Is Cat Constipation An Emergency? What Should I Do?

Constipation is no fun for anyone, including our feline friends. When your cat is having trouble going to the bathroom, it can quickly become a medical emergency.

Here’s what cat owners need to know about treating constipation at home, signs of a serious issue, and when to seek veterinary care immediately.

What is Constipation in Cats?

Constipation in cats is defined as infrequent or difficult defecation. Your cat may be straining to pass stool without success, have hard or dry stool, or sometimes produce no stool at all.

Cat constipation is generally short-term. But if left unchecked, it can progress to obstipation, which is painful defecation. In the worst cases, chronic constipation can lead to megacolon severe dilation of the colon that may require surgery.

So what should you watch for to know if your cat is constipated? Here are some common signs of cat constipation:

• Little or no poop production despite repeated trips to the litter box
• Hard, dry, or small stools
• Straining or crying out while trying to poop
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Lethargy or depression
• Abdominal pain or distension

🚨 If your cat is straining in the litter box, take them to the vet right away. This symptom could indicate a potentially life-threatening blockage or obstruction.

What Causes Constipation in Cats?

There are a few possible causes for constipation in cats:

Litter Box Issues

If the litter box isn’t cleaned frequently or located in a convenient spot, your cat may start avoiding it. This can lead to constipation pretty quickly. Try moving the litter box to a quiet location and keep it clean.

Dehydration

Cats who don’t drink enough water can easily become constipated. Make sure your cat has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Consider getting a cat fountain if they don’t seem interested in their water bowl.

Underlying Disease

Kidney disease, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism can all cause constipation. Take your cat to the vet promptly if they are straining to rule out these serious conditions.

Blockage or Obstruction

If your cat ate a foreign object or has a tumor or mass in their intestines, it can get clogged up and prevent defecation. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate vet care.

Inactivity

Lack of exercise can lead to constipation. Make sure your cat has opportunities for daily play and activity. Cat trees, toys, and playtime help them stay active.

Diagnosing Cat Constipation

Diagnosing the cause of cat constipation starts with a physical exam and diagnostic tests. The vet will:

• Palpate your cat’s abdomen to feel for impacted stool

• Take X-rays to see the extent of stool buildup and look for potential blockages

• Run blood work to uncover underlying disease

• Review your cat’s history - age, diet, medication, symptoms, etc.

Providing your vet with a full history is crucial for an accurate diagnosis. Straining can indicate constipation OR difficulty urinating. Inability to pee is an immediate emergency, so distinguishing the cause is critical.

Treating a Constipated Cat

Treating a constipated cat depends on the underlying cause and severity. Here are some common treatment methods:

• Hydration - Giving subcutaneous or intravenous fluids. Ensuring your cat drinks enough at home.

• Diet Change - Switching to canned food or a vet-prescribed high fiber diet.

• Laxatives - Over-the-counter cat laxatives to soften stool. Only give medications approved for cats.

• Enemas - To manually clear blocked stool and provide relief. Should only be done by a vet.

• Surgery - For recurring constipation or megacolon that doesn’t respond to other treatment. Removes part of the colon.

• Medication - For underlying conditions like diabetes or thyroid disease.

• Environment - Reducing stress. Adding more litter boxes. Ensuring easy access to litter.

😿 Relieving acute constipation is just the first step. Preventing recurrence requires determining and managing the underlying cause, whether it’s disease, diet, or something else.

Preventing Constipation Recurrence

If addressed quickly, most cats recover rapidly from constipation once the blockage is relieved. But recurrence is likely if you don’t identify and treat the cause. Here are some tips for prevention:

• Give any prescribed medications as directed. Don’t stop treatment without vet approval.

• Make any recommended environmental changes to reduce stress and increase activity.

• Transition slowly to a new diet under your vet’s guidance.

• Note your cat’s potty schedule to catch problems early. Mark calendar each time they poop.

• Bring a stool sample to the vet if you notice constipation starting again.

• Schedule regular checkups to monitor underlying health conditions.

• Call your vet right away if symptoms reappear. Don’t wait!

🚨 Constipation lasting 48 hours or more requires an urgent vet visit. Also see the vet immediately if your cat is very lethargic, vomiting, or unable to eat. These can indicate a dangerous blockage. Don’t delay - it could be life-threatening.

Conclusion

Cat constipation can happen to any feline. Stay vigilant for symptoms so you can get veterinary care right away. With prompt treatment guided by your vet, most cases can be resolved and recurrences prevented.

But never hesitate to call your vet if constipation persists or you notice signs of straining, vomiting, or appetite loss. Your cat’s health and comfort are too important!

Act quickly and you can help your constipated cat get back to their happy, regular self in no time.