Do you think your cat might be constipated? Constipation is a very serious problem for cats, and it’s important to take care of the issue as soon as possible if you think it’s happening to your cat.
If you have noticed your cat going to the litter box with no results, or if she yells or cries in pain when trying to defecate, she may be constipated. Prolonged constipation can make a cat very sick. There are many things that can contribute to constipation in cats as well as medical conditions that directly cause it. Read through the information below to find some solutions you might want to try.
It is extremely important to discern whether your cat is straining to defecate versus urinate. Difficulty urinating or bring unable to urinate can be a life-threatening situation in male cats. Contact your veterinarian or local vet emergency clinic immediately if your male cat cannot urinate!
Feed Better Food
First, think about the type of food you’re feeding your cat. Is it very good quality? If you’re providing poor quality food for your cat, you may need to improve this selection to help your cat have better bowel movements.
You can ask your veterinarian for more information regarding your cat’s food. The vet should be able to give you a suggestion based on your cat’s specific dietary needs that can help her go to the bathroom more normally. As with people, higher fiber content diets can be helpful.
Provide More Water
Cats usually do not drink enough water, and this can contribute to constipation. If your cat is stubborn about drinking enough water, you may need to offer more options throughout your home.
Try giving fresh, clean water in multiple spots in the house rather than just one water bowl, especially if you have several pets sharing the same bowl. Some cats prefer to drink moving or running water. To provide this option to your cat, consider a pet water fountain or allowing your cat periodic access to a slowly running sink faucet.
Additionally, you might want to add some wet food to your cat’s diet. This can give your cat liquids she needs to help her go to the bathroom more smoothly.
Try Exercising
Cats, just like humans, who are constipated can benefit from some exercise. Exercising your cat makes it easier for her to go to the bathroom because exercise stimulates all the processes of your cat’s body—including the digestive system.
Most cats should have at least 15 minutes of active exercise per day. Younger cats may need more than this, depending on their preference for activity levels.
You should engage your cat with active play rather than just tossing a toy once and hoping your cat will continue to play with it. The more you engage, the better your cat will be able to exercise.
Try Canned Pumpkin
Finally, try giving your cat some canned pumpkin (a good source of fiber) for her constipation. Do not give her pumpkin pie filling, which contains other ingredients; choose 100% pure pureed canned pumpkin only. You can mix this into her dry food or try stirring it into some wet food to make it more enticing.
Some cats are willing to lick up canned pumpkin easily, while others may need some convincing to eat it. If your cat can eat a little bit of canned pumpkin a day for a few days, she will likely go to the bathroom soon.
Contact Us about Your Cat’s Constipation
Of course, the most important thing you can do for a constipated cat is take her to the veterinarian as soon as you notice there is a problem. She will need to see a vet for more assistance. Cats should not go more than a few days without defecating.
Your vet may need to run tests to find the underlying cause of the constipation. From there, the vet will work with you to figure out a solution based on your cat’s individual needs. To book an appointment with your West Ashley Veterinary Clinic vet call 843-571-7095 or use the online form!
About Us
West Ashley Veterinary Clinic in Charleston, SC offers a full range of veterinary services to keep your pets happy and healthy through all stages of life!