What can you give a constipated cat/cat constipation? What do you do?

Although cat constipation is a fairly common problem, the causes and symptoms can be wildly different from one cat to the next. Discover what you need to know about this condition to help treat it quickly and prevent it from making sudden appearances in your cat`s life.

If you suspect your cat is constipated, you`re no doubt eager to figure out what has caused it and how you can provide some relief to your beloved cat. In this article, we look at the essential information you need, from early symptoms all the way to veterinary cat constipation treatment and ways you can prevent the discomfort to help your cat get back to its usual happy self.

What is cat constipation?

Constipation in cats occurs when stool is difficult due to an abnormal accumulation of stool in the colon. Usually, this is indicated by the reduced or complete absence of bowel movements. Faeces remain in the colon, and since one of the colon’s main functions is to absorb water, the faeces that remain here become very hard and dry, making them more uncomfortable for cats.

Cat constipation signs and symptoms

A cat who hasn`t produced stools for greater than 24 hours is in all likelihood to be stricken by cat constipation. However, every now and then proprietors may not be updated with their cat`s restroom ordinary as a few tomcats are recognized to love going to the bathroom exterior as well. Therefore you may not note the infrequency in their restroom addiction instantly away. These are a number of the opposite signs and symptoms of cat constipation you could need to maintain an eye fixed on:

  • Tense abdomen
  • Hard, dry, small stools
  • Straining which may be improper via way of means of proprietors as problem urinating every now and then
  • Lack of urge for food
  • Hunched posture
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Causes of Cat Constipation

There can be many reasons why your cat may be constipated. They range from lack of water to serious underlying medical conditions. The most common causes of cat constipation are:

  • hairballs
  • excessive management
  • low-fibre diet
  • dehydration
  • obesity
  • ileus
  • Abnormal shape of the colon or inflammation of the colon
  • nerve disorders
  • avoid trash cans

Cat Constipation Common Symptoms

Cat constipation is usually associated with one or a few of the following symptoms:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Dry, hard stools
  • Bloody stools
  • Crying or straining in the litter box
  • Lack of grooming
  • Weight loss
  • Frequent trips to the litter box without defecating
  • Lethargy, not responding to you as usual

What Can You Do InHome To Help With My Cat Constipation?

If you notice that your cat is still producing some faeces daily, there may be some preventive measures you can take to avoid serious constipation. Here are a few things to try:

  • Keep clean and fresh water out to ensure that your cat is drinking enough.
  • Brush regularly.
  • For longhaired breeds or cats prone to hairballs, brushing regularly can help keep excess hair from the digestive tract.
  • Change your cat`s diet.
  • Try feeding a canned diet and/or adding fibre to the diet.
  • Fibre can help waste move through the digestive system easily and quickly.
  • Try adding pumpkin or natural bran cereal to our cat`s food.
  • Fibre supplements increase fibre in the diet as well.
  • Some cats should try laxatives like Miralax or Lactulose to keep them “regular”.
  • You may need to talk to your veterinarian before starting a laxative.
  • For digestive health, use cat probiotics recommended by your veterinarian.
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Diagnosing constipation in cats

Generally, constipation in cats is simple to diagnose and is finished on the idea in their signs and scientific history. Your vet will ask you questions on how your cat has been feeling and could sense round your cat`s colon, wherein they have to be capable of discovering the amassed faecal matter. If necessary, your vet may additionally perform similar assessments to diagnose the underlying purpose which would possibly encompass stomach and pelvis x-rays to search for injures, abnormalities or tumours of the pelvic canal. Bloodwork and urine assessments can be finished too to rule out the opportunity of an underlying disease.

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