Constipation in cats is frequent and the condition may be easily treated. The condition can be caused by an unbalanced diet or may be a symptom of a more severe medical condition. Senior cats are more exposed to chronic constipation and other complications related to this condition.
Constipation is an unpleasant condition for your cat and occurs when the cat doesn't pass feces for over 24 hours. When the feces stay in the bowels for too long, they lose their natural moisture and are difficult to eliminate. It is important to determine the cause of your cat's constipation, to be able to prevent it.
Lack of Fiber
One of the most common causes of constipation in cats is a lack of fiber in the diet. A lot of cats eat dry food only, and this may lack the necessary amount of fibers.
Talk to your vet about some fiber supplements or introduce some raw vegetables in the cat's diet. Wet food is also recommended to prevent constipation. Dehydration
A cat that's dehydrated can easily get constipated. Make sure you provide a bowl of fresh water for your cat. If the dehydration is severe, the cat might need intravenous fluids to help him recuperate. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism can cause constipation and lack of appetite. Visit the vet to establish if your cat has any thyroid issues. Obstructed Colon
If your cat has swallowed a foreign object, he may get constipated because of an obstructed colon. Go to your vet to have a radiography done and see what your cat ate. Most of the time, surgery is needed to remove the foreign object.
The colon may be also be obstructed by a tumor. Anxiety and Stress
Cats may get constipated due to anxiety and stress. To solve the problem, you need to find the source of stress and remove it, or offer anxiety medication and therapy. Sedentary Lifestyle
A cat with a sedentary lifestyle is more prone to constipation. Make sure your cat gets plenty of exercise to promote the digestion and prevent constipation. Dirty Litter Box
If the litter box is not clean or if it was moved, your cat may refuse to defecate. The cat needs a clean litter box and privacy. Hairballs
Hairballs may cause constipation, as the fur can't be easily digested. Your cat ingests a lot of hair while grooming.
Get rid of hair balls by feeding grass to your cat or special hairball gel to induce a hairball cough-up.
If the constipation is acute, you can give your cat laxatives to solve the problem; canned pumpkin is a natural laxative. Prevent constipation with a balanced diet that is rich in fibers, and make sure your cat gets plenty of water and exercise.
If the constipation is chronic, visit the vet to determine the cause. A biopsy or a colonoscopy might be needed.