Constipation in cats

Overview

A cat having problems defecating is referred to as being constipated.  This means that they have small stools that are hard and dry and more difficult to eliminate.  This condition is often extremely painful and causes a great amount of distress.  While this is not usually life threatening, constipation should not be ignored as it can be an indication of a more severe disorder, such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, an obstruction of the rectum, or a hernia. Cats may become constipated if they have blocked or abscessed anal sacs, an enlarged prostate gland, or even tangled hair on the rear end preventing a bowel movement (especially in long haired cats).

Hairballs are one of the most common reasons for constipation in cats.  If your cat eats other non-digestible objects such as string or cloth, it can mix with feces to form very hard stools that are painful to pass.

Not drinking enough water is a common cause of constipation, especially in older cats. With mild dehydration, a cat's body will pull increased amounts of water away from the colon, creating dry, hard stools.

Symptoms

If your cat is straining or crying out in pain when attempting to have a bowel movement, for more than two days, consult your veterinarian to determine the cause. Cats with constipation may also exhibit:

• Poor appetites
• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Increased hiding
• Small, hard feces that is often covered in mucous and sometimes small amounts of blood
• Vocalizing while in the litter box
• Decreased grooming habits
• Increased time spent posturing to defecate in the litter box

Your observations and careful monitoring of your cat can help your veterinarian diagnose the problem.

Treatment

Treatment may include treating the underlying cause of the constipation, increasing the fiber in the diet, laxatives, or surgery to remove a bowel obstruction.  Enemas may also be attempted if determined to be necessary by your veterinarian.  Cast should never receive phosphate containing enemas because of their life threatening consequences.  Fecal impactions may also require enemas and manual evacuation of the impaction. Consult your veterinarian before attempting any home remedies you may be tempted to try because such remedies may actually cause more harm than good.

Prevention

Be sure your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times and frequent opportunities to eliminate. Good hydration, a good diet (with sufficient fiber) and regular exercise are the best ways to prevent constipation.