Feline constipation is not an uncommon problem. Untreated, it can lead to a very serious problem called megacolon. Megacolon is a dilation of the colon because the feces is unable to be moved out of the body. The colon continues to remove water from the feces until the feces becomes almost brick-like and is impossible to be normally expelled.

Signs of Constipation in cats

Cats with constipation will often struggle to pass feces in the litterbox. They may have bowel movements outside the litterbox. They may pass small, mucous covered stools after much effort. Cats with prolonged constipation can have a dull haircoat, lose weight, not eat, and vomit.

Common Causes of Constipation in Cats

1. Neurological Disease – Some cats such as the Manx breed can have an abnormality of the spinal cord that will affect the mobility of the colon. Injury to the spine or slipped discs can also affect the nerve supply to the colon.
2. Cancer – Intestinal and spinal cancers will affect the nerves of the colon and decrease normal movement of the colon, leading to constipation. Colon cancers and cancers of the pelvic canal will also cause constipation in cats as it prevents normal movement of stool.
3. Ingested Foreign Material – Items in the colon that are sharp and cause pain with attempted bowel movements will result in a cat that holds their stool, and constipation can result.
4. Metabolic Diseases – Kidney disease and diabetes, to name only a couple, can result in dehydration that puts an increased demand on the colon to resorb water. This can be combined with an older cat that has trouble using the litterbox because of joint pain and a cycle of constipation will start.
5. Behavioural – Lack of exercise reduces the mobility of the colon, often resulting in constipation in cats. Also, changes in the location of the litterbox or type of litter may cause a cat to not want to use the litterbox, and start the cycle of constipation.

What To Do When My Cat Is Constipated?

Constipated cats should be seen by theirveterinarianas soon as possible and examined for possible underlying diseases.Veterinary tests such as blood work, x-rays and ultrasoundmay be recommended.

Treatments For Constipated Cats

Treatment of a constipated cat will depend on any underlying diseases and the severity of the constipation. Severely affected cats may need anesthesia to remove the feces, while the worst affected cats may need to have their colon removed. For preventative tips, read my previous blog post abouthow to help keep your cat or dog from developing constipation.

Sincerely,

Dr. Kent Morley