Is your cat not pooping as regularly as they should? A constipated cat can be uncomfortable, cranky, and even in pain. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you understand cat constipation and how to get things moving again.
In this article, we will explore the causes of cat constipation, symptoms, and remedies to keep your kitty’s digestive system moving properly.
First things first—what exactly is cat constipation? Simply put, it’s when your cat has difficulty passing stool or doesn’t poop as often as they should.
Ideally, cats should have a bowel movement at least once a day. But if your furry friend is going two or more days without doing their business, they might be constipated.
A wide array of causes can lead to cat constipation.
Several factors can cause constipation in cats. Let’s take a look at the most common reasons why your furry feline friend might become constipated.
So, how do you know if your cat is constipated? Early signs of cat constipation can be easy to miss if you don't know what to look for. Familiarizing yourself with the most common symptoms of a constipated cat can help you act quickly and provide relief before more serious symptoms and discomfort occur.
Here are some telltale signs:
If your cat is spending more time than usual in the litter box but not producing much (or any) poop, they could be constipated. Your kitty might appear to be straining to pass the stool. They could circle and dig in the litter before trying again to unsuccessfully pass the stool.
Check the litter box regularly when you scoop. If you notice small, hard, and dry stools, it’s a sign of constipation.
A constipated cat may seem less active and more tired than usual. Some cats sleep by the litter box and don’t venture far because they keep continuing to try to pass stool.
If your cat isn’t eating as much, constipation could be the culprit. Keep a close eye on your kitty because what you think is a simple case of constipation could indicate something more serious such as a gastrointestinal blockage.
Sometimes, constipation can cause your cat to vomit, especially if they’re straining to poop or are experiencing pain or bloating. If your kitty is vomiting and having a difficult time passing stool then you might want to contact your cat’s veterinarian.
Now that you know what causes constipation in cats and how to spot it, let’s talk about how to help resolve your cat's digestive woes. While most mild bouts of constipation have similar remedies, there are some cats and some situations for which you may want to take a different approach.
Here's a quick breakdown of the different remedies you can try to resolve cat constipation at home:
Food can be the best medicine when it comes to issues with your cat's digestive health. Using real food ingredients to boost digestion can help a constipated cat naturally and safely at home. The trick to using food to cure cat constipation is in choosing the right types of fibre.
Fibre is a key part of good digestion, so a cat diet rich in the right kinds of fibre can help to prevent and resolve bouts of cat constipation. As carnivores, cats don't have a high need for fibre, but it doesn't mean it can't be a helpful tool for supporting good digestion in cats.
Foods that are naturally rich in both soluble and insoluble fibre, like pumpkin, oats, and sweet potato can be used in the early stages of constipation or as a preventative measure for cats that frequently experience fluctuations in stool quality.
Gradually introducing small portions of cooked or pureed fibre-rich ingredients can help to soften stool and improve digestive motility.
Though diet should always be your first step when seeking cat constipation solutions, sometimes diet alone can not fix the problem.
If your cat is straining to poop or can not pass stool, there are some supplements that you can use to boost digestion, soften stool, and get things moving again.
Before trying any of these home remedies, you should contact your vet to rule out serious risk or illness as a cause or contributor. Bowel obstructions, disease, infection, or severe dehydration can all be life-threatening. If your cat is in pain, lethargic, vomiting, or refusing food or water, this could be an emergency.
In more extreme cases, your vet may recommend a prescription laxative for cats or a stool softener to help your cat pass stool quickly and prevent further symptoms or injury.
Senior cats are more prone to constipation due to a slower digestive system and potential medical issues. Digestive issues are often a natural part of aging, but you can act proactively to prevent them and safely monitor and resolve them at home with the right tips.
Here’s how to treat a constipated senior cat:
Many over-the-counter remedies can be used to treat and prevent cat constipation. These are great tools to keep on hand. You never know when digestive issues will arise, and the quicker you can act, the quicker you can provide your pet with relief.
Here are a few constipation preventatives and remedies that can naturally restore your feline friend’s digestive tract health:
If your cat is struggling with constipation, try Thrive Slippery Elm Powder. This all-natural solution coats the cat's intestinal tract, reducing inflammation and providing much-needed relief. It's a fast-acting formula that can help get things moving again.
Probiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut. Purina Pro Plan FortiFlora Feline Probiotic Supplement supports your cat's digestive system by balancing the gut flora, which can help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
For a delicious way to support digestion, try Tiki Cat Grain-Free Tummy Topper. This high-fiber food topper not only adds moisture to your cat’s diet but also helps keep their digestive system running smoothly, making it easier for them to pass stool.
This high-fibre pâté recipe is a tasty way to support your cat’s digestive health. Go! Solutions Digestive Health Booster for Cats is specially formulated to promote gut health and regular bowel movements, helping to prevent and alleviate constipation.
If your cat needs a little extra digestive support, these soft chews are an excellent option. NaturVet Digestive Enzymes Cat Soft Chews contain digestive enzymes that help break down food more efficiently, making it easier for your cat to pass stool and maintain regularity.
These products, combined with proper hydration and a balanced diet, can help keep your cat’s digestive system in check and prevent constipation.
Cat constipation is no fun for you or your furry friend, but it’s usually easy to treat once you know what to do. Keep your cat hydrated, provide plenty of fibre, and make sure they stay active. Regular check-ups with your vet will also help catch any issues before they become serious.
Seeing your pet feeling under the weather is no fun and can even be a little bit scary, but with the right tips and tools, you can learn to safely and naturally manage your cat's digestive health at home. Remember to keep your vet in the loop and don't hesitate to give them a call if your remedies aren't working or symptoms worsen.
If you need high-quality products to help manage your cat’s digestive health, check out the options at Homes Alive Pets. Remember, a happy cat is a healthy cat! So, keep those litter box habits in check, and you’ll both be purring with contentment in no time.
Most cats should poop once a day. However, it can vary depending on their diet, age, and activity level. If your cat is pooping every other day or less, it could be a sign of constipation. Keep an eye on their litter box habits and consult your vet if you notice any changes.
A constipated cat may eventually pass a bowel movement on their own, but it's not recommended to rely on that. Natural remedies like the ones above can be used at the first signs of constipation to correct the issue quickly and prevent worsening symptoms.
Pumpkin is a highly effective tool for treating mild constipation in cats. Results can vary, but typically relief from symptoms can be seen in as little as 24 hours.
Fibre needs to be fed in moderation. Too much fibre can lead to worsening symptoms or other digestive issues in cats. It's important to always introduce high-fibre foods and supplements gradually and never exceed recommended dosages.
Olive oil and other oils and fats can act as a lubricant but are not recommended. These high-fat food products can lead to other digestive issues and even severe illnesses like pancreatitis. If you suspect your cat needs a laxative, contact your vet.