The cat’s bodies functioning is almost similar to human beings although both of their digestive systems may vary. Constipation in cats is common. It is a condition that is caused by some of the factors we will discuss in this article. Constipation, however, has remedies and that the pet owner can work on or even seek help from a pet doctor/vet.
Symptoms of constipation in cats
Some symptoms are observed in a constipated cat.
Some of them include:
- �� Dry stool
- �� Decreased water intake
- �� Vomiting
- �� Reduced appetite
- �� Crying
- �� Hiding
- �� Painful defecation
Why is my cat constipated?
Several factors bring the constipation of the cat. These may be due to the diet, diseases or even lifestyle.
Low water consumption/dehydration
A dehydrated cat is more open to constipation compared to cat consuming a lot of water.
There are also chronic diseases such as kidney disease, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism which attacks the cat. These diseases dehydrate the cat resulting in constipation. According to Bales, overweighted cats are also prone to constipation.
Age
The older the cat, the higher the chances of contracting arthritis. Arthritis is a disease that makes cats experience pain when defecating. They, therefore, tend to hold the poop for a longer period exposing them to a constitution.
Other diseases
Megacolon disease is a disease that is common to cats. This disease attacked the colon causing it to function abnormally. It affects the food movements in the Colon and thus causing constipation or complete blockage of the colon in the cats.
Dealing with cat’s constipation at home
Cats constipation can also be dealt with at home by the pet owner. One can help the cat overcome this condition through,
Give the cat enough water.
Water helps soften the stool or the cat’s poop. Provide enough water sources for the cat to ensure that it has access to it whenever thirst struck. The water should be fresh to avoid adding other complications to the digestive system of the cat.
Dietary
Provide canned food to the cat if the cat avoids taking water. It mostly applies to the cats which are used to consuming dry food. Try to add water to soften the food being consumed by the cat. Canned food may also be a better solution to increase water intake by the cat.
Fibrous intake
Include fiber food in the cat’s diet. Some of the fiber sources could be canned pumpkin, wheat among others. It doesn’t matter the level of fiber in the cat’s diet, just including fibrous food in its diet is enough to cure constipation.
Exercise
Help the cat in physical exercises such as walking or even playing around with toys or other pets. It helps keep the body active and very relaxing thus aiding food digestion.
Medical remedies to cat’s constipation.
If all the home remedies for cat constipation does not work, it is essential to seek the vet or pet doctor to administer the constipation easing fluids such as an enema. The doctor can only do it. The vet doctor is very aware of your cat’s condition and knows which fluid is better for it. Not all the constipation easing fluids are applicable to the condition as others are toxic. Therefore this fluid administering should be done by specialists.
Wrapping up
Constipation in cats is a condition that you have control of as the owner and pet lover. A constipated cat is always uncomfortable and restless. As discussed above, you should always be aware of it when it attacks the cat. Use the above tips to maintain the cat’s health and to keep it free from constipation. Be watchful on its diet and lifestyle as all these contribute to the functioning of its food movements. Where possible it is good to know from the veteran why is my cat constipated?
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