While cat constipation can be a pretty frequent issue, each cat will have a unique set of reasons and symptoms. Learn everything you need to understand about this ailment to aid in its prompt treatment and stop it from reappearing unexpectedly in your cat's life.
If you think your cat could be constipated, you surely want to find out what's causing it and how to help your cherished pet. In this post, we'll go over the crucial details you need to know, from early warning signs to vet cat constipation therapy, as well as how you can prevent the discomfort and help your cat get back to being happy and healthy.
What causes feline constipation?
If you think your cat could be constipated, you surely want to find out what's causing it and how to help your cherished pet. In this post, we'll go over the crucial details you need to know, from early warning signs to vet cat constipation therapy, as well as how you can prevent the discomfort and help your cat get back to being happy and healthy.
What causes feline constipation?
Cat constipation is characterized by an abnormal buildup of excrement in the colon, which makes bowel movements challenging. Typically, it will either show up as a decreased capacity for bowel movements or as their total absence. The feces stay in the colon, where they become extremely hard and dry and are even more difficult for your cat to evacuate because the colon's primary function is to absorb water.
Signs of constipation in cats
You might want to keep a lookout for the following other cat constipation symptoms:
1: Rigid abdomen
2: Small, dry, and hard stools
3: Straining, which owners may mistake for trouble urinating
4: Occasionally having no appetite.
5: Crouching position
Cat constipation is likely to affect a cat who hasn't pooped in more than 24 hours. Yet, as some cats are known to prefer using the restroom outside as well, owners occasionally may not be aware of their cat's regular potty schedule.
Causes of constipation in cats
Finding the source of constipation was just as crucial as identifying the signs and symptoms. There are numerous additional possible causes for cat constipation, despite the fact that dehydration is the most frequent one:
1: Dehydration, especially in senior cats, may be caused by kidney dysfunction.
2: They consume either too little or too much fiber.
3: Sedentary kind of life
4: One of the main causes of hair ingestion in long-haired cats
5: Avoid using a litter tray when the litter has to be cleaned and changed.
6: Hernia
7: Tumors close to the pelvic area
8: Some drugs' side effects
9: Nerve condition
10: Pelvic injuries that cause the pelvic canal to become narrow
11: Ingesting an object that is alien causes a digestive blockage.
11: Ingesting an object that is alien causes a digestive blockage.
Consult your veterinarian to determine the root cause if you're unclear on whatever caused it or when your cat experiences constipation frequently. Depending on the results, the course of treatment may range from dietary adjustments to prescription medicine.
Cat constipation diagnosis
Constipation in felines is typically easy to identify based on symptoms and medical background. Your veterinarian will inquire about your cat's current health and will be feeling behind the cat's colon, where he or she ought to be able to find the feces that have gathered there. If additional testing is required to determine the underlying reason, your veterinarian may perform abdominal and pelvic X-rays to check for injuries, anomalies, or pelvic canal tumors. To rule out the potential of an underlying condition, blood and urine tests may also be performed.
How to relieve constipation in a cat
While you can treat mild feline constipation at home, if you are having trouble getting the cat to return to its regular bowel habits, don't hesitate to call your veterinarian. While you wait for your appointment with the veterinarian, you might try the following home remedies:
1: Improved fiber intake, more exercise, and more hydration
2: Attempt probiotics
3: Reduce stress and keep your weight healthy.
Making sure your cat stays hydrated during the day might help ease the symptoms of constipation. To encourage your cat to consume more water, keep water bowls nearby in various locations around the house. Wide water bowls are a wonderful option because cats typically prefer that their whiskers not touch the sides. Additionally, they choose dishes made of metal or porcelain. Ensure that any food and litter tray locations are separated from the water bowls.
Try to tempt some cats who prefer to drink water that's running by having the tap run and taking the plug out! Some cats also enjoy water fountains, which should be well cleaned on a regular basis to keep your cat interested in utilizing them. Cats might be challenged to get extra water. One of the simplest ways to improve your cat's water intake is to feed it a wet diet.
Making sure your cat stays hydrated during the day might help ease the symptoms of constipation. To encourage your cat to consume more water, keep water bowls nearby in various locations around the house. Wide water bowls are a wonderful option because cats typically prefer that their whiskers not touch the sides. Additionally, they choose dishes made of metal or porcelain. Ensure that any food and litter tray locations are separated from the water bowls.
Try to tempt some cats who prefer to drink water that's running by having the tap run and taking the plug out! Some cats also enjoy water fountains, which should be well cleaned on a regular basis to keep your cat interested in utilizing them. Cats might be challenged to get extra water. One of the simplest ways to improve your cat's water intake is to feed it a wet diet.
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