Cat Constipation: An Overview
Dog Breeds
Constipation in cats is the infrequent, incomplete or difficult passage of feces from the colon. The colon – also called the large bowel or large intestine - is the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract that spans from the cecum to the rectum and anal canal.
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Definition of Constipation
Constipation is the infrequent, incomplete or difficult passage of feces from the colon. The colon – also called the large bowel or large intestine - is the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract that spans from the cecum to the rectum and anal canal. The cecum is the beginning of the large intestine.
How Constipation Affects Cats
Constipation, which is fairly common in domestic cats, does not necessarily indicate loss of bowel function. Most cats defecate once or twice a day. When a cat only passes stool every two or three days, the waste matter remains in the colon and becomes hard and dry, because the lower large intestine is the primary site of concentration and storage of digestive waste products. Affected animals will strain to defecate, with little if any fecal output. (Note that cats with colitis, urethral obstruction or feline lower urinary tract disease can also show signs of straining; these conditions must be differentiated from constipation before treatment begins.)
Constipated cats may vocalize due to pain, “scoot” their hind end across the floor and lick or bite at their anal area. Any stool that is successfully passed typically is small in volume, very dry and rock-hard. Sometimes, a small amount of greasy and/or bloody diarrhea will be passed around the dry fecal balls. Prolonged constipation can cause weakness, depression, lethargy, loss of appetite (inappetence; anorexia), weight loss and vomiting. Affected cats may become bloated and uncomfortable, be reluctant to play and even reject favorite treats. The constant straining can cause the entire anal area to become irritated and inflamed. While mild constipation can resolve itself, severe cases require immediate veterinary attention. If left unattended, the lower bowels can become completely impacted with fecal matter, making defecation impossible. This dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition is called obstipation. Obstipation is a true medical emergency.
Causes of Constipation in Cats
The causes of feline constipation are many and varied. They include behavioral and environmental conditions, such as sudden changes in household routines, people or activities, lack of exercise or dirty litter boxes. Dietary indiscretion is a major cause of constipation in dogs, but less so in cats. Some cats do become constipated by ingesting indigestible things like paper, bones, cloth, fabric, pieces of rugs, plastic, pebbles or grass. Cats are especially prone to becoming constipated from dehydration and from ingesting fur associated with self-grooming.
Constipation can also be caused by hormonal abnormalities, pain in the pelvic area from trauma, arthritis or otherwise, spinal disk disease, and injuries or masses that impact the lower gastrointestinal tract such as polyps, anatomical deformities or cancer. Anal gland infections, rectal foreign bodies and bite wounds around the “rear end” can interfere with normal defecation and contribute to constipation. Certain drugs can impair the contractility of the muscles lining the small and large intestines, and certain foods can increase the chance of constipation as well. Cats that are obese, dehydrated, elderly, inactive or particularly stressed may defecate less frequently than normal, predisposing them to constipation and colonic impaction. Cats suffering from chronic renal failure are also predisposed to becoming constipated.
A chronic medical condition called megacolon can also contribute to constipation. Cats with this disorder have an abnormally large colon that does not contract and move stool down its path as it is supposed to. These cats require lifelong medication with stool softeners, motility modulators and special dietary management, always under the supervision of a veterinarian. Cats that are genetically or congenitally tailless, such as the Manx, are prone to constipation from the developmental and neurological abnormalities associated with their condition.
Prevention of Constipation in Cats
No one feels good when they are constipated, dogs and cats included. Cats are especially prone to constipation because of their constant grooming, which causes hairballs to accumulate in their digestive tract and “clog up the pipes,” so to speak. The best way to prevent constipation is to brush cats regularly and use an oral hairball preventative. This is especially important in long-haired breeds. Some cats also become constipated when the fur around their anus becomes matted, forming a physical barrier to defecation. Keeping this fur trimmed and the surrounding area clean can help prevent this cause of constipation.
All cats should have free access to fresh water at all times, unless otherwise recommended by a veterinarian. Good hydration can greatly reduce the risk of constipation. A healthy diet and moderate activity also promote regularity in cats, as in people. In cases of chronic constipation, a veterinarian can teach the owner how to palpate the cat’s abdomen to assess whether and to what extent it is has retained fecal matter. This will give the owner a head start on treating the problem, before it becomes serious.
Special Notes
Chronic constipation causes significant discomfort and can permanently damage the sensitive lining of the colon and rectum. Owners of constipated cats should consult with their veterinarian to determine the best diagnostic and treatment protocols.
Hairballs in Cats