Constipation and Straining to Defecate in Cats
Key takeaways
Constipation is straining to defecate when the colon is full, with passage of hard, dry feces. Straining to defecate (tenesmus) occurs when the colon is empty and irritated, or when there is an obstruction preventing the passage of normal feces.
- Constipation is characterized by the passage of small, dry feces; tenesmus results in either no fecal production or passage of normal feces -Constipation is common in cats and often becomes more frequent with age
- May present with lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and blood in the stools
- Most commonly associated with diseases of senior cats that lead to dehydration, but occurs with a variety of other conditions
- Any initial episode of straining to defecate must be treated as an emergency
- Symptomatic therapy includes laxatives, enemas, and fluid therapy
- Treatment of the underlying condition is critical for preventing recurrence
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A closer look: Constipation and Straining to Defecate in Cats
Constipation is common, particularly in older cats. It indicates an underlying illness that interferes with the normal passage of stool, often as a result of dehydration. Treatment allows for the stool to pass or be removed, but recurrence is expected unless the underlying condition is corrected. In some cases, constipation can develop into chronic difficulty defecating. Veterinarian investigation is warranted immediately, especially if other symptoms appear, like weight loss, blood in the stools, loss of appetite, or lethargy.
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Possible causes
Constipation can also be an indicator of a condition that affects the animal’s mobility.
Constipation may occur as a side effect of some medications.
Sometimes constipation is caused by something as simple as matted or dirty fur blocking the anus. It can also occur following ingestion of a large amount of indigestible material, leading to GI foreign body obstruction.
Some cats become constipated in response to major stressors like being boarded or hospitalized.
Risk factors
Depending on the duration of the symptom, the severity may vary. In mild cases, it might be a symptom of dietary issues or dehydration. Drinking more water or consuming high-fiber foods or medications (e.g. laxatives) may lead to a quick recovery.
If the constipation is severe or chronic it is necessary to consult a veterinarian as it may develop into more serious conditions such as megacolon or obstipation.
Testing and diagnosis
There are a variety of tests to determine what is causing constipation as well as the underlying condition leading to it, including:
- Physical examination, including a rectal exam
- X-ray or ultrasound
- Blood work
Once the root cause is determined, removal of the fecal mass, if present, is often the next step, either via enemas or laxatives. In case of dehydration, the next step is intravenous fluid therapy.
To relieve constipation laxatives and stool softeners may be prescribed. Nutritional therapy is also important. Failing to address the primary source of constipation will likely lead to recurrence, which often develops into more serious complications over time. In severe cases (e.g. megacolon) it may be necessary to surgically remove the affected portion of the colon.
Similar symptoms
Constipation is often confused with straining to urinate.
