Constipation, Obstipation (Constipation) in cats

  • Occurrence: common
  • Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis
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Constipation, also known as obstipation, is a condition in which a cat has difficulty emptying its bowels, leading to infrequent or painful bowel movements.

The most important facts at a glance

Constipation in cats is an abnormal delay or difficulty in defecating, which can be caused by various factors such as dehydration, a low-fiber diet, or lack of exercise. Dehydration causes water to be recovered from the colon, which makes the stool hard and dry. A low-fiber diet impairs bowel movement, and stress can also play a role. Symptoms include no or reduced bowel movements, Abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. Diagnosis is made by history, physical examination, and possibly additional tests such as X-rays. Treatment varies depending on the cause and severity and may include dietary adjustments, laxatives, or, in severe cases, surgery. A balanced diet with fiber, adequate water intake, and exercise can help prevent it. Research focuses on the role of dehydration, fiber, and gut microbiota, as well as genetic and psychological factors. Probiotics and stress management are being investigated as possible solutions to reduce the risk of constipation and promote digestive health.

Causes

Basically, constipation refers to an abnormal delay or persistent difficulty in defecating. The cat’s digestive tract is designed to efficiently process food and excrete waste products. If this process is disrupted, constipation can occur.

The causes of constipation in cats are varied. A common cause is dehydration, which causes the body to try to recover water from the colon. This can make the stool hard and dry, making passage difficult. Inadequate water intake is especially common in cats that receive only dry food.

Another common factor is diet. A low-fiber diet can impair intestinal motility. Fiber helps bind the stool and facilitates transport through the digestive tract.

Other causes may include anatomical abnormalities such as pelvic constrictions, damage or blockages in the intestine, neurological disorders, medications that slow down the intestine, and lack of exercise. Stress can also play a role in some cats, especially if they are sensitive to changes in their environment.

In some cases, an underlying disease such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or hypothyroidism may be the cause. These conditions can disrupt the water and electrolyte balance in the body, which in turn can affect intestinal function.

Symptoms

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of constipation in cats are often easily recognizable. One of the most common signs is the repeated, unsuccessful effort of the cat to defecate. The cat may show Pain during bowel movements, often associated with loud meowing or wailing.

Another symptom is the reduction in the amount of feces that the cat produces. The feces are often hard and dry, sometimes in the form of small pellets. Occasionally, traces of blood may also be visible in the feces, indicating irritation of the intestinal wall.

Constipated cats often show a reduced interest in food and may appear lethargic or depressed. They may also show signs of Abdominal pain, such as tense abdominal muscles or a pronounced withdrawal when touching the abdominal area.

In severe cases, Vomiting, dehydration, or even a complete Intestinal obstruction can occur, which is a medical emergency.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of constipation in cats usually begins with a thorough history and physical examination by the veterinarian. The veterinarian will ask about the cat’s symptoms, feeding and drinking habits, and any changes in behavior or environment.

A thorough clinical examination can help detect signs of dehydration, Abdominal pain, or an enlarged colon region. In some cases, a rectal examination may be performed to determine if there is hard stool in the rectum.

Additional diagnostic tests may include blood tests, urinalysis, or X-rays to determine the underlying cause of the constipation. X-rays can help identify intestinal blockages or anatomical abnormalities.

Ultrasound examinations or endoscopies can also be used to obtain more detailed information about the condition of the intestine. These procedures are particularly useful if a serious illness or a foreign body in the intestine is suspected.

Therapy

Treatment for constipation in cats depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In mild cases, adjusting the diet or increasing water intake may be sufficient to resolve the problem.

A high-fiber diet can help make the stool softer and bulkier, which facilitates passage. Supplements such as pumpkin or special fiber supplements can be helpful in promoting bowel movement.

In more severe cases, the veterinarian may prescribe laxatives or enemas to stimulate bowel movement. However, these should only be used under veterinary supervision, as improper use can do more harm than good.

For underlying conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes, it is important to treat these conditions accordingly to relieve constipation. In some cases, fluid therapy may be necessary to stabilize the cat’s fluid balance and support intestinal function.

In very severe cases, where there is a mechanical blockage or a serious anatomical abnormality, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for cats with constipation depends heavily on the underlying cause and timely treatment. In most cases, the prognosis is good, especially if the constipation is recognized and treated early.

In cats where constipation is caused by treatable factors such as dietary problems or dehydration, rapid improvement can be achieved through targeted measures. A long-term adjustment of diet and drinking habits can help prevent future episodes.

However, if the constipation is caused by a serious underlying disease, the treatment may be more complex and the prognosis may vary depending on the condition. Chronic or recurrent constipation can lead to enlargement of the colon, known as megacolon, which makes treatment more difficult and can impair the cat’s quality of life.

