Feline Constipation -- Issues and Warnings

Feline constipation is rather common among house cats. Too much fur in the gut, commonly referred to as hairballs, is the number one cause of this condition. Litter box aversion, kidney disease, and other physical and psychological causes may be a factor.

Too much hair in the gut, or a recent change in diet can cause a temporary constipation issue. For the average cat, a little bout of constipation every now and then is normal.

At higher risk are elderly cats, and those with other health problems, including pre-existing bowel or kidney problems. In any case, you'll want to be alert to a few warnings and issues concerning this condition.

Issues and warnings concerning feline constipation:

1. Never give human remedies to your cat -- Products for humans may be harmful or fatal to cats. You should never give a remedy designed for people to your cat unless it's recommended by a trained cat health professional. Tylenol, for example, is toxic to cats and should never be administered. If you're considering using a preparation made for people for constipation, talk to your veterinarian first.

2. Home preparations -- Check with your veterinarian before attempting a home remedy. I've seen some people recommending mineral oil as a home remedy, but this is not advisable. Mineral oil is easily inhaled into the respiratory tract, and never breaks down in body. This may cause long term problems for your cat.

3. Administering enemas -- Enemas can be administered, but you should probably not attempt this yourself. The experience probably will not be very pleasant for either you or your cat, and you could end up being scratched or bitten. If you attempt this yourself, get advice and instruction from your veterinarian first.

4. Long term effects of chronic feline constipation -- If your cat suffers from frequently recurring or long term chronic constipation, she may be on her way to developing megacolon. In a cat with megacolon, the colon swells and the stool builds up to the point that it can't pass. Also, there may be some other more serious underlying medical issue that needs to be addressed. You should have a conversation with your veterinarian about these underlying causes.

If your cat is constipated for an extended period, you'll want to work with your veterinarian to resolve the problem.

Article Source: ArticlesMaker.com

About the Author: Kurt Schmitt, an avid cat lover writes about litter box problems, constipation in cats and other cat health issues. 

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