Cat Hemorrhoid Treatments
If your cat is showing distress when using the litter box or right afterward, this may be a sign of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids occur when blood vessels inside the rectum or around the anus become inflamed and swollen. Often there are relatively easy ways to identify and treat hemorrhoids in cats.
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Identification
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A cat that licks or bites excessively near the anal area or frequently scoots on the floor may be exhibiting signs of hemorrhoids. Another sign is swelling of the skin around the anus. Blood in the stool may be a sign of internal hemorrhoids.
Causes
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A lack of fiber and water can cause hemorrhoids. Other factors are heredity, old age, and straining from constipation.
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Solution/Treatment
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It is critical to take your cat to the veterinarian immediately if it shows signs of distress that may be due to hemorrhoids. Your cat may be given a topical ointment for external hemorrhoids or a suppository for internal hemorrhoids.
Prevention
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You can help prevent hemorrhoids in your cat by making sure fresh water is always available and by adding fiber to the diet. Encourage exercise every day, as a sedentary lifestyle may contribute to the formation of hemorrhoids.
Warning
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Take your cat to the veterinarian immediately if it show signs of hemorrhoids, because the problem may be something more serious, like anal prolapse, or something entirely different, like worms. If left untreated or misdiagnosed, hemorrhoids can lead to cancer.
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