Cat Constipation: 10 Critical Symptoms Every Cat Owner Must Know (And How to Treat It)

Cat constipation can be an alarming issue for pet owners. If a cat is constipated, it may lead to discomfort and even severe health problems if left untreated. Recognizing cat constipation symptoms early is essential to avoid complications such as feline constipation and vomiting. In this article, we’ll explore the most common signs of constipation in cats, its causes, and effective ways to help a constipated cat.

Whether you’re thinking, “How do I know if my cat is constipated?” or “What can I do if my cat can’t poop?”, you’ll find everything you need here. Learning how to tell if your cat is constipated will help you take quick action and keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

1. What is Cat Constipation?

Constipation in cats refers to the infrequent or difficult passage of stool. If your cat isn’t pooping as often as usual or shows signs of discomfort while trying to defecate, it could indicate constipation. On average, a healthy cat should have one bowel movement every 24-36 hours. If your cat is constipated for more than two days, it may point to a more serious issue.

Constipated cat poop is usually hard, dry, and small in size. In severe cases, your cat may completely stop passing stool, which could lead to dangerous conditions like obstipation or megacolon. It’s essential to recognize the symptoms early and act quickly.

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2. Cat Constipation Symptoms

It can be tricky to spot signs of constipation in cats, but these symptoms are common:

• Straining to poop: A cat having trouble pooping may spend a long time in the litter box.
• Small, dry, or no poop: Constipated cat poop tends to be small and hard.
• Vomiting and lethargy: Feline constipation and vomiting often go hand in hand.
• Loss of appetite: Your cat may refuse to eat when it’s uncomfortable.
• Frequent trips to the litter box: A cat trying to poop but can’t will repeatedly visit the box without success.
• Hunched posture or crying: Some cats show signs of pain while trying to poop.

These symptoms should alert you that something is wrong. If your cat is constipated for more than a couple of days, seek veterinary advice.

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3. Causes of Cat Constipation

There are several reasons why your cat might be constipated. Here are some common causes:

• Dehydration: Cats that don’t drink enough water often develop constipation.
• Diet low in fiber: A lack of fiber can make stool harder to pass.
• Hairballs: Cats groom themselves frequently, which can lead to hairball buildup in the digestive tract.
• Obesity: Overweight cats may struggle with bowel movements.
• Litter box issues: If your cat doesn’t like its litter box, it might hold in stool, causing constipation.
• Underlying illnesses: Kidney disease, diabetes, or other medical conditions can affect digestion.
• Aging: Senior cats often develop digestive problems, making them more prone to constipation.

Understanding these causes will help you take steps to prevent future issues. If your male cat shows constipation symptoms, it might indicate a more serious urinary or digestive problem.

4. How to Tell if Your Cat is Constipated

If you’re wondering, “How do I know if my cat is constipated?” or “Is my cat constipated?”, pay attention to its behavior. Some common signs include:

• Little to no stool in the litter box.
• Straining or crying when trying to poop.
• Unusual posture when attempting to defecate.
• Signs your cat is constipated may also include loss of appetite and vomiting.

It’s also important to look for subtle cues, like a cat with constipation symptoms avoiding the litter box. If you notice these signs and symptoms of constipation in cats, it’s time to intervene.

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5. Can Constipation in Cats Be Dangerous?

Yes, constipation in cats can become serious if left untreated. A constipated cat may develop a condition called obstipation, where the colon becomes overly full and stops working. In severe cases, your cat can develop megacolon, a condition where the colon becomes permanently enlarged.

A common question pet owners ask is, “Can a cat die from constipation?” While constipation alone isn’t fatal, complications like megacolon or severe dehydration can threaten your cat’s life if not addressed promptly.

6. What to Do if Your Cat is Constipated

If you think, “My cat is constipated, what should I do?”, here are some steps to take:

• Increase water intake: Encourage your cat to drink more water by adding wet food to its diet.
• Provide fiber supplements: Fiber-rich foods can help move stool through the digestive tract.
• Use a laxative (if recommended): Your vet may suggest a mild laxative to help with cat constipation.
• Gently massage the abdomen: Sometimes, light massages can help relieve constipation.

If these home remedies don’t work, or if your cat is constipated for several days, visit the vet. Severe cases may require medical intervention.

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7. How to Treat and Prevent Cat Constipation

To prevent constipation, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and ensure your cat stays hydrated. Here are some tips:

• Provide plenty of water: Cats need fresh water daily to stay hydrated.
• Feed wet food: Wet food contains more moisture and helps prevent hard stool.
• Add fiber to the diet: Pumpkin or fiber supplements can help regulate bowel movements.
• Encourage exercise: Physical activity helps keep digestion regular.
• Regular grooming: This helps reduce hairball formation, which can lead to constipation.

If you’re dealing with an older pet, learn how to treat a constipated senior cat by working with your vet. For chronic cases, your vet may prescribe medications or recommend special diets to help with cat constipation.

Conclusion

Recognizing the symptoms of constipation in cats early can prevent serious complications. If your cat seems constipated, try increasing water intake, adding fiber, or offering wet food. In more severe cases, consult your vet to rule out any underlying issues. Keeping a close eye on your pet’s habits is the key to early intervention and long-term health.

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