Do you know how to recognize constipation in a cat? Constipation is a fairly common problem that can turn from a triviality into a health hazard. How Can I Cope When My Cat Does Not Poop? Is it enough to wait it out and hope for improvement, or is it better to go to the doctor right away? As a cat owner, you should be able to behave in any situation. Learn to recognize your cat’s constipation and respond appropriately.
Constipation in a cat and proper defecation
When should the fact that your cat is not pooping become alarming? The regularity of bowel movements largely depends on what diet your pet is on. A menu of mostly good quality dry food should result in you stool about once a day. Remember that it is very important to adapt the food to the age, breed and needs of your pet. It’s okay if you pass your faeces regularly and have a hard, consistent consistency.
The situation is different in the case of wet food. Then the cat’s stool is still hard, but moist and passes more often. When it comes to a home-made, natural diet, it is a bit more complicated. It’s a good idea to discuss this with an animal nutritionist and observe your cat to see what is beneficial for him. If you keep feeding fresh, proven food, your cat’s constipation shouldn’t be a problem.
Constipation in a cat – symptoms
Do you have concerns about whether your furry’s bowel rhythm is appropriate? How to recognize constipation in a cat? Is any deviation from the norm dangerous? Take it easy, not every irregularity is a cause for concern. The primary symptoms of constipation in a cat are:
- no new faeces in the litter box for about 2 days;
- noticeable fruitless attempts to defecate;
- loud meowing by the litter box, seemingly for no reason;
- unnatural, nervous behavior around the litter box;
- clearly less desire for food and drink, even delicacies;
- vomiting;
- loss of desire for normal activities and games.
In some cases, you may even feel lumps and crutches under your fingers in a hard cat’s belly. A cat’s constipation means that the animal moves much less, it walks hunched and contracted, with its back bent upwards. If you have more than one cat, you should carefully watch for any of the above disturbing symptoms.
Constipation in a cat – causes
The most common cause of constipation in cats is the ingestion of items that the pet cannot digest. They can block the bowel movement and pose a serious risk. Sometimes these are things the cat has found by accident in the house or outside – pieces of cloth, cords, ribbons, plastic parts or certain species of plants. If you see that your pet is holding any of these things in its mouth, take it out immediately. However, do not remove anything that protrudes from the anus, so as not to damage the intestines. In such a situation, see a doctor immediately.
Diet and constipation in a cat
Or your cat’s constipation can also be caused by improper diet, things you have given them yourself. These can be foods that are difficult to digest or that your cat is allergic to. In most cases, however, he should deal with them himself.
A common cause of constipation in a cat is also a ball of fur in the digestive system. Most of the time, the cat’s body removes them on its own, provided it is adequately supported, such as through a diet.
Constipation in a cat – stress
There are cases where the cat does not poop due to stress. Such a reaction may be caused by remodeling, renovation, moving house, change of owner or a new household member – human or animal. Contrary to appearances, cats value routine very much and any change may upset them. This affects not only mental health, but also physical health.
Constipation in a cat and veterinary procedures
Less obvious causes of constipation in a cat are procedures at the vet – mainly castration and other invasive surgeries. Then the digestive tract is empty and the stool does not appear for a long time. Seams often cause quite a lot of discomfort that hinders the normal functioning and tensing of the muscles. Added to this are stress and general malaise. However, within a day or so, your cat’s bowel movements should normalize.
The cat does not poop? How to help him at home?
The most important thing here is prevention. The cat needs food that is rich in meat and all the nutrients it needs. If you are unable to provide it yourself, invest in good quality karma. Dry nutrition should be varied at least from time to time in the portion of wet food. The fur coat should also always have access to fresh, clean water. Cats consume little fluid by nature – and are therefore prone to constipation in advance.
It is also worth taking care of the cat’s mental health. Pay attention to him and let him relax. Brush your pet regularly, especially if it has a longer coat. This way you will reduce the amount of hair that will build up in the intestines. It is imperative to keep the litter box clean. Most cats are picky cleaners. Perhaps your pet does not like the location of the toilet or the type of filling it. Change them and watch your pet’s reaction.
Constipation in a cat – treatment at home
If you’ve noticed a constipation in your cat, you can give him goose or duck lard as first aid. Anything greasy will taste good to him and will also make bowel movements easier. Butter is a slightly worse option, but you can give it to your cat if she is lactose intolerant. Absolutely do not give your pet any laxatives for humans. Human and feline bodies are completely different – the same products can have different effects.
Paraffin oil for a cat – a hit or a myth?
Oral paraffin oil is a well-known treatment for constipation. The theoretical principle of paraffin in a cat’s body is the same as in the case of lard or butter. The fat should help push the stool through and make it easier to pass.
The truth, however, is different. Paraffin oil for a cat can be a huge threat to its health and even life. This substance has a specific consistency that prevents expectoration. Your pet may choke on it, increasing the risk of lung disease or even death. Go to the vet instead of giving your pet paraffin on your own.
Constipation in a cat – diagnosis
If your cat’s constipation persists for more than 2 days, see a specialist. A qualified doctor is able to accurately determine the cause of constipation, also by carrying out various tests. Constipation can be caused by:
- hair crutches;
- eating mistakes;
- too little physical activity;
- swallowing an inedible item;
- stress;
- hypokalaemia;
- overactive thyroid gland;
- tumors at the anus;
- giant colon syndrome;
- neurological diseases;
- mechanical injuries of the lumbar region;
- orthopedic deformities;
- an adverse reaction to drug treatment.
Constipation in a cat – treatment
Only after identifying the cause can proper treatment be started. Most often, the vet starts by improving the work of the colon. Only when this organ is functioning properly will the cat be able to successfully get rid of the feces.
Treatment for constipation in a cat may include:
- making an enema;
- administration of laxatives for animals;
- application of diastolic preparations;
- connecting the cat to the drip;
- in extreme cases (especially those related to the ingestion of a foreign body), it may be necessary to undergo surgery under anesthesia.
The doctor may also recommend preparations to support the proper functioning of the intestines, intended for self-administration to the cat. However, do not buy them on your own without consulting your vet.
Interestingly, sedatives such as cat pheromones or tryptophan preparations can also help with constipation in a cat. If constipation is a recurring problem for your cat, be sure to notify your cat’s doctor. These ailments may indicate a much more serious disease.
Constipation in a cat is quite common. The gut and the rest of the digestive system are sensitive to changes in behavior and nutrition. You shouldn’t ignore this ailment. Recurrent constipation in your cat may be a sign of a serious, as yet undetected health problem. If you want to avoid complications and costly treatment, take care of a proper diet and prophylaxis. Traffic and constant access to fresh water are also very important here. When your cat is unhappy or feeling unhappy – he will let you know about it himself. You only need to watch him closely.