Go to a clinic immediately if
- A cat strains without urine, the abdomen is very painful or swollen, vomiting repeats or weakness is profound
Possible signs
- Small dry stools, unproductive straining, painful defecation, poor appetite or vomiting
- The pet passes very hard stool infrequently, remains in the defecating posture or avoids the toilet area
Contact a veterinarian today if
- Seek same-day care if no stool has passed for several days, straining is painful or appetite has fallen
What it is
With constipation, feces remain in the colon and dry out; in severe obstipation the animal cannot pass them unaided. Causes include dehydration, pain, pelvic narrowing, neurologic or colonic disease.
What to expect at the veterinarian
The veterinarian will assess the abdomen, rectum, hydration and medicines; radiographs and blood tests may be needed. Severe cases require fluids, enemas or removal under anaesthesia.
Sources
- Reference book. Feline Constipation and Megacolon