Slippery Elm & Cat Constipation

Diet, obesity, hairballs, a sedentary lifestyle, dehydration and stress can all cause constipation in cats. Symptoms include hard, dry stool; straining in the litter box; defecating outside the box and less-frequent or no bowel movements. Treatments range from prescription medications to home remedies, such as slippery elm bark.

  1. Herbal Remedy

    • An herbal remedy, slippery elm is prepared from the inner bark of the slippery elm tree (Ulmus fulva).

    Healing Properties

    • The mucilage in slippery elm bark becomes a slick gel when mixed with water and coats, soothes and lubricates the mucus membranes of a constipated cat's digestive tract. Because it's high in fiber, it also helps normalize intestinal action.

    Preparation

    • Slippery elm bark is available from health food stores in bulk as a powder or in capsules. Veterinarian Jean Hofve suggests mixing 1/4 tsp of the powder for every 10 pounds of body weight with enough water to make a thick gruel.

    Administration

    • Slippery elm bark can be given to cats with an oral syringe or mixed into wet food.

    Cautions

    • Slippery elm is safe to use for constipation in cats. However, because it coats the digestive tract, it may slow down the absorption of other medications.