Feline Owner’s Guide To Constipation In Felines

June 5, 2009
By system

Constipation in cats is a relatively common occurrence. Like you, your constipated cat will have trouble having a bowel movement. Older cats are usually affected by this condition. However, you should know that this condition can affect felines of any age. As an owner, you may be wondering how your pet could suffer from feline constipation.

Causes

Constipation in cats can occur for numerous reasons. Sometimes, your cat develops this condition for no apparent reason. Dehydration is one of the leading reasons your cat can have trouble having a bowel movement. Your cat’s stool will become hardened from the lack of water. This will make it more difficult for your cat to pass it.

Poor diet is another reason cats get constipated. There are many things that can cause problems. Some of the most common include bones, hair, salty foods, and fatty foods. Other common causes include diseases, anal infections, and lack of exercise.

Symptoms

If you’re paying attention to your constipated cat, you will see that he spends an unusual amount of time in his litter box. He’s spending so much time in his box because he can’t get his stool to pass. In some cases, blood will appear in the stool. Constipated cats will stop eating as much as usual. This is because they usually have an upset stomach. It’s also common for cats to become more lethargic.

Diagnosis

Urine and blood tests are usually performed before the vet makes a definitive diagnosis of constipation. By analyzing these samples, the vet can tell if other infectinos or diseases are to blame for the constipation. Sometimes, cats will have a foreign object blocking their colon that prevents them from having a bowel movement. An x-ray will help the vet see if this is the issue with your cat. The vet will probably check the colon anyway since this condition can cause damage to it.

Treatment

Felines with constipation usually receive intravenous fluids initially. As the fluids and electrolytes in your cat’s body are returned to balance, the condition should subside. Laxatives or enemas are also suitable treatment options. If hardened stool can’t be passed naturally, it will have to be physically removed from the colon.

Prevention

As an owner, you should be aware of things you can do to prevent your cat from becoming constipated. Ingesting dead hair can lead to a blocked colon. It’s best that you limit the amount of hair that he swallows by grooming him yourself regularly. Keeping your kitty’s litter box clean at all times is also a good idea. Your cat may not use the box if it’s too dirty.

There are many more conditions that can affect your cat besides constipation. All owners should learn as much as possible about common feline illnesses in case their pet gets sick one day. Cat-illnesses.com provides information on a wide range of these illnesses. Click over right now!.

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3 Responses to “ Feline Owner’s Guide To Constipation In Felines ”

  1. [...] Original post: Feline Owner’s Guide To Constipation In Felines [...]

  2. [...] Read and write articles » Feline Owner's Guide To Constipation In … [...]

  3. melatonintablets on July 27, 2009 at 5:16 am

    just make sure you have lots of dietary fiber in your food and you will be able to reduce the chances of having Constipation.

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