You are viewing the article How to Treat Constipation in Cats at Tnhelearning.edu.vn you can quickly access the necessary information in the table of contents of the article below.
Constipation is a common issue in cats that can cause discomfort and even potentially serious health problems if left untreated. Just like humans, cats can experience difficulties in passing stool, leading to a build-up of waste in their digestive system. While occasional constipation is usually not a cause for concern, chronic or severe cases require proper treatment to alleviate discomfort and restore normal bowel movements. This article will outline various methods and techniques to effectively treat constipation in cats, ensuring their overall well-being and preventing potential complications. Whether it be through dietary changes, medication, or behavioral modifications, understanding how to address constipation in cats is essential for responsible pet care.
This article was co-written by Ray Spragley, DVM. Ray Spragley is a veterinarian and owner/founder of Zen Dog Veterinary Care in New York. With experience working in a variety of institutions and private organizations, Spragley’s expertise includes the non-surgical management of superior anterior cruciate ligament tears, spinal disc disease (IVDD), and pain management in inflammation. Osteoarthritis. Spragley holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from SUNY Albany University and a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) degree from the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. He is also a Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) working at the Canine Rehabilitation Institute and a Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) of Chi University.
This article has been viewed 60,048 times.
Just like humans, cats sometimes have trouble having a bowel movement. If you see your cat sitting in the litter box for a long time, it’s probably constipated. If so, there are a few home remedies you can try to make your cat more comfortable. Your veterinarian can also give you helpful advice and medications to treat your cat.
Steps
Identify your cat is constipated
- A healthy cat will have a bowel movement once a day. Cat poop should be molded and not crushed. [1] X Research Source
- Many times your cat appears to be constipated, but there are other medical conditions that may initially manifest similarly. You need to monitor the cat to make sure there are no other problems.
- Straining when trying to have a bowel movement
- Small, hard, or dry stools
- Stools containing mucus or blood
- Anorexia
- Weight loss
- Tired
- Vomit
- There are signs of abdominal discomfort
- Don’t let your cat be constipated for too long to see a doctor – this can be a sign of something more serious than constipation. Cats can develop a variety of problems with prolonged retention of stool and straining during bowel movements, including bowel obstruction and an enlarged colon.
Treatment of constipation
- This procedure can use a simple indentation similar to the temperature method.
- In more severe cases of constipation, a sedative or general anesthetic may be needed to flush the cat’s bowels to clear the blockage.
- In some cases, a tumor may be at the root of the problem and requires surgical removal. If your cat develops megacolon due to chronic constipation that causes the colon muscles to lose the ability to push stool out, a doctor will need to surgically remove the colon.
- Remember to measure your medication and have it ready in advance. You should also have a cat treat on hand.
- Give the cat a treat before taking the medicine.
- Place the cat on a waist-high surface such as a bed or table, with the cat’s hind legs resting against you. Reassure the cat by petting and patting its head.
- Place your hand on the cat’s head, place your thumb and index finger on the cat’s front upper jaw and press in. The cat will open its mouth, but may raise its paws to prevent you from working. If someone supports you to hold the cat’s shoulder during this time, that’s fine.
- Hold the syringe or dropper with your dominant hand. Gently push the dropper between the back (or side) teeth, and deep into the cat’s mouth. Squeeze the medicine out of the dropper.
- Give the cat a bonus right away so that the cat forgets what is going on. If the cat struggles and is difficult to hold, wrap the cat tightly in a large towel.
- When giving liquid medicine to your cat, be sure to wash the dropper or syringe with hot water and use it on one pet only. Discard the instrument after completing the course of treatment.
- Add 2 teaspoons of pumpkin to the cat food. Canned food is usually better, as it’s easier to hide the pumpkin in canned food than it is in dry food. Some cats love the taste of pumpkin, others need canned food to disguise the pumpkin by mixing it with a favorite treat.
Prevent constipation
- Your cat may need to be fed a special high-fiber diet to manage chronic constipation. Your veterinarian can help you determine if necessary.
- Place a bowl of clean water in an accessible place for the cat, preferably next to the food dish. [5] X Trusted Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Go to source
- Some cats like to drink running water, such as a drip or automatic cat drinker.
- If you have any questions, ask your veterinarian.
- Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of psyllium husks to canned foods to increase dietary fiber and help your cat’s digestive system work smoothly.
- For some breeds, shaving once or twice a year for coat control also helps.
- Some popular products include Laxatone and Petromalt, which come in tubes. You can give it to your cat as a treat or mix it with an easy-to-swallow cat food.
- Some cats don’t like strongly scented litter, so you should use unscented litter.
Advice
- Although petroleum jelly has long been used to combat constipation and prevent hairballs, this product is not recommended for long-term use. This is a petroleum-based product, so it will interfere with the absorption of nutrients from food.
Warning
- If your cat is still having problems, take her to the vet right away.
- Many cats who are constipated will need to eat special diets and supplements for the rest of their lives. Weight loss for obese cats is a must. Cats may need to take stool softeners and/or bowel movements for the rest of their lives.
This article was co-written by Ray Spragley, DVM. Ray Spragley is a veterinarian and owner/founder of Zen Dog Veterinary Care in New York. With experience working in a variety of institutions and private organizations, Spragley’s expertise includes the non-surgical management of superior anterior cruciate ligament tears, spinal disc disease (IVDD), and pain management in inflammation. Osteoarthritis. Spragley holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from SUNY Albany University and a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) degree from the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. He is also a Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) working at the Canine Rehabilitation Institute and a Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA) of Chi University.
This article has been viewed 60,048 times.
Just like humans, cats sometimes have trouble having a bowel movement. If you see your cat sitting in the litter box for a long time, it’s probably constipated. If so, there are a few home remedies you can try to make your cat more comfortable. Your veterinarian can also give you helpful advice and medications to treat your cat.
In conclusion, constipation in cats is a common issue that can cause discomfort and potentially serious health problems if not addressed promptly. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures, cat owners can take steps to treat and alleviate constipation in their feline friends. Incorporating dietary changes, increasing water intake, regular exercise, and using appropriate litter can all help promote regular bowel movements. Additionally, the use of veterinary-approved laxatives and stool softeners, under the guidance of a veterinarian, may be necessary for severe cases. It is important to monitor your cat’s bowel movements and seek veterinary advice if constipation persists or if any concerning symptoms arise. By providing the necessary care and attention, cat owners can help ensure a healthy digestive system for their furry companions.
Thank you for reading this post How to Treat Constipation in Cats at Tnhelearning.edu.vn You can comment, see more related articles below and hope to help you with interesting information.
Related Search:
1. Best home remedies for constipation in cats
2. Common causes and symptoms of constipation in cats
3. How to prevent constipation in cats
4. The role of diet in treating constipation in cats
5. Professional treatments for constipation in cats
6. Safe and effective laxatives for constipated cats
7. Natural remedies for constipation in cats
8. Probiotics as a treatment for constipation in cats
9. How to massage your cat’s abdomen to relieve constipation
10. When to seek veterinary help for constipation in cats