If your cat becomes constipated, you’ll be able to notice the symptoms right away. Sometimes a change in your cat’s diet will cure the constipation, while other times, he might not be able to have a bowel movement because of a medical issue. If your cat’s constipation doesn’t improve after changing his diet, a trip to a veterinarian in Olathe, KS is recommended. Below you’ll discover the signs and treatment options for your constipated feline.
Symptoms
By watching how your cat acts in general and when using his litter box, you’ll be able to notice the signs of constipation. These may include:
* Trying to have a bowel movement without any results
* Straining and meowing in pain while trying to defecate
* Mucous or blood covered stool that’s hard and dry
* Vomiting
* No interest in food
* Non-active and fatigued
Cats normally have a bowel movement one to three times every day and if your kitty hasn’t had a bowel movement for at least one whole day, he’s constipated.
Treatment
To help relieve your cat’s constipation, feed him wet food with one teaspoon of added fiber such as bran, Metamucil or regular canned pumpkin. If adding fiber to your cat’s diet doesn’t help his constipation, you should take him to the vet for a diagnosis. After performing tests on your cat, the vet can find any health problems that’s causing your cat to be constipated. These may include an obstructed bowel, hairball, ingesting a foreign substance or object or a tumor. Depending on the cause of your cat’s constipation, the veterinarian in Olathe, KS may prescribe medication, a laxative, stool softener or surgery to correct the problem.
To keep your kitty from becoming constipated, make sure he stays active, has ample fiber in his diet and plenty of water to drink. Regular wellness visits to your vet will also keep your cat healthy because your vet can diagnose and treat any health problems before they get worse.
Falcon Valley Animal Hospital offers wellness checks, testing, dentistry, surgical procedures and emergency care for your pets. Visit their website at for their contact information and office hours.
