Holistic Treatment for Feline Megacolon

Feline megacolon is a condition in which a cat's large intestine becomes dramatically enlarged and clogged with feces. Although most common in domestic short-haired males over 6 years old, megacolon can affect any cat, and in most cases the cause is unknown. Many different treatments are effective, but some vets and cat owners prefer to take a holistic approach.

  1. Diet

    • The primary symptom of feline megacolon is severe constipation, so it is helpful to ensure that the cat is getting enough fiber. Several prescription cat foods are available with increased fiber content, but even the cat's normal diet can suffice if fiber is added. A tablespoon of psyllium fiber or canned pumpkin mixed with regular dry food can sometimes help get things moving before the colon expands. Free access to fresh, clean water is also important because dehydration can cause constipation.

    Enemas

    • Enemas are the most effective treatment for cats with impacted stool. The vet uses a syringe attached to a red rubber catheter to inject a soapy water solution or a medicated gel into the cat's colon, which usually stimulates a bowel movement. Although the procedure is a simple one, it should never be performed at home unless instructed by a veterinarian. An inexperienced hand could easily perforate the bowel with the tip of the catheter, causing major systemic infection.

    Grooming

    • Something as simple as frequent grooming can help a cat with megacolon. Because cats constantly groom themselves, any dead hair left on their coat winds up in their belly. If the amount of hair is large enough, it can tangle and clump, causing an obstruction in the bowels. Even regular bowels can be difficult for the cat to pass if large amounts of hair are present, and if a cat has megacolon, care should be taken to ensure his bowels operate as smoothly as possible.

    Laxatives

    • Laxatives are occasionally used to help the constipated cat pass stool before it becomes impacted. Laxatone is a popular gel that tastes like a treat and helps lubricate the bowels to allow stool to pass more easily. This is most effective against hair-bound stools. Herbal laxatives, including slippery elm bark powder, avena sativa and aloe ferox, can also be effective, although it is best to check with the vet for correct dosing. Even when laxatives are given in the correct dose, they can not only relieve constipation but also cause diarrhea.

    Prognosis

    • Most cats with feline megacolon will respond well to treatment. Once the impacted stool is eliminated, the underlying cause of constipation must be addressed to prevent relapse. Some cats will suffer from constipation off and on for the rest of their lives and should be kept on an increased-fiber diet. That, combined with proper grooming and periodic checkups, should ensure that megacolon is not allowed to develop again.