Cats Intestinal Obstruction: Causes, Symptoms, and Trea

Cat Intestinal Obstruction Causes:

Intestinal obstruction in cats often occurs suddenly due to the ingestion of large, hardboned food items or foreign objects. It can also be a secondary condition following constipation, or as a result of intestinal parasites, tumors, abscesses, granulomas, intussusceptions, twists, invaginations, and hernias.

Primary Symptoms of Cat Intestinal Obstruction:

Acute onset is characterized by pain and restlessness, followed by persistent vomiting. Initially, the vomit consists of food and mucus, but later progresses to contain intestinal contents and bile. On palpation, the abdomen may be tense, with the cat showing resistance and vocalizing. Often, a blockage can be felt, along with an expansion of the anterior intestine due to gas. In severe cases, the cat may appear dull and dazed, hunching over and drawing in its abdomen, with increased breathing rate, and may even suffer from shock and death.

Prevention and Treatment of Cat Intestinal Obstruction:

If the blockage is small, an oilbased laxative can be used to facilitate the passage of the obstruction. However, if the blockage is large and hard, or if the affected section of the intestine has become necrotic, immediate surgical intervention is necessary. This involves the repositioning of the intestine, removal of the damaged area, followed by antibiotic therapy, fluid replacement, and supportive care. Postsurgery, the cat should be fed a liquid diet within the first 48 hours, and normal feeding can be resumed after three days, with continued attention to care and recovery.