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Why is my healthy cat's poop white, despite vet saying he's fine?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 14 lbs

Hi, so we've had Thumbs, an FIV+ 3 year old Orange Domestic Shorthair for about a month now and while his play habits and appetite surely haven't changed; his feces have transformed. While they have retained that normal "catterpillar" shape, they have become starch white. We have also been to Vet three times since adoption for a routine check-up, nail trimming, and one other check-up for conjunctivitis in the eye. All three times the Vet took a look n' listen, and said he is a healthy, athlete.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 30th, 2017

White stool can be seen with a significant decrease in bile flow due to severe liver or gallbladder disease, but it doesn't sound like this is the case for Thumbs since he is otherwise healthy. Liver or gallbladder disease would also likely cause vomiting, decreased appetite and changes on lab work. It is more likely that the change in the color of his stool is related to diet and as long as he has been deemed healthy by your veterinarian it is not likely anything to worry about.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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