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Understanding Cat Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Modern Treatments

Updated: Jun 10

By Dr. Ryan Chuang


Constipation is a common but distressing issue for cats. If left untreated, it can lead to severe discomfort and permanent colon damage.

Cat Constipation

Why is My Cat Constipated?

There are many potential underlying causes for a feline to struggle with bowel movements:

· Dehydration: Often linked to Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), where hard, dry stools become difficult to pass.

·  Hairballs: Excessive grooming leads to the ingestion of large amounts of fur.

·  Abnormal Motility: Issues with nerve regulation or underlying intestinal inflammation.

·  Health Imbalances: Endocrine diseases or electrolyte imbalances (low potassium).

·  Physical Barriers: Pelvic fractures, obesity, arthritis, or intestinal tumors/foreign bodies.

·   Lifestyle: Lack of exercise or poor diet.


Common Symptoms & Diagnosis

You can tell your cat is constipated if you notice:

1.  Decreased frequency: No bowel movements for more than 2–3 days.

2. Straining: Vocalizing in pain or spending a long time in the litter box.

3. Secondary signs: Vomiting and a decreased appetite due to discomfort.


Diagnosis

A veterinarian can usually detect constipation through abdominal palpation, though X-rays are often required to assess the severity and check the pelvic structure.


Treatment Options

· Hydration and laxatives: We must correct dehydration before using laxatives, as these medications can pull more water from the body and harm the kidneys,

⚠️ For cat with kindey diseases who are already dehydrated, laxatives can potentially worsened the dehydration and cause some kidney injury.

· Fiber: Psyllium husk can be added into the food for mild cases and stimulate the bowel movement.

⚠️ However it's contraindicated for cat with megacolon, if your cat has megacolon, too much fiber in the food can actually worsen the megacolon.

· Motility:  Cisapride is often needed to stimulate intestinal movement.

· Enemas: If the constipation is causing issue, veterinarians may sometimes attempt to administer an enema, or inject fluid or stool softeners rectally, to see if the cat can pass the stool on their own.

⚠️ Some human enemas can be toxic to cats. Never administer human medications to your cat on your own.


Treatment for Severe Cases

· Manual evacuation: Traditionally, severe cases required anesthesia and manual removal, which can relieve the constipation immediately.

· The Non-Surgical Breakthrough (PEG-3350):  We now offer a no-anesthesia treatment using a feeding tube to administer a special solution (PEG-3350). Cats stay at the clinic for a few hours and typically pass the stool naturally within 6–12 hours, avoiding the risks of anesthesia.


🏥 Appointments & Inquiries

For any medical needs or assistance, please contact Paws and Tails Veterinary Hospital：

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