Is Your Cat Constipated?
Cat constipation can range from annoying to a major medical emergency. How can you tell if you cat is constipated and how can you remedy the situation if found?

Although cleaning the litter box probably isn’t your favorite chore, it can hold important clues to your feline’s health. If the amount of waste produces is much less than usual or it is hard and dry, kitty is probably constipated. If you notice that your pet is not eliminating at all, this may indicate a blockage which requires an immediate vet visit as this is a ilfe-threatening emergency. Also, you may notice kitty straining when eliminating, suspect constipation. You may also see liquid or mucus passed instead of stool.

What causes constipation? A common culprit is dehydration. Another is that something could be causing a blockage such as a hairball or a bone. If kitty is taking medication, this could create difficulty eliminating. Tumors or other diseases can cause it. Even something as simple as stress or a change in routine can cause kitty litter box difficulties.

Even for mild cases, a vet visit is necessary to pinpoint the cause. An x-ray that may even include a barium enema can show blockages. A colonoscopy could be performed where the vet looks at your kitty’s colon with a scope.

For treatment, your vet will urge you to push fluids and may even do an IV. For blockages, surgery may be necessary. An enema may be used to get feces out of the bowel. Many of the treatment options involve an overnight stay at the vet.

Once you get kitty through this bout of constipation, know that the condition tends to occur. For prevention, you may be instructed to increase the fiber in your feline’s diet. Adequate water intake is also extremely important. A cat fountain may encourage your pet to drink more.

With cat constipation, it is important to treat promptly and take measures to prevent it from recurring.