Cats Constipation Symptoms & Home Remedies Guide

Part 1: How to Determine If a Cat is Constipated?

Typically, if a cat hasn't had a bowel movement in over three days, it's a sign of constipation. However, it's important to note that this could also be due to the cat hiding its feces elsewhere. Here are some indicators to help you assess the situation:

1. Whimpering While Straining

You might notice your cat squirming and yowling in the litter box, appearing quite uncomfortable. This could mean the cat is struggling to pass stool, causing discomfort in the abdomen and rectum, or it could indicate a urinary tract issue. Be sure to differentiate between the two.

2. Passing Small Amounts of Watery Stool

Constipation in cats can also manifest as watery or loose stools. Since hard feces are stuck in the intestines, some of the softer, watery contents may leak out when the cat strains. This can easily be mistaken for diarrhea.

3. Lethargy

If your cat seems listless, has a decreased appetite, and frequently assumes a hunched posture, these are signs that its stomach might be in pain or discomfort.

4. Painful Vomiting

In severe cases of constipation, a cat might experience persistent pain due to the inability to pass stool. This discomfort can stimulate the vomiting center, leading to vomiting.

5. Frequent Painful Howls

If a cat is constipated and frequently emits painful howls, it may be due to feces being trapped in the intestines, causing abdominal pain. In such cases, a veterinary examination, including palpation and Xrays, may be necessary.

6. Sensitive Abdomen

While many cats dislike being touched around their bellies, if they trust their owner, they usually don't resist too much. If you notice your cat reacting strongly when touched there, with behaviors like biting or yowling, it's usually a sign of abdominal discomfort and a prompt veterinary checkup is recommended.

Part 2: How to Treat Cat Constipation

If the constipation symptoms are not severe, you can try treating it at home.

Firstly, you can offer your cat a small amount of a hairball lubricant or a hairball tablet. These products help to lubricate the intestines and aid in the passage of hairballs, which can also help with constipation. Simply follow the normal dosage instructions.

Secondly, you can give your cat some pumpkin puree mixed with butter. Peel and chop the pumpkin, then steam it until tender. Mix it with half the amount of butter and mash it into a paste. If your cat enjoys it, you can give it more, but avoid overfeeding to prevent diarrhea.

Lastly, gently massage your cat's abdomen and engage in play to stimulate its intestinal movement, promoting defecation and alleviating abdominal discomfort. If the constipation persists, it's best to seek veterinary treatment promptly.

For cats that frequently experience constipation, it's important to take preventive measures. Ensure your cat drinks plenty of water and gets regular exercise. Maintain a healthy diet and avoid feeding highfiber foods to prevent constipation.