Last updated on: August 21, 2023 by Crystal Uys
Constipation is an unpleasant but relatively common phenomenon in cats. This happens when cat poop becomes so dry and hard that it gets stuck. Cats generally have a bowel movement every 24 to 36 hours and their poop normally contains some moisture.
Constipated cats produce dry, hard stools when they finally manage to get things moving. It usually indicates the presence of a health problem that needs to be identified and treated. Ask for help if your cat goes 48 hours without a bowel movement. However, you can help your cat if he is constipated by increasing his water and fiber intake and implementing stress reduction measures.
What Causes Feline Constipation?
Constipation is often caused by dehydration, but it can also be linked to several conditions, such as kidney disease and hypothyroidism. When signs such as nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and concealment appear, in addition to constipation, it’s often a sign that something systemic is going on.
Stress, inflammatory conditions and allergies can cause intestinal problems. They can also become constipated if they hold things in for too long, which can be caused by pain, stress, mobility issues, fear, or hygiene issues. Overweight cats sometimes suffer from constipation as they are prone to developing intestinal inflammation.
Are there ways to improve the situation?
Yes. You can help your cat by changing his diet and increasing the amount of exercise he gets.
Change your cat’s diet
Constipation can sometimes be a side effect of food allergies and sensitivities. They can cause inflammation of the digestive tract in some cats, which can lead to constipation. Avoidance is generally the safest and easiest way to manage food allergies and sensitivities. Therefore, changing your cat’s food may make it easier for her to go to the toilet.
However, before making any changes to your pet’s diet, talk to your veterinarian to ensure you select a product that is appropriate for your cat’s age and meets all of their nutritional needs.
Increase your cat’s water intake
Cats sometimes have trouble pooping if they don’t get enough water, and indoor cats are notorious for not drinking enough water. Two products can help cats increase their fluid intake: cat fountains and wet food. Since cats generally prefer to drink from running water, offering a cat fountain to your companion can also encourage him to consume more water. Wet foods contain a significant amount of moisture, and some brands contain 75% or more.
Invest in enrichment toys
Cats are sensitive and can get bored and stressed if they don’t have enough to occupy them. Stressed cats may experience other digestive difficulties, such as vomiting and diarrhea, in addition to constipation. Increasing the number and variety of toys available to your cat can help reduce any anxiety they may be feeling and relax them enough to go to the bathroom.
Increase your cat’s physical activity
Like humans, cats need to move to stay physically and mentally fit. Cats that don’t get enough exercise often end up with pent up energy that manifests as stress. Playing with cats for 20-45 minutes a day gets their hearts racing. It’s best to keep gaming sessions short; 10 or 15 minutes of activity per round is enough for most cats.
Brush your cat more often
Cats develop hairballs when the fur does not pass through the digestive tract. They are often thrown up, but hairballs can also get stuck in your cat’s stomach or intestines, leading to constipation. Brushing your cat regularly can reduce the amount of hair she ingests while grooming. Short-haired cats should be brushed about once a week, but long-haired cats are particularly prone to developing hairballs and require daily brushing.
Help your cat maintain a healthy weight
Determining if your cat is a healthy weight can be difficult, but you can consult your veterinarian for advice. To help your pet lose a few pounds, measure their portions and limit treats to about 10% of their diet.
Add Vertical Hang Outs
Because constipation is often linked to stress in cats, giving cats places where they feel safe and comfortable can go a long way to reducing anxiety caused by constipation. Cats benefit from high places to relax and nap, such as cat shelves, trees and perches. They also give cats places to retreat to when they want to escape a loud visitor or an irritating dog.
Create a peaceful space for your cat
Cats have sensitive hearing, so they often become stressed when exposed to loud, repetitive noises. Creating a space for your cat to relax away from it all can help improve stress-related constipation. Pick a quiet spot that’s as far away from noise as possible, and make sure your cat has all the essentials nearby, including a litter box, toys, water, bed, and scratching post.
Clean the litter box daily
Cats sometimes become constipated because they hold her back to avoid using a stinky litter box. They can be extremely picky about their bathrooms. Simply cleaning your cat’s litter box more frequently can be helpful if your pet avoids going to the toilet for hygiene reasons.
Several cats
Make sure you have at least one litter box per animal, plus an extra one if you have multiple cats, to avoid situations where one cat consistently prevents the other from accessing the litter box. Avoid placing litter boxes in the same location as your pet’s food and water bowls, as cats don’t like to use the toilet close to where they eat.
older cats
Senior cats and animals with mobility issues I sometimes have litter problems due to pain and difficulty in moving. Litter boxes placed near places where older cats like to hang out can make it easy for them to reach the bathroom, and large litter boxes with low sides are often easier to navigate for pets with litter. painful joints.
Add fiber to your cat’s diet
Increase the amount of fiber in your pet’s diet can support their gastrointestinal health and encourage efficient bowel movement. It also helps water stay in the digestive tract, which minimizes constipation. Sugar-free canned pumpkin is often suggested as a tasty way to increase a cat’s fiber intake. However, it’s best to contact your veterinarian before giving your cat fiber for constipation to make sure it’s right for your pet.
Conclusion
Occasional constipation in cats can be managed by increasing your pet’s water and fiber intake. It is often linked to dehydration but can also be linked to inflammatory conditions, allergies and stress. However, if your cat has not defecated for 48 hours, they should be evaluated by a veterinarian as there is often an underlying issue causing the problem.
Featured Image Credit: Dina da, Shutterstock
About the Author
Ivy’s mom cat – a feisty little rescue kitten who is her one and only child. For the moment! Throughout her life, she was introduced to the special love found in bonding with a cat. Having owned several felines, she is more than certain that their love is unmatched, unconditional and unlike any other. Passionate about educating the public about all there is to know about felines, their behavior and their unique personalities, Crystal is dedicated to ensuring that all cats and their owners know the importance of mindful living. – and to love!