Causes of Cat Constipation
After diarrhea, constipation is probably the second most common reason cat guardians take their feline companions to see a veterinarian.
Causes of cat constipation vary as widely as do prognosis and treatments for the condition. Many times the cause is lumped into a single category called megacolon, which basically means the cause of the constipation cannot be determined.
Regardless of the reason your cat is not going to the litter box, constipation can be a serious medical issue for a feline and you should seek veterinary attention for your pet as soon as possible.
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Symptoms
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Cat constipation occurs when your cat doesn't defecate or defecates infrequently, passing hard and dry feces. Oftentimes it is a symptom of an underlying disease or disorder.
It is most common in middle aged to older cats.
If your cat is constipated, you may notice that he strains or cries in the litter box. He may also go outside the litter box and appear to be hunched over due to discomfort.
Your cat is also likely to be lethargic, not eat well and appear depressed.
If the constipation continues, he may begin to lose weight and vomit.
Megacolon
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Megacolon is the most common diagnosis given for cat constipation.
It means that the colon is weak and dilated and the cause is unknown.
It is sometimes the cause of constipation in cats and other times it is a condition of long-term constipation.
"When the colon becomes distended with fecal material over a prolonged period of time, its ability to contract may be reduced or lost, resulting in megacolon," according to Dr. Ernest E. Ward Jr. DVM.
Manx cats are more prone to megacolon than other breeds. -
Obstruction
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Obstruction of the colon by a foreign object, tumor or other material is a common reason for cat constipation.
According to Dr. Roger Ross DVM, it's common to find "a bowel clogged up with hair or possibly the hide of chipmunk or rat," when surgery is performed on a constipated cat.
An intestinal hairball is another common cause for obstruction of the colon.
In addition to generally feeling unwell from constipation, an intestinal hairball will cause a fever, adding to the cat's malaise.
Lifestyle
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Not getting enough fiber in her diet may cause a cat to become constipated; and, not getting enough fluids can contribute to the condition.
Cats who don't get enough exercise are more likely to become constipated. Regular exercise helps to keep all of her systems working as they should.
A dirty litter box can also contribute to a cat's constipation. Cats are more likely to "hold" their need to defecate if the litter box is dirty.
Trauma
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Trauma that has damaged the nerves required for defecation, a pelvic fracture, pain associated with the litter box or pain caused by an unrelated disorder can all contribute to a cat's constipation.
Cats tend to "hold" their need to defecate if they associate pain with going to the litter box.
Dr. Alice M. Wolf DVM stated that degenerative joint disease in cats can cause them to have problems getting into the correct posture for defection, which can cause constipation.
Other Causes
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There are multiple additional causes for cat constipation.
Excessive grooming, anal sacs needing to be expressed, enlarged prostate, tangled hair in the area of the rectum, medications, neurological disorders, obesity and an abnormally shaped colon are just a few.
Key-Gaskell Syndrome is among diseases that contribute to cat constipation. Key-Gaskell is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system and is seen primarily in Great Britain.
Prevention
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As with nearly all health issues, prevention is the best medicine for cat constipation.
Ensure your cat does not get overweight. Include fiber in his diet and make sure he drinks plenty of water. Cats tend to prefer running water and a small fountain sometimes encourages cats to drink more.
Keep litter boxes clean. Play with your cat, or get her a companion to facilitate play and to encourage exercise.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Bethney Foster
