-
Constipation
-
Like humans, cats can also suffer from constipation caused by things like hairballs. But cats with kidney disease often suffer from dehydration, mineral imbalances (low potassium or high calcium) or side effects from some medications, which may result in constipation.
Obstipation
-
Obstipation is the inability of your cat to pass dry accumulated feces and is a more severe form of constipation.
Megacolon
-
Following numerous periods of constipation/obstipation your cat may develop megacolon. Megacolon--or a dialated and ineffective colon--can also occur in cats who have suffered a fractured pelvis or is idiopathic in nature (no known cause).
Symptoms
-
Some healthy cats will have one or two bowel movements a day, though others may have them less often. You may notice there is a problem due to infrequent bowel movements in your cat's litter tray. Other signs include frequent visits to the litter tray, straining and vomiting, crying and frequent washing of the anus. However, cats can have a urine blockage if they are prone to crystals or kidney stones due to their renal disease. This is a medical emergency and your cat must see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Symptoms in cats that are severely constipated/obstipated may include lethargy, loss of appetite, crouching over and passing what appears to be diarrhea but is fluid leaking around the blocked feces.
Treatment
-
Your constipated cat may be prescribed enemas or glycerine which helps soften the stool ,making it easier for your cat to have bowel movements. Treatment for obstipation, however, usually requires heavy sedation so the feces can be removed by the veterinarian.
Prevent your cat's constipation by increasing fluid intake, adding water to his food and encouraging more water drinking by having different water bowls around the house. Add extra fiber to your cat's diet, such as psllium (Metamucil) or canned pumpkin; however, discuss any change or additions to your cat's diet with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may prescribe laxatives such as Laxatone, catalax, lactulose (lactulose should be avoided if your cat has high calcium levels) or Miralax. Avoid mineral oil, as it can be easily aspirated and cause pneumonia. Slippery Elm bark is a herbal remedy commonly given to cats with chronic renal failure and may help with constipation. It reduces irritation but can alter absorption of other drugs so it should not be given at the same time as other medications.
-
Feline Kidney Disease & Obstipation
Chronic renal failure is one of the most common diseases affecting elderly cats though it can occur in cats of any age. The kidneys are important organs that remove waste materials from the blood, regulate fluid balance in your cat's body, maintain mineral levels, and regulate a number of hormones vital to your cat's health and well--being. Your cat may suffer a number of symptoms because of kidney disease, including nausea, vomiting, weight loss, lethargy and constipation.