What should healthy cat poop look like?

A healthy stool is brown, formed and firm but not hard, roughly the shape and segmentation of a small log, and a cat typically goes about once a day. Very dark or black stool can mean digested blood, pale or grey can point to other problems and anything runny, bloody or studded with mucus is worth noting. A sudden change in color, frequency or consistency that lasts more than a couple of days is the signal to pay attention, especially alongside any change in appetite or energy.

When to call a vet: Black, bloody, pale or persistently loose stool, or a marked change lasting more than a day or two, should be checked by a vet.