Causes of Feline Constipation
A diet that is low in fiber and high in protein is a sure way for a cat to become constipated. A diet that is too high in fiber can also cause digestive blockages. Not drinking enough water also leads to this discomfort.
When a cat consumes items that are hard for his or her digestive system to breakdown, constipation could be in his or her future. Such items include grass, cloth, paper and other non-food products. Hairballs, as well, are a culprit behind hard stools.
An older cat may have weaker abdominal muscles and cause him or her to strain during a bowel movement. Small tumors may also reside in the colon of a cat, causing the rectum to be thinner in size.
Feline Constipation Symptoms
Constipation symptoms may be harder to detect in a cat if multiple people in a household clean the litter box or the cat relives him or herself outside.
If the cat does use an indoor litter box, one will notice that a cat has left only a small amount of feces in the box, which is often hard and dry. A pet owner may also notice a cat straining during a bowel movement, which is also an indication of feline constipation.
Feline Constipation Treatment
Treatment options for cat constipation are numerous. One is a change in diet that includes foods that contain more water and fiber, which can often be found in canned foods for cats. One can also make special food for a cat at home using rice bran and other ingredients a veterinary dietician can recommend.
A veterinarian may also prescribe a stool softener, herbal remedies, or a medication called Cisapride. No longer used for ailments in humans, Cisapride has been found to be beneficial for cats with gastrointestinal disorders.
Cisapride
Cisapride is often used in cats that have chronic constipation or a condition called megacolon, which causes chronic constipation. This medicine can help food pass through a cat's intestine quickly and is typically administered 15 minutes prior to eating. Cisapride is also known to help relieve nausea in cats.
When a cat is being treated with Cisapride for constipation, it is important that an owner not forget to administer a scheduled dose. Also, a cat should not be given any more or less of the medication than a veterinarian has indicated.
Cisapride Side Effects
Cats that use Cisapride for constipation usually tolerate the medication well. The main side effects of Cisapride are stomach aches (cramping) and diarrhea. A cat that takes too much of this medication is more likely to suffer from these side effects.
Cat constipation is a treatable condition that can usually be remedied within 48 hours. One should consult a veterinarian if his or her cat is suffering from prolonged constipation as this can be an underlying symptom of another condition.