Docusate for Cats

Docusate is a stool softener. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, a division of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, stool softeners are a medical treatment for constipation. Docusate creates less firm bowel movements and makes them easier to pass. The medicine is a surface-active agent, meaning it can change the physical or chemical nature of a surface. Although the FDA does not approve the drug for use in animals, veterinarians can legally prescribe it.

  1. Feline Constipation

    • An occasional episode of feline constipation is no cause for alarm. Causes for constipation in cats include hairballs; colon cancer; ingested foreign objects, such as pebbles or small sticks; and pelvic or anal injuries that narrow the anal canal through which the stool must pass.

      In addition, cats sometimes experience constipation as a result of dirty litter boxes; constipation occurs because they avoid the box and hold their stool too long. In some cases, the cause of the condition cannot be isolated.

    Treating Feline Constipation

    • The FDA approved Docusate for use in humans only; there are no veterinary formulations of the drug. If your cat needs treatment for constipation, do not administer Docusate unless your veterinarian authorized you to do so.

      In general, veterinarians prescribe Docusate to animals that chronically experience constipation. If your cat's constipation is an isolated occurrence, your vet may prefer an alternative method of treatment, such as an enema. They also may administer other medications approved for the treatment of feline constipation, such as axatone, lactulose, cisapride or bisacodyl.

    Docusate for Cats

    • When prescribed and guided by a veterinarian, Docusate is usually a safe and effective way of treating animal constipation. The drug works by allowing water and fat to pass through the intestinal tract to penetrate and soften the stool.

      However, the medicine can cause side effects in certain animals, such as those with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug, and may interact with other medications used to treat pre-existing conditions. If used improperly, your cat may experience further discomfort from cramping, diarrhea and dehydration. Improper use also can damage the intestinal lining.

    Types

    • The human formulation of Docusate is available over the counter under the following names: Colace, Surfak, Kasof, Dialose, as well as various generic preparations. The drug is available as a 5 mg/ml syrup or in tablet form of various doses. Various concentrations of liquid docusate is also available.

      Pet Place, an online community of veterinary information, suggests 50 mg of Docusate per day is sufficient to treat feline constipation. Do not give your cat Docusate without first consulting your veterinarian.

    Considerations

    • If your cat continues to show symptoms of constipation after taking Docusate, your vet may need to extract the fecal matter manually. Manual extractions often require a sedative or anesthesia. Your cat also may need intravenous fluids to correct dehydration caused by the reduced intake of food and water.

      If the constipation is severe or chronic, your vet may administer other medications to stimulate the colon to contract. Treatment of megacolon, a related condition resulting in the inability to defecate, may require surgery.