Dealing with a constipated cat can be stressful, but the good news is that many cases can be managed with simple home remedies and lifestyle tweaks.
This guide will walk you through the common causes and symptoms of cat constipation, offering practical advice on home treatments you can try. Plus, we’ll cover when it’s time to call the vet.
Spotting constipation early and taking action is crucial for preventing more serious problems and keeping your feline friend healthy and comfortable. While many cases of cat constipation respond well to a home remedy, it’s important to remember that persistent or severe constipation needs veterinary care.
Decoding the causes of constipation in cats
Constipation in cats can stem from a variety of underlying issues. Here are some of the most common culprits:
Common medical conditions
- Kidney disease. Kidney issues can lead to dehydration, which in turn, can cause constipation. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is often linked to constipation, especially in older cats.
- Obesity. Overweight kitties are more prone to constipation because they often have digestive issues, reduced activity levels, and altered metabolic function.
- Hormonal imbalances. Hypothyroidism and hypercalcemia can also be underlying causes, affecting bowel function and motility.
Lifestyle and environmental factors
- Poor nutrition. A diet lacking in fiber and moisture is a prime suspect. Dry food diets, in particular, may not provide enough hydration for optimal bowel function.
- Matted hair. Long-haired breeds can sometimes develop matted hair around the anus, which can obstruct defecation and lead to constipation.
- Stress. Changes in environment, household members, or even daily routines can disrupt normal bowel function and trigger constipation in sensitive cats.
Physical obstructions and abnormalities
- Obstructions. Sometimes, constipation is caused by something blocking the digestive tract, such as foreign bodies, tumors, or strictures.
- Abnormalities. Conformational abnormalities, nerve dysfunction, pelvic fractures, and even idiopathic megacolon can contribute to constipation. Megacolon is a condition where the colon becomes enlarged and loses its ability to effectively move stool.
How to tell if your cat is constipated
The most obvious sign of constipation in cats is straining in the litter box without producing any poop. You might notice your cat spending a long time in the litter box and showing signs of discomfort.
Infrequent bowel movements are another red flag. Healthy cats typically poop at least once a day. If your cat hasn’t pooped in two days or more, they’re probably constipated.
You might also notice that their poop is hard and dry. It might look like small pellets that are hard to pass.
Other symptoms can include:
- Crying or making noises while trying to poop
- Acting tired
- Losing their appetite
- Vomiting
- Having a bloated or painful belly
These symptoms are signs of a more serious problem, so you’ll want to get your cat checked out by a vet right away.
Home Remedies for Cat Constipation: Safe and Effective Solutions
If your cat is straining in the litter box, not producing much poop, or crying out in pain, you may be looking for some ways to safely help your feline friend.
Hydration is Key
Cats are notoriously bad about drinking enough water, so constipation can sometimes be as simple as dehydration. You can encourage water intake by leaving out multiple water bowls, adding a water fountain, or mixing a little low-sodium broth into your cat’s food.
Wet food has more moisture than dry food, so that’s another easy way to boost your cat’s hydration levels. You can also pour a little water over dry kibble to soften it and add more moisture.
Dietary Adjustments
Switching to wet food is a good start, but you may also want to ask your vet about a high-fiber prescription diet. Canned pumpkin (plain, not pie filling!) is a good source of fiber and is safe for cats in small quantities. Pumpkin is about 90% water and almost 3% fiber, so it may help get things moving.
Many cat foods contain grains, but some cats have difficulty digesting them. You might want to try a grain-free food, along with food that contains prebiotics to support gut health.
Encouraging Exercise
Just like in humans, regular exercise promotes healthy digestion and helps your cat maintain a healthy weight. Try engaging your cat in regular play sessions with laser pointers, feather wands, or toy mice. You can also encourage climbing and jumping by buying or building cat trees or shelves.
Managing Stress
Stress can affect a cat’s digestion, so try to reduce stress in your cat’s environment by making sure they have a safe and comfortable space where they can retreat and relax. It also helps to maintain a consistent routine for feeding, playtime, and litter box cleaning.
Litter Box Management
Be sure to provide enough litter boxes, especially if you have multiple cats. The general recommendation is to have two litter boxes per cat in the household. And, of course, keep the litter boxes clean and easily accessible.
When home remedies aren’t enough
If your cat is still constipated after three days of home remedies, it’s time to call the vet. Long-term constipation can turn into obstipation, which means your cat’s colon is packed with hard, dry poop that it can’t pass.
You should also seek immediate veterinary care if your cat:
- is straining but not producing any stool
- is vomiting
- has lost its appetite
- seems tired or weak
- has a swollen or painful belly
These are signs of a potential emergency.
Don’t ever give your cat over-the-counter laxatives without talking to your vet first. Some of these medications can be dangerous for cats if you don’t use them correctly.
Your vet can figure out what’s causing your cat’s constipation and recommend the right treatment, which might include tests, prescription drugs, or, in rare cases, surgery.
Conclusion
The best way to help your cat avoid constipation is to take steps to prevent it. A balanced diet, plenty of fresh water, regular exercise, and a low-stress environment can all contribute to your cat’s overall health and well-being.
Regular grooming, especially for long-haired cats, can also help prevent constipation by preventing matted fur from blocking the anus.
By knowing what causes constipation, what symptoms to look for, and which home remedies can help, you can support your feline friend’s digestive health and ensure they live a happy, comfortable life.