Why does my cat’s stomach growl so loudly?

A growling, gurgling stomach (borborygmi is the technical term) is usually just the sound of gas and fluid moving through the intestines, and it happens in every healthy cat, including yours, whether or not you usually hear it. It gets louder and more noticeable around meal times, after a big drink or when a cat has been fasting for a stretch, which is why it often seems to appear out of nowhere. It only becomes a concern when it comes with vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite or visible discomfort, since those are the signs of something beyond normal digestion.

When to call a vet: Loud stomach sounds paired with vomiting, diarrhea or a hunched, uncomfortable posture warrant a vet check.