Signs of Severe Feline Constipation

Constipation, in animals as in humans, usually points to a dietary imbalance and/or an underlying health problem. Constipation occurs more frequently among elderly indoors cats but the health problems that cause constipation do not always correlate to age or a sedentary lifestyle. As a responsible pet owner, you will want to pay close attention to your feline companion to notice the behavioral cues of constipation. A chronically blocked-up cat requires immediate veterinary attention.

  1. Straining

    • If your cat seems to crouch or strain when in the litter box, and produces no stool, or only hard, dry pellets or bloody stool, this signals blockage in the colon.

    Distress

    • If your cat cries during defecation, this probably means he experiences pain attempting to eliminate feces.

    Vomiting

    • If your cat vomits more than the occasional hairball, this may mean food cannot pass completely through the colon because of a blockage.

    Behavioral Changes

    • Lethargy and loss of interest in food always indicate some sort of imbalance in a cat's health. Shifts in grooming behavior, including constant licking of the anal region and/or less frequent self-bathing are also signs of distress. Look at the cat's stool when cleaning the litter box to determine whether constipation or another problem has caused these changes.