Pet Constipation: A Neglected Issue You Can't Ignore

LongTerm Constipation in Pets: The Dangers

It's widely known that feces are the body's waste, and when it's not expelled regularly, it can lead to the reabsorption of waste products by the intestines. This can prevent the intestines from absorbing nutrients from the food we consume, ultimately causing liver and kidney damage. It can lead to a decrease in appetite in pets, and in severe cases, even death. It can also result in complications and, tragically, fatalities. Imagine the process of longterm constipation leading to illness in humans; since pets have shorter lifespans, their onset and progression of illness are also quicker. Therefore, it's crucial for owners to detect and treat constipation early!

Why Do Pets Get Constipated?

Many pet owners are unaware that constipation is one of the most common digestive system issues in cats. Cats suffer from constipation due to the accumulation of hard feces in the rectum, which is difficult to expel. This is closely linked to their aversion to drinking water. Other causes of constipation in cats include:

Trichobezoars, where hair balls block the intestines, leading to reduced gut motility.

Obesity and lack of exercise, which can weaken intestinal motility and cause constipation.

Ingestion of foreign objects.

Intestinal diseases such as rectal polyps, colitis, tumors, intestinal obstruction, or megacolon (colon dilation) caused by tumors.

Stress responses due to environmental changes, switching litter, or neglecting the litter box.

Other diseases or lack of movement after surgery.

Pelvic or hind limb fractures, dislocations, spinal diseases, arthritis, and more.

Anal glands, anal abnormalities, or injuries near the anus.

Medication side effects, as some drugs can affect the secretion of digestive juices.

PS: Sometimes, constipation in cats can be a symptom of an underlying condition. Therefore, it's important for owners to seek professional medical help promptly when they notice something is amiss (especially for new pet owners who should never selfmedicate). Dogs often suffer from constipation due to insufficient water intake or after surgery.

How to Identify Pet Constipation?

Pet feces are dry, loose, resembling sheep droppings, or cats have very dry feces that do not stick to the litter.

There is no bowel movement every day, sometimes not even every 23 days. Cats may sit in the litter box for a long time, urinate, but not defecate.

Experiencing dry heaves, which are caused by excessive straining during defecation.

Palpating the cat's lower abdomen reveals hard, tubular structures.

Depressed mood and decreased appetite.

Occasional feces stuck at the anus, with swelling around the anus.

What to Do About Pet Constipation?

Stay Hydrated

Encourage your cat to drink more water and feed them wet food as needed.

Increase Dietary Fiber

Pumpkin: It's rich in fiber and can help promote digestion and prevent constipation.

Olive Oil: It can act as a lubricant for the intestines.

Boost Activity Levels

Exercise is a key factor in promoting bowel movements.