Most healthy cats pass stools once or twice a day, although once every day or two can be normal for some cats. If your cat is going less often than usual, straining or passing small, hard, dry stools, it may be constipated. Here’s what causes constipation in cats, how to tell it apart from a dangerous urinary problem and when to call the vet.
Straining in the litter box isn’t always constipation. A cat, especially a male cat, that strains and produces little or no urine may have a urinary blockage. This is a life-threatening emergency: go to a vet immediately.
Signs of Constipation
- fewer stools than usual, or none for more than a day or two;
- straining or crying in the litter box;
- small, hard, dry stools, sometimes found outside the litter box;
- a little liquid stool or mucus passed around hard feces;
- loss of appetite;
- vomiting;
- lethargy, hiding or seeming uncomfortable;
- a tense or painful belly.
Common Causes
- dehydration, especially in cats that eat only dry food or don’t drink much;
- hairballs and swallowed fur;
- a low-fiber diet, or a sudden change of food;
- lack of exercise and being overweight (read more about obesity in cats);
- a dirty or unsuitable litter box, or stress, which can make cats “hold it”;
- pain from arthritis or injury, which makes squatting uncomfortable;
- swallowed objects, such as bones or string;
- medications;
- illnesses, such as kidney disease, diabetes and hyperthyroidism, which can cause dehydration, or nerve and muscle problems affecting the colon (megacolon).
When to Call the Vet
Call your vet if your cat hasn’t passed a stool for more than 48 hours, or straight away if your cat:
- is straining with little or no urine (see the warning above);
- is vomiting, not eating or lethargic;
- seems in pain or has a swollen belly;
- has blood in its stool (read more about blood in cat stool);
- has repeated episodes of constipation.
Your vet will examine your cat and may recommend X-rays or blood tests to find the cause. Treatment depends on the cause and severity, and may include fluids, a prescription diet, stool softeners or laxatives made for cats, or an enema given at the clinic.
Never give your cat human laxatives, enemas or suppositories, mineral oil or other home remedies. Many human enemas are toxic to cats, and oil can be inhaled into the lungs. Only give treatments your vet prescribes, at the dose they recommend.
Preventing Constipation
Simple changes can help many cats stay regular:
- Encourage your cat to drink. Provide several water bowls, try a cat water fountain and include wet food in your cat’s diet. Read more about cat grass, which some cats like as a source of fiber.
- Feed a complete, balanced diet. Your vet may recommend a high-fiber or digestive-support food if your cat is prone to constipation.
- Keep your cat active with daily play.
- Keep your cat at a healthy weight.
- Brush your cat regularly to reduce swallowed hair. Read more: how to brush a cat.
- Keep the litter box clean, in a quiet spot, with a low entry for older or arthritic cats.
- Take your cat for regular checkups, especially as it gets older.
