Treatments for Extremely Constipated Cats

• Always visit a vet first when your cat suffers from constipation.cat image by YOKE LIANG TAN from Fotolia.com
  
  Just like their human counterparts, cats will develop serious medical consequences if they suffer from untreated constipation. Constipated cats run the risk developing "megacolon", defined by fecal compaction and stretching of the colon,resulting in painful strained movements and possible death. Even with treatment, always make a trip to the vet to rule out other underlying complications. (See Reference 1)
  
  

Diet

• The food fed to domestic cats that live their lives exclusively inside tends to lead to constipation because cats' biological needs compel them to eat mostly a diet of raw meats when they live in the wild. Commercial dry cat foods that contain extra digestive enzymes and fiber, normally marketed as food for older cats, or wet foods with the same additives, ease symptoms of constipation in the long run. (See References 1)
  
  

Exercise

• Veterinarian Dr. Kevin Wright says that sometimes a cat that does not get enough exercise and has weak abdominal muscles tends to be susceptible to constipation. Spending time with the cat and making sure it plays regularly may help the issue. (See References 3)
  
  

Fiber

• Unlike providing the constipated cat with food containing extra fiber, the "Cat Owners Veterinary Handbook" suggests using flavorless fiber supplements added to water such as Metamucil in small doses to relieve constipation in a timelier manner. (See References 2 & 4)
  
  

Over The Counter

• If the situation is severe enough to warrant more potent treatment, an over the counter medicine might prove helpful. Treatments normally intended for hairball removal also help in matters of constipation. These oral supplements contain things like cod liver oil and soft paraffin. Only use laxatives like these in severe cases, and not on a regular basis. (See References 2)
  
  

Vet Care

• In the most severe of cases, a vet might need to prescribe medicine for your cat, order x-rays and run other tests to determine the nature of the problem. Long-term therapy might be in order if the situation warrants it. (See Resources 1)
  
  

Prevention

• Just like in the old saying, the best cure is prevention. Keeping a calm, stress free environment for your cat lends to its overall health and may prevent unnecessary constipation from ever happening. Regular grooming also helps to prevent hairballs, which can sometimes be the cause of fecal compaction in the first place. (See References 2 & Resources 1)