Do cats fart? Although not necessarily the best topic for the dinner table, cat farts are an important topic for pet parents to learn about.
Like other gastrointestinal functions, flatulence is a natural occurrence in animals. Though not as often (or as loudly) as dogs and humans, the dignified cat does, indeed, pass gas.
Why Do Cats Fart?
Flatulence typically results from a buildup of gas in the digestive system, which is then released from the body. In most instances, cat flatulence occurs when your kitty swallows too much air, or it could be related to allergies or food.
Allergies to dust, pollen and pests such as ticks and fleas can also cause digestive distress, including vomiting, flatulence, or diarrhea. Flea allergies are quite common, says the Cat Hospital, but if these symptoms are profuse, you should check with your veterinarian before administering any treatment.
Food allergies or sensitivities can contribute to excessive gas, too. In fact, food is considered one of the main causes of cat farts. In its nutritional guidelines, the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) includes flatulence as an "altered gastrointestinal function" in its global "Nutritional Screening Risk Factor" checklist for veterinarian nutritional assessment. WSAVA's nutritional assessment accounts "for snacks, treats, table food, foods used for medication administration, and dietary supplements" — basically, anything your kitty puts in their tummy.
Tasty Tips
Food and Cat Farts
Choosing the right cat food for your feline friend is a great first step for managing their flatulence. Select a meal plan that includes the necessary vitamins and minerals and fits their size, age and activity level. Fiber, for example, is great for a cat's digestive system, but too much fiber can cause excessive gas. In certain cases, your veterinarian may recommend a therapeutic cat food like Hill's® Prescription Diet® that is specially formulated for proper feline digestion.
Also, cat farts are just one reason that you generally shouldn't give your cat people food. There are some foods, including some fruits, that are safe for cats in moderation, according to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). But consider how an excess of fiber can affect you. Now, think about that happening to your cat. Not good, right?
Though your cat can tolerate some people food, it's best to stick to food that's formulated for your furry friend, as emphasized by AAFCO: "Sharing food from the family table with pets can introduce a nutrition imbalance because pet foods typically offer an entire complete and balanced diet in a single product. In fact, many food items that humans eat are toxic to cats and dogs."
Always contact your vet before feeding people food to your kitty to ensure that it's safe for you to do so.
Flatulence and Health Issues
In rare cases, cat flatulence may be caused by a serious illness such as Tritrichomonasfoetus, an intestinal parasite that can produce gassy, "malodorous" feces, says the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine. If your cat shows other signs of gastrointestinal distress, including excessive diarrhea and vomiting, and their gas has a strong smell, take them to the vet right away so a doctor can check for an underlying health issue.
Rest assured, most cat farts are not a cause for concern. They won't pass gas frequently, and when they do, they'll probably be just as surprised as you are. Cats are elegant creatures; you won't always hear it or smell it, as most gas is odorless — dainty and delicate, just like your cat.
Most of the time, a toot is just a toot. However, if you have any concerns, be sure to talk to your vet. He or she can also make recommendations on a quality food for your cat to ensure that you are properly feeding their digestive health.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Turkey Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet minced turkey in precisely balanced nutrition. Provide a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Hairball Control cat food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Urinary Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entrée cat food
Supports the health of the whole urinary system with optimal levels of magnesium
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Roasted Vegetable & Chicken Medley cat food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Beef Dinner
Gourmet daily nutrition, carefully made. Tasty chunks with chicken & beef in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Vegetables Stew Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Salmon & Yellow Peas Recipe cat food
Grain free, easy-to-digest food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Poached Salmon & Spinach Medley Cat Food
Delicious poached salmon paired with tender spinach in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Liver Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced turkey & liver to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Tuna Dinner
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature indoor cats
Related articles
Toxoplasmosis in Cats: Facts, Symptoms, Transmission & More
Toxoplasmosis in Cats: Facts, Symptoms & Transmission
Can Cats Get Asthma?
Could your cat's wheezing & breathing issues be an asthma attack, or is it just a hairball? Learn to recognize signs of asthma and what you should do.
How to Care for Cat Paw Pads
Learn why it's important to keep your cat's paw pads clean and healthy, including household items you can use to keep her paws moisturized.
How to Make Your Own DIY Cat Scratching Post
Learn how to build an easy, homemade DIY cat scratching post using items around your house! She'll get exercise and you won't get a ruined staircase.
The Effects of Catnip on Your Cat
Learn what catnip is, and whether or not it is safe to give to your cat and any side effects associated with catnip.
Kitten Psychology: Understanding What Your Cat is Thinking
To provide your kitten with the best possible care, it is important to understand her. Learn more about what your kitten thinks and does.
Simple Ways to Keep Your Senior Cat Moving
Even though your senior cat may be slowing down a bit, you can still help her stay active. Learn ways to keep her both physically & mentally involved.
Choosing A Healthy Cat Food: Things You Need to Know
Find out the essential ingredients in a healthy cat food, how to interpret a food label, and the importance of your cat's age when choosing a food.
Stress and Feline Urinary Problems: How to Deal With It
Learn how to identify and reduce the chances of feline urinary issues by helping alleviate stress in her life.
Why You Should Brush Your Cat's Teeth Regularly
Learn why brushing your cat's teeth regularly is important. Good oral hygiene and care involves right supplies, method and cat food formulated for oral health.
Weight Control Food for Cats: Key Features and Feeding Tips
What is the best food for an overweight cat? Learn all about weight control food for cats, including what's in it and how it works.
Cats and Christmas Trees: How to Keep Both Safe
While it might be nearly impossible to separate your cat from your Christmas tree, learn ways you can combat her curiosity and keep her out of harm's way.
Spotting and Treating Acne in Cats
Acne in Cats: Common Signs, Treatment & Prevention
Is Daycare Right for Your Cat?
Learn all you need to know about daycare for cats, from how to choose a facility to tips for helping your cat feel comfortable at their daytime home.
The Meaning Behind Your Cat's Meow: 5 Distinct Cat Sounds & Noises
From a meow to a purr, learn what your your feline friend is telling you when she makes these five distinct cat sounds.
Preparing Your Cat for a New Baby
Learn how your cat's behavior might change if you bring a newborn baby into the home and how you can keep both baby and cat safe.
Understanding & Managing Congestive Heart Failure in Cats
Learn about congestive heart failure in cats, including most common symptoms and complications, treatment options and whether it can be prevented.
Is Chocolate Bad for Cats?
Chocolate is known to be poisonous for dogs, but it can also be toxic for cats. Learn why chocolate is bad for cats & what to do if she's eaten it.
Why Does My Cat Walk on Me?
Cats often like to treat us like their personal cat bed, but why do they love to stand & walk on us? Learn why & how you can nicely curb this behavior.
Why Are Adopted Cats Returned to Shelters?
Learning common reasons why adopted cats are returned to shelters can help you better prepare for your adoption journey and enjoy your new pet.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.