TL;DR: Grey, greasy stools (steatorrhea) indicate that your cat is failing to digest or absorb fats properly, often due to Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). While typically not an immediate emergency, you should schedule a veterinary exam within 24 to 48 hours.
What does it mean if my cat has grey, greasy stools?
- In the veterinary world, grey, greasy, and voluminous stools are referred to as steatorrhea.
- This condition occurs when your cat is unable to properly digest or absorb dietary fats.
- Instead of being processed by the body, the fat passes through the digestive tract, resulting in a pale, oily appearance and a notably foul odor.
- This is often a hallmark sign of malabsorption or maldigestion issues.
Is my cat having a medical emergency if their stool is grey and oily?
- The urgency level for grey, greasy stool is Medium.
- While this is typically not a sudden, life-threatening crisis, it indicates a significant underlying health problem.
- You should schedule a veterinary appointment within the next 24 to 48 hours.
- Contact an emergency clinic immediately if your cat is also showing signs of extreme lethargy, persistent vomiting, or a complete refusal to eat.
What are the common causes of grey, greasy stool in cats?
- Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI), a condition where the pancreas fails to produce enough digestive enzymes.
- Bile duct obstructions.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Severe small intestinal disease.
Why should I take a photo of my cat's stool for the veterinarian?
- Descriptions of color and texture can be subjective; a clear photo provides an objective visual record.
- A photo allows the vet to see the exact degree of oiliness and the specific shade of grey.
- This helps the vet differentiate between simple dietary indiscretion and more complex metabolic or organ-related issues.
- Visual evidence can significantly streamline the diagnostic process.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In cats with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), the high fat content of feces can lead to a greasy appearance of the hair coat, especially in the perianal and tail region. Clinical signs commonly reported with EPI include polyphagia, weight loss, and diarrhea, with feces often being pale, loose, and voluminous. Serum trypsin-like immunoreactivity (TLI) concentration of <8.0 mcg/L is diagnostic for EPI in cats. Feces should be examined for parasites. Supplementation with pancreatic enzymes is recommended, using powder rather than tablets or capsules. A starting dose of 1 teaspoon per cat with each meal can be administered, and once clinical signs resolve, the dose can be slowly decreased. Alternatively, raw chopped pancreas (1-3 oz or 30-90 g) can replace 1 teaspoon of pancreatic extract.
Chapter: Gastroenterology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 410)