Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Intestinal torsion, or mesenteric volvulus, happens when the intestines twist around their blood supply, quickly cutting off blood flow. It’s rare in cats but is a life-threatening emergency. Signs include sudden severe belly pain, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, weakness, and collapse. More common causes of similar signs in cats include swallowed string or objects and intussusception. Any cat with these signs needs emergency care immediately.
Emergency signs
- Sudden severe belly pain, hunching, or crying
- Repeated vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Weakness, pale gums, or collapse
- A swollen belly
More common causes of similar signs
- Linear foreign bodies such as string or thread
- Intussusception (telescoping intestine), especially in young cats
- Pancreatitis
- Intestinal tumors in older cats
What to do
Go to an emergency vet immediately. Don’t give food or water. Don’t pull string from the mouth or rear end.
Treatment
Emergency stabilization and surgery. Because blood supply is cut off quickly, the outlook for true torsion is guarded, and fast treatment gives the best chance.
More: intestinal obstruction in cats.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Intestinal obstruction in small animals
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Gastrointestinal emergencies in small animals
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.