No Defecation in cats
“No defecation” in cats refers to a cat’s inability or lack of regular bowel movements. This symptom can indicate various health problems, ranging from mild constipation to severe gastrointestinal disorders.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
The normal digestive process in cats begins with the ingestion of food, which is digested in the stomach and small intestine. The nutrients are absorbed, while the indigestible components pass into the large intestine, where water is extracted to form solid feces. This is eventually excreted through the anus. A healthy bowel movement in cats should occur at least once a day.
If a cat does not defecate, it may indicate constipation, which is often caused by inadequate water intake, a low-fiber diet, or lack of exercise. Constipation can also be caused by hairballs, especially in long-haired cats, as they ingest hair while grooming, which can accumulate in the digestive tract.
Other possible causes include intestinal obstruction, caused by foreign bodies, tumors, or strangulated hernias. Neurological problems that affect bowel movements, as well as pain or stress, can also lead to altered defecation. Chronic diseases such as kidney disease, diabetes, or hypothyroidism can also affect the digestive system and lead to constipation.
In addition, medications administered to the cat may have side effects that affect defecation. These include some pain relievers, diuretics, and antidepressants.
Typical accompanying symptoms
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Loss of appetite: Cats that do not defecate often also show a decreased appetite because the gastrointestinal tract cannot empty properly.
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Vomiting: In the case of a complete intestinal obstruction or severe constipation, vomiting may occur as the body tries to get rid of the built-up contents.
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Lethargy: A lack of energy and activity can be a sign that the cat is feeling unwell.
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Abdominal pain: The cat may show signs of abdominal pain, such as excessive meowing, a defensive posture, or avoiding being touched in the abdominal area.
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Weight loss: In chronic problems, the cat may experience weight loss because it is eating less food or not digesting it properly.
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Dehydration: A lack of water intake or loss of fluids through vomiting can lead to dehydration, which further exacerbates the problem of constipation.
When to visit the vet?
A veterinarian should be consulted if the cat has not defecated for more than 48 hours, especially if additional symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy occur. This may indicate a serious problem that requires medical treatment.
If the cat shows signs of severe pain, e.g. if it becomes aggressive when lifted or touched on the abdomen, immediate veterinary help is necessary. This could indicate an intestinal obstruction or other serious medical problem.
Also, if the cat regularly has problems with defecation, a veterinarian should be consulted to rule out or treat an underlying chronic disease.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
As a pet owner, you should closely observe your cat’s behavior and document any changes in eating, drinking, and elimination habits. Also, note changes in the cat’s weight or energy level. This information can help the veterinarian with the diagnosis.
During the veterinary visit, the doctor will first perform a thorough clinical examination. He will palpate the cat’s abdomen to determine if there are signs of pain, constipation, or a tumor. An X-ray or ultrasound may be ordered to examine the digestive tract for abnormalities such as foreign bodies or tumors.
Blood tests can help rule out systemic diseases such as kidney problems, diabetes, or thyroid disease. In some cases, a stool sample may also be examined to identify parasites or other abnormalities.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
As a first measure, the pet owner should make sure that the cat consumes enough water. Adequate hydration is crucial to keep the digestive tract moist and prevent constipation. It can be helpful to offer the cat wet food or moisten the dry food with water.
To promote digestion, a change to a higher-fiber diet can be considered. There are special foods for cats that are designed to support intestinal health and reduce the formation of hairballs.
Exercise plays an important role in promoting bowel activity. Make sure your cat has enough opportunities to move and be active. Play with her regularly and provide incentives for exercise, e.g. through toys or climbing trees.
If the cat frequently has hairballs, the regular use of special malt pastes or feed supplements can help reduce the formation of hairballs and facilitate defecation.
In the case of recurring or severe symptoms, it is essential that veterinary treatment is carried out. The veterinarian may prescribe laxatives or other medications to promote defecation, or perform necessary medical interventions to treat the underlying problem.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.