Problems with Cat Constipation? Here’s Some Advice from Your Cat Vet in Alexandria, VA

Have you noticed that your task of cleaning the litter box has been easier lately? While you may have enjoyed the relief from the odor and the scooping, your cat might not be as happy. A constantly clean litter box often indicates a constipated cat. What should you do if your cat is suffering from this issue? Your cat vet in Alexandria, VA can help.

Keep in mind that you can always contact your cat vet in Alexandria, VA to schedule a checkup for your feline friend. You can also try some at-home steps to improve your cat’s health. Use the following guide to monitor your cat’s health and provide the care he or she needs.

Warning Signs

A healthy cat typically produces stool around once per day. If you find no feces in the litter box for 48 to 72 hours, your cat could be constipated. Other signs include dry, hard feces (no litter sticks to it), decreased appetite, hiding and crying while trying to use the litter box.

Why it Happens

Constipation in cats can be caused by a variety of situations. Most causes typically boil down to dehydration. This is often the result of diabetes, hyperthyroidism or kidney disease. Older cats may suffer from constipation due to arthritis. The condition makes it painful for them to defecate, so they hold it longer, which dries out the feces and causes constipation.

What to Do

Since constipation is usually caused by dehydration, it’s important to ensure your cat gets enough water. Try placing their water bowl in a separate area from their food, and provide more than one water source. Many cats enjoy cat water fountains. Ice cubes can also be a fun treat. To further entice your cat, you can add a bit of tuna or clam juice to the water. Feeding your cat canned (wet) food is another easy option to increase his or her water intake.

Increasing the amount of exercise your cat gets can also help with this issue. Provide more play time each day for your cat. The exercise will help their digestive system as well as improve their overall health.

Several over-the-counter products are also available to treat cat constipation. Be sure to consult with your cat vet in Alexandria, VA before trying any of these remedies. Keep in mind that high-fiber diets that may work to help humans with constipation aren’t always effective with cats. There may also be an underlying cause to the constipation, so ask your vet for their input if you suspect your cat is constipated.

Who to Call

If you suspect your cat is struggling with constipation, don’t hesitate to contact your cat vet in Alexandria, VA. The staff at Kingstowne Cat Clinic offer in-depth expertise and extensive experience in cat care. We are dedicated to providing quality care for your four-legged friends. We offer a full range of treatment, including wellness exams, vaccinations, acupuncture, surgery, dentistry, grooming and more. Reach out to our team today for expert insight into your cat’s health and wellness.

Categorised in: Cat Veterinarian

This post was written by Writer