Do Cats Fart?

It is not the most glamorous topic, but many cat owners have quietly wondered the same thing: do cats fart?

The short answer is yes. Cats can and do pass wind. However, compared to humans and dogs, it tends to happen less often and is usually far less noticeable.

If you have never heard your cat break wind, that is perfectly normal. But if you suddenly notice a strong smell or frequent gas, it may be worth paying attention.

Do Cats Actually Pass Wind?

Yes, cats produce intestinal gas just like other mammals.

Gas forms in the digestive system as a natural by-product of:

• Swallowed air during eating
• The breakdown of food in the stomach and intestines
• Bacterial fermentation in the gut

In most healthy cats, small amounts of gas pass silently and without smell. You are unlikely to notice it at all.

Cats do not usually produce the dramatic, noisy flatulence more commonly associated with dogs.

Why You Rarely Notice It

There are several reasons cat farts often go undetected.

Their Diet Is Highly Digestible

Cats are obligate carnivores. Their digestive systems are designed to process animal protein efficiently. A meat-based diet typically produces less fermentable waste in the intestines compared to high-fibre or plant-heavy diets.

Less fermentation generally means less gas.

Small Body Size

Cats have relatively small digestive tracts compared to larger animals. Even when gas is produced, the volume is usually small.

Silent Release

When cats do pass wind, it is typically silent. Most owners only become aware of it if there is an accompanying smell.

What Causes Smelly Cat Farts?

Occasional mild odour is not usually a cause for concern. However, strong or frequent flatulence may indicate an underlying issue.

Common causes include:

Dietary Changes

Sudden changes in food can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. When new ingredients are introduced too quickly, fermentation may increase, leading to gas.

If you are switching foods, do so gradually over 7–10 days.

Food Intolerance or Sensitivity

Some cats are sensitive to certain proteins, dairy products, grains or additives. Food intolerance can lead to:

• Excess gas
• Loose stools
• Vomiting
• Skin irritation

If symptoms persist, a vet may recommend a limited ingredient or hypoallergenic diet.

Eating Too Quickly

Cats that eat rapidly may swallow excess air, which can contribute to gas build-up. This is more common in multi-cat households where there is competition at feeding time.

Slow-feeding bowls or spreading meals into smaller portions may help.

Poor-Quality Diet

Lower-quality foods containing fillers or difficult-to-digest ingredients may increase fermentation in the gut.

Feeding a high-quality, protein-rich diet suited to your cat’s life stage can reduce digestive upset.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Persistent or severe flatulence may signal:

• Parasites
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Bacterial imbalance
• Pancreatic problems

If gas is accompanied by lethargy, weight loss, ongoing diarrhoea or vomiting, veterinary advice is important.

Are Kitten Farts Normal?

Yes, kittens can pass wind too.

In young kittens, gas may be linked to:

• Sudden diet changes
• Transitioning from milk to solid food
• Intestinal parasites

Because kittens have developing digestive systems, mild digestive upset can be more common during early life.

However, frequent diarrhoea, bloating or discomfort should always be checked by a vet.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Occasional flatulence on its own is rarely serious.

You should seek veterinary advice if your cat has:

• Frequent or persistent gas
• Noticeably foul-smelling flatulence
• Diarrhoea lasting more than a day or two
• Vomiting
• A swollen or painful abdomen
• Changes in appetite
• Unexplained weight loss

Sudden abdominal swelling combined with distress or retching can indicate a medical emergency, although this is rare in cats.

If in doubt, it is always safest to consult your vet.

Can You Prevent Excess Gas in Cats?

In many cases, yes.

Practical steps include:

• Feeding a high-quality, balanced diet
• Introducing new foods gradually
• Avoiding dairy unless specifically advised
• Ensuring regular worming treatment
• Reducing stress around feeding times
• Monitoring portion sizes

If your cat is prone to digestive issues, your vet may suggest a sensitive digestion formula or probiotic supplement.

Do Cats Make Noise When They Fart?

It is uncommon, but possible.

Most feline flatulence is silent because of the small volume of gas and the structure of their digestive system. If you do hear a noise, it may be subtle.

More often, owners simply notice an unexpected smell and look suspiciously at their cat.

Conclusion

In healthy cats, flatulence is typically infrequent, mild and barely noticeable. Strong smells, frequent gas or accompanying digestive symptoms, however, may point to dietary intolerance or an underlying issue.

As with most aspects of feline health, sudden changes are worth paying attention to. If your cat seems otherwise happy, active and eating well, the occasional unpleasant odour is unlikely to be a problem.

Sometimes, even the most dignified companion has very ordinary bodily functions.