Cat Constipation – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Constipation is relatively common in cats (normal feline colon). While middle-aged and older cats (cats over 8 years) are more susceptible, cats of any age can become constipated. Although there is no absolute rule on the number of bowel movements a cat should have each day, most healthy adult cats have one or two. Veterinarians suspect constipation when a cat has no (or very infrequent) bowel movements, when it strains while attempting to defecate, and when it has a significantly decreased amount of stool.
Causes of Constipation
Dietary and environmental (hair, bones)
Painful defecation (anal/rectal disease)
Obstructive (old pelvic fracture, tumors)
Clinical symptoms of cat constipation
Cats with fur balls and constipation are often dull and lethargic with reduced appetite. Cat owners are often unaware what their cat’s faeces are like, but if seen they may appear normal to dry and reduced in quantity. In mild and early stages the cat may cough and/or retch. In the next phase the cat may well vomit, sometimes just bilious fluid. If they have recently eaten, food will often be regurgitated undigested.
The symptoms are not pleasant. Dry cough, constipation, vomiting after meals, even the dreaded strain during bowel movements. We’re not talking about the aftermath of a bacchanalian weekend, we’re talking hairballs here, which can really be a nightmare for your cat, and for you, the cat owner charged with cleanup.
How do I know if I have a constipated cat?
If your cat goes to the toilet outdoors then it may be difficult for you to spot the tell-tale signs of cat constipation. If you do suspect your cat is having problems, then keep them indoors with a litter tray for a couple of days so you can better monitor how they are getting on.
If the megacolon is advanced, no amount of management can make it propel the stool to the exit. The only alternative is surgery. The colon is removed, and most surgeries are successful.
What is the conventional treatment?
The most common treatment for constipation is a change in diet. If this does not work, a mild laxative may be prescribed. An enema may also be necessary to remove hardened stool which is impacted in the colon.
