Constipation is a malady that doesn't discriminate. It cuts across all categories of living animals and man. As long as the creature eats and digests food, it is likely to someday, somehow develop constipation. Cats are part of the animals that can be plagued by constipation. Therefore, you can say that feline constipation is a relatively common thing. Feline constipation is restricted to just the older cats even though it is more rampant and widespread among them that in the younger kittens.
Cats generally have a predictable pattern of lifestyle. They use the litter box about twice a day as their bowel movements are about the same period too. If there's a sudden change in this habit, then you could say that it is constipating.
The common symptoms associated with feline constipation include
- Frequency to the litter box. A cat doesn't just go to the litter box anyhow. So, when you notice it is doing that a lot without successfully passing out any stool, then you know it is suffering from constipation. If it does, it may just pass out some milky stool and in extreme cases, it might be mixed with blood.
- Loss of interest in food. A cat that is constipating may not have the desire to eat. If it does, it will take less than the normal quantity it consumes.
- Less active. Cats suffering from constipation tend to be lethargic and lonesome. They are usually less than their normal active self.
Therefore, when you notice these symptoms, don't assume it is diarrhea because of the passing of mucus containing a tinge of blood.
Cats suffer from three types of bowel disorder:
Megacolon caused by the expanding or dilation of the colon as a result of the strain involved in trying to pass out feces. Most cats with Megacolon suffer consistently from constipation. But not all cats that suffer constipation have megacolons.
Constipation is a result of the cat not being able to pass out feces
Obstipation is the complete blockage of the colon resulting in little to no bowel movement
The major causes of feline constipation are dehydration, hygiene, diet, and lack of exercise. Cats tend to be choosy about their litter box. So, a dirty litter box can be repulsive to a cat and it would rather not "go" than use a dirty litter box. Also, feeding cats with foods rich in fat and salt makes them dehydrate.
To treat the cat requires some simple steps. Take the cat to the veterinarian so he can determine the cause of the constipation and administer adequate treatment. Avoid feeding the cat with dry foods instead. Include lots of water in their diet and you'll have less incidence of feline constipation.
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