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Feline Constipation -- 4 Important Issues

by: KurtSchmitt
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Feline constipation is rather common among house cats. Too much fur in the gut, commonly referred to as hairballs, is the number one cause of this condition. Litter box aversion, kidney disease, and other physical and psychological causes may be a factor.

Too much hair in the gut, or a recent change in diet can cause a temporary constipation issue. For the average cat, a little bout of constipation every now and then is normal.

At higher risk are elderly cats, and those with other health problems, including pre-existing bowel or kidney problems. In any case, you'll want to be alert to a few warnings and issues concerning this condition.

Issues and warnings concerning feline constipation:

1. Never give human remedies to your cat -- Products for humans may be harmful or fatal to cats. You should never give a remedy designed for people to your cat unless it's recommended by a trained cat health professional. Tylenol, for example, is toxic to cats and should never be administered. If you're considering using a preparation made for people for constipation, talk to your veterinarian first.

2. Home made solutions -- Do not use home remedies without the advice of a veterinarian. For example, mineral oil is an old suggestion for constipation in cats. Mineral oil is easily inhaled into the lungs, however, and your cat's body won't break it down.

3. Giving enemas -- If an enema is recommended, it's best to have your veterinarian administer it in order to avoiding hurting your cat and getting battle scars yourself. If you do decide to give your cat an enema, make sure that you use one that has been recommended by your veterinarian so you're sure it's not harmful to cats. You'll also want an assistant to help you restrain your cat during the procedure.

4. Chronic feline constipation -- With long term constipation, there may be other more serious underlying medical conditions that need to be addressed. You should have a conversation with your veterinarian about the potential risks and issues. Some cats develop a condition known as megacolon. In a cat with megacolon, the size of the stool in the large intestine grows too large for it to leave the body.

Whatever the cause, if your cat suffers from feline constipation and the condition persists, you'll want to have a talk with your veterinarian about a solution.

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About the Author

Author Kurt Schmitt has created a website for cat lovers and writes about litter box problems, constipation in cats and other cat health issues  

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