Constipation in Cats 

Your cat strolls to its litter box as usual but afterward, only a few hard pellets are left behind. This could mean your feline friend is suffering from constipation. Discover how to recognise constipation in cats and the best ways to lend a helping paw in the following article.

Can my cat die from constipation?

Constipation isn’t uncommon in cats. However, you should always take signs of constipation seriously, as it can quickly escalate from simple constipation (obstipation) to a life-threatening impaction (coprostasis).

Furthermore, distension can rapidly lead to a permanent dilation of the colon, known as a megacolon. This condition leads to lifelong complications for your cat.

Causes: How does cat constipation occur?

There are numerous potential causes of constipation in cats:

• A low-fibre diet and limited fluid intake cause faeces to harden.
• [Hairballs (Trichobezoars)] or other swallowed objects can partially or completely block the intestines. A complete blockage is an absolute emergency!
• Obesity and lack of exercise slow down intestinal transit.
• If your cat experiences pain during defecation, it will delay the process as long as possible. During this time, the body absorbs more liquid from the stool, leading to constipation.
• Constrictions of the intestine due to tumours or inflammations (e.g., caused by parasite infestation).
• Some medications that inhibit bowel movements (e.g., sedatives, opioids).
• Illnesses associated with disrupted fluid balance (e.g., diabetes or kidney diseases).

This extensive list explains why constipation is relatively common in cats.

Symptoms: What are the signs of constipation in cats?

So how do you know if your cat is constipated? Sometimes it’s not so simple to track down the issue.

Normal cat faeces are cigar-shaped. If the droppings are more solid and round, this is an early sign of constipation. Additional clues include vocalising during trips to the litter box and restlessness.

If your cat is sensitive when you try to stroke its belly area, this is an indication of abdominal pain. Moreover, many cats stop their food intake when they are constipated. If constipation persists, vomiting and dehydration are other symptoms to watch out for.

Diagnosis: What examinations will the vet perform?

The most crucial task for the vet is to determine the cause of your cat’s constipation, as this will dictate the treatment approach.

A general examination is usually sufficient

During the consultation, the vet will ask if your cat has recently been dewormed, has suffered from diarrhoea, or has been on certain medications.

The general examination of the cat provides further insights into the potential cause. If the cat appears relatively normal upon general examination, the cause of constipation is likely also easy to resolve.

Further examinations

If the cat’s overall condition is more severe, the vet will conduct additional tests such as X-rays or ultrasound.

A blood test can reveal more about the cat’s fluid and electrolyte balance and may provide clues to other underlying conditions.

© Stefano Garau / stock.adobe.com

Treatment: How is cat constipation treated?

The treatment for constipation depends on the underlying cause. For milder cases of constipation, simple measures are often sufficient. The first goal is always to empty the hardened faeces from the bowels, thus stimulating a bowel movement.

For example, if a lack of fibre in the diet or dehydration is to blame, remedies such as laxatives or a small enema may help the cat.

Important: Never attempt to administer an enema to your cat with over-the-counter human medications. Not every product suitable for humans is safe for cats.

What has a laxative effect for cats?

If your cat is still feeling quite well, you might try some home remedies to encourage bowel movements, such as milk, psyllium, or wheat bran.

Administered orally, paraffin oil acts as a lubricant, facilitating the evacuation of the bowels. However, paraffin oil should only be given on a vet’s advice and preferably by a professional, because if the cat aspirates the oil, it could trigger a severe lung infection.

What does the vet do for severe constipation?

If the faeces have become very hard or if there is a large amount of solid waste in the intestines, a colonic irrigation under anaesthesia may be necessary. A manual massage of the intestines can also help alleviate the constipation.

To assist, the vet might use IV drips, pain relief, and anti-emetics.

If it’s already a case of intestinal obstruction, surgery is the only remedy. This should be done as swiftly as possible to prevent the death of large segments of the bowel.

Prognosis: What are the chances of recovery?

Generally, constipation in cats is treatable. It is vital to identify and manage any other underlying illnesses.

If constipation progresses to intestinal obstruction, it can be fatal for the cat.

Prophylaxis: How can you prevent cat constipation?

There are several ways you can help prevent constipation in your cat:

• Feeding high-fibre cat food can support your cat’s natural digestion.
• Ensure adequate fluid intake. A drinking fountain or switching from dry food to wet food can be beneficial.
• Regularly carry out parasite prophylaxis and/or faecal examinations.
• Remove cat hair from your home and brush your cat regularly.
• Create opportunities for exercise, perhaps with cat trees or cat toys.
• If your cat avoids using the litter box due to joint pain, the regular administration of pain medication is advisable.

Nutrition Note: Choosing the right diet food can support your cat’s natural bodily functions. But please remember that diet food cannot heal or prevent illnesses. Always discuss your cat’s diet with your vet. Special diet cat foods are available at the zooplus online shop.

This article from zooplus Magazine is purely informative. If your pet is experiencing discomfort, contact your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

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