption

If your cat was eating too fast or too much, it's important to change their feeding routine. You may want to break up their meals and serve them throughout the day. This will spread out their food intake. This can be done even easier with an automatic feeder.

If you have multiple cats, feed your gassy cat away from the other feline housemates. When cats eat near each other they can sometimes see it as a competition. They will scarf down food much quicker to avoid another cat potentially taking their food. They will eat slower when they are separated, helping their digestion, and reducing gas.

Diet Changes

After these changes, you should slowly begin to change their cat food if they are still farting. It may be a food allergy! Switch out their food gradually with a brand that's lower in carbs and higher in protein. Speak with a vet if you want food recommendations for kitties with sensitive stomachs. Ask them about hypoallergenic diets as well.

Activity Levels

Meanwhile, keep your cats active. Regular exercise will help reduce gas. You can encourage your cat to play by getting involved. Throw some toys, tease them with a laser, and shake a ribbon for them to bat and jump at. Some cats might even enjoy cat wheels if they're a bit more active! One other alternative for entertaining cats is to give them some catnip or CBD catnip spray. Catnip can stimulate a feline's body and mind.

Visit a Veterinarian

Schedule a visit with a veterinarian. Discuss medication that prevents parasites and deworming if they haven't been. Your vet may have a bit more advice on preventing and treating parasites. While you're there, it's possible for them to screen for other potential diseases and problems.

The Best Cat Gas Remedies

Cat Gas Remedy #1 - Yogurt

If your cat is already experiencing gas there are a few remedies you can try while waiting for a vet visit. One may be a bit surprising: yogurt. While cats shouldn't have dairy, sometimes plain yogurt can reduce intestinal gas. That's because of the food's friendly bacteria. Try out an unflavored and unsweetened yogurt, dropping one teaspoon in your cat's food.

Cat Gas Remedy #2 - Fennel

You can also add fennel to your cat's food, mixing the powdered spice with some water. This combination will stick to their kibble, making it easier to digest. Fennel will decrease your cat's farting.

Cat Gas Remedy #3 - Activated Charcoal

Another home remedy is activated charcoal, which can reduce cat fart odor. Try adding about 1/8 teaspoon to your cat's food every day — but only for a few days at a time. The charcoal will absorb the odor, but it's not a long-term solution.

Cat Gas Remedy #4 - Oat Grass

An uneasy stomach can also benefit from oat grass. Felines love chomping on grass, especially when they have an upset stomach. Having this around may help comfort your cat's tummy, reducing their gas.

Final Thoughts - Do Cats Fart? What is the Best Cat Gas Remedy?

Farts smell. And sometimes gas can be the sign of something even worse. If your cat seems smellier than usual, you may need to take them to the vet. Meanwhile, there are things you can do to ease your cat's stomach pains and digestive issues. Sometimes it can be as simple as changing their diet or making sure they are more active. Just keep an eye on their symptoms and other behaviors — they will smell better in no time!. Check out more.