Constipated Cat

Helping a Constipated Cat

I have a cat that is eleven years of age. His bowels will not move daily, and when they finally do it is hard stool. His rectum protrudes out and I know he must be suffering.

I give him three to five cc's of mineral oil daily. Our vet has already recommended a laxative, but it gives him the runs and then he's back to being constipated.

What do you recommend?

~~ Shirl

Expert Reply

Hi Shirl,

Constipation is fairly common in senior cats, but your cat's problem does seem to be chronic.

Has your vet x-rayed him to check for colon enlargement? An enlarged colon doesn't function as efficiently as it should, and feces is retained rather than expelled on a regular basis. Typically, you would see other symptoms with this condition, such as a vomiting and lethargy, but I think it's worth a check anyway.

As for the laxative, I'm leery it may be contributing to your cat's protruding rectum problem. I don't know what you vet has prescribed, but certain types of laxatives cause the intestines to contract and force the feces out; this puts additional pressure on the anus. Again, I would follow up with your vet to determine if you can discontinue using it.

In the meantime, here are a few suggestions you can try that shouldn't do any harm:

• Soak dry cat food in water until it's soft to help increase the fluid content in his stools.
• Offer a little cow's milk once a day. This acts as a natural laxative and may help his situation. Your cat will probably consider it a treat.

I also suggest you discontinue administering mineral oil, and instead add either a few drops of fresh fish oil or wheat germ oil to your pet's food three times a week. This will provide nutritional benefits as well as lubrication.

I truly hope your cat gets back to normal soon.

Best wishes~~ Kelly

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