Why Is My Cat Not Pooping? The Complete Guide

Feline constipation, a prevalent issue among cats, can range from mild inconveniences to severe discomfort. Recognizing the symptoms, understanding potential causes, and exploring appropriate remedies are crucial for cat owners to ensure the optimal health and well-being of their feline companions.

Identifying Symptoms of Cat Constipation

One of the primary indicators of constipation in cats is a noticeable reduction in the frequency of bowel movements, typically occurring every 12–24 hours. If this regularity diminishes significantly, coupled with visible discomfort, it might suggest constipation. Healthy cat feces are characterized by a rich brown color and well-formed consistency. In cases of constipation, the stools tend to become excessively dry and hard, causing potential pain and difficulty during elimination. Observing a cat crying, straining in the litter box, or even avoiding it altogether could signify constipation.

Why Is My Cat Not Pooping?

The underlying causes of cat constipation are diverse and can range from mild to severe. Dehydration is a common culprit, disrupting the normal moisture balance required for smooth bowel movements. Stress, anxiety, inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, nerve problems, and specific cancers can contribute to irregular intestinal movements. Chronic diseases like kidney issues, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism may exacerbate constipation. Additionally, anal sac problems, obesity, pain from arthritis, and physical blockages can impede the natural flow of stools.

What is the Remedy for Constipation in Cats?

Fortunately, most of the time, cat constipation can be treated at home with specific remedies. Constipation can be managed easily as long as it does not become chronic or frequent. The following are all treatments for constipation:

Food

When it comes to food for constipated cats, one ingredient you need to avoid is grains. Most cat food is formulated for gastrointestinal health because it is not easy for them to break down. It can take too much time for grains to digest, and it can turn into more fat than is necessary. Feeding your cat grains at every meal can result in serious health issues.

You may want to pay attention to keywords like prebiotics in your cat food’s formula. Prebiotics can help improve gut health so that your cat can digest foods more effectively. Prebiotics supports the development of good bacteria in your cat’s gastrointestinal system, which can enhance both nutrient absorption and immunity.

There are foods that are specifically formulated to prompt your cat to have healthy daily bowel movements. It would be the best idea to talk to your vet before starting any special diet for your cat.

Regular Exercise

If your cat leads a sedentary life, this can contribute to constipation. Obesity can make your cat lethargic. Incorporate some daily exercise into their routine. It will improve the function of their intestines. Make playtime interesting for them. There are so many toys on the market to choose from.

Increased Water Intake

Water helps help to lubricate their bowels and get things going. You can increase your cat’s water consumption by feeding them more wet food. Cats get most of their water consumption from their food.

Place water bowls all over the house to encourage them to drink more. You can also add low sodium chicken broth to their food to spice things up for them.

Laxatives

Talk to your vet regarding giving your cat a safe and effective laxative if you have tried the natural route and it did not work. You may consider adding one teaspoon of Metamucil per day to your cat’s wet food. Make sure your feline has enough water available when using this laxative.

Surgery

If your cat has lost permanent loss of function of the affected colon, surgery may be the only way to correct the problem. Therefore, it is essential to take care of cat constipation when you first see the symptoms.

Surgery involves the removal of the affected portions of the colon. Cats have a positive outcome from having this procedure. It would be best if you chatted about this option with your vet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while cat constipation poses varied challenges, a proactive and comprehensive approach to care can mitigate its impact. Regular veterinary check-ups, swift recognition of symptoms, and adherence to prescribed treatments contribute to the overall well-being of feline companions. Whether implementing dietary changes, encouraging exercise, or considering medical interventions, a cat owner's commitment to their pet's health remains paramount. Always consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice and guidance.