Prevention

To prevent constipation in cats, it is crucial to pay attention to a balanced diet. A diet that is rich in fiber can help promote intestinal activity. Special fibers in the food support the digestive process and ensure healthy bowel movement. It is advisable to regularly offer high-quality wet food, as it contains more moisture than dry food and thus increases fluid intake.

Adequate water intake is another important factor. Make sure your cat always has access to fresh water, and consider using a drinking fountain to encourage drinking. Activity and exercise are also crucial as they stimulate intestinal activity. Play with your cat regularly and encourage them to move.

In addition, regular grooming of the coat can help reduce the absorption of hair during cleaning, which in turn minimizes the formation of hairballs in the digestive tract. These hairballs can lead to constipation. In some cases, the use of special dietary supplements can be helpful, but this should always be done in consultation with a veterinarian. Regular veterinary check-ups are also important to identify and address potential problems early on.

Outlook on current research

Research on constipation in cats has made progress in recent years as veterinarians and scientists increasingly recognize the importance of this often underestimated disease. One of the main causes of constipation in cats is dehydration, which is often associated with inadequate water intake. Studies suggest that cats that eat predominantly dry food are at higher risk because this food contains less moisture compared to wet food. Researchers are currently investigating new formulations of dry food that are designed to increase the water content in order to reduce the risk of constipation.

In addition, the role of fiber is also being intensively researched. There are different types of fiber that are used in cat diets, and scientists are working to determine which types are most effective in supporting intestinal health. A balanced amount of soluble and insoluble fiber could promote bowel movement and thus reduce the risk of constipation.

Another exciting area of research is the microbiota of the intestine in cats. Scientists are investigating how the composition and diversity of intestinal microbes affect digestion and bowel movements. There is evidence that an imbalance in the intestinal flora can lead to digestive problems, including constipation. Probiotics, which contain beneficial bacteria, are being investigated as a possible solution to promote the balance of the intestinal flora and improve digestive health.

The genetic factors that contribute to constipation are also an active area of research. Some cat breeds appear to be more prone to constipation, suggesting genetic predispositions. By studying the genetic differences, scientists may be able to develop targeted treatments or prevention strategies that are tailored to the individual needs of cats.

Finally, the role of behavior and mental health in constipation in cats is also being investigated. Stress and anxiety can affect digestive processes and lead to constipation. Researchers are working to understand the mechanisms by which stress affects the digestive tract and are developing stress reduction strategies that may help prevent constipation in cats.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

  1. What are the most common symptoms of constipation in cats? The most common symptoms include rare or very hard bowel movements, straining during bowel movements, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Some cats may also show Vomiting. If your cat shows any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.

  2. What are the main causes of constipation in cats? The main causes can be dehydration, a low-fiber diet, Overweight, lack of exercise, hairballs, certain medications, and conditions such as megacolon or neurological problems. Stress can also play a role.

  3. How can I treat my cat’s constipation at home? If the constipation is mild, you can try to increase your cat’s water intake by giving them wet food or enriching the dry food with water. Adding high-fiber food or a special diet food can also be helpful. However, always consult a veterinarian before changing your cat’s diet.

  4. When should I take my cat to the vet? You should see a veterinarian if your cat has not had a bowel movement for more than two days, is showing severe Pain or discomfort, or if Vomiting or loss of appetite also occur. A quick diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid complications.

  5. Can hairballs cause constipation in cats? Yes, hairballs can cause the stool to harden in the intestine and make passage difficult. Regular brushing and special hairball diets can help reduce the formation of hairballs.

  6. What role does nutrition play in the prevention of constipation? A balanced diet with sufficient water and fiber content is crucial to support the health of the digestive system. Wet food can help increase fluid intake, while high-fiber food can promote bowel movement.

  7. Are there medications that can help my cat? Yes, there are various medications and supplements that can be used to relieve constipation, including laxatives, stool softeners, and probiotics. However, these should only be used after consulting a veterinarian.

  8. Can exercise help improve my cat’s digestion? Yes, regular exercise can stimulate bowel movement and thus help prevent constipation. Play with your cat regularly and encourage them to move.

  9. How can stress affect my cat’s digestion? Stress can impair the normal function of the digestive tract and lead to problems such as constipation. Stress-reducing measures such as a quiet environment, regular routines, and soothing pheromone products can help improve your cat’s well-being.

  10. What are the possible complications of untreated constipation? Untreated constipation can lead to serious complications such as megacolon, a dangerous enlargement of the colon. This can lead to chronic digestive problems and, in severe cases, to an Intestinal obstruction that may require surgical intervention.

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An interesting overview of gastrointestinal problems in cats, supplemented by information on the intestinal microbiome and the importance of probiotics, can be found here: https://petsvetcheck.de/fachbeitrag/magen-darm-probleme-bei-katzen/