What can I give my cat for constipation over the counter

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

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What Can I Give My Cat For Constipation?

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If youre wondering what you can give your cat to relieve constipation, this is a great source. Like many pet owners, I can sometimes be a bit of a hypochondriac over my cats. Even the smallest sign that there may be something wrong sends me into overdrive to find out all of the information available on the topic.

This recently happened when I noticed that the litter box seemed unusually empty for two days in a row. I immediately started researching feline constipation to see if there was anything I could do to help my furry friend out!

It turns out that Im not the only one who has been confronted with this somewhat embarrassing situation. Theres no need for you to feel embarrassed about the topic or start opening up incognito windows in your web browser because Ive got all the important information compiled here.

So here it is: What can I give my cat for constipation? In addition to promoting increased hydration, additional fiber intake, and regular exercise, pet owners can choose from a number of natural laxatives, such as pumpkin, and over-the-counter remedies for cat constipation. In severe cases, veterinarians may perform an enema or surgery if constipation poses an immediate threat to the cats health.

There is a wide range of options available for pet owners looking to help their kitty go. This problem is actually quite common, as there are a number of different things that can lead to constipation in felines. While constipation isnt typically life-threatening, it can lead to some serious health issues if left untreated, so its best to get going and provide the extra assistance your cat may need!

What Can I Give My Cat For Constipation?

The first thought that entered my head when I noticed that empty litter box was, What can I do to help? Unlike other health issues, constipation is one of those things that you can actually help relieve at home in many cases.

The first consideration is actually much simpler than you may think!

Promoting proper hydration is key in helping resolve feline constipation. Having enough water in the body can help soften the stool resting in the digestive tract, which can help get things moving right along.

If your cat is a bit fickle about staying hydrated, try to entice her to drink more by keeping water fresh and providing different sources of water around the house so she can pick her preference.

You may even consider letting the tap trickle in the bathtub or introducing a cat water fountain to get her more interested in drinking water.

Another way to relieve cat constipation at home is to introduce additional fiber into her diet.

Fiber is necessary for a properly functioning digestive tract, and adding more fiber can help get things moving when they seem stuck.

One natural approach to increasing your cats fiber intake is by stirring in a bit of pumpkin or olive oil into your cats food. Just a spoonful of either ingredient mixed into her normal food may be enough to cure her case of constipation.

In addition, there are many over-the-counter solutions for a case of cat constipation, too.

Some pet owners have found that formulas like Metamucil and Miralax have helped cats kick constipation.

Because these solutions were intended for human consumption, however, you should always consult your particular veterinarian to get an idea if these would be applicable for your pet.

There are plenty of over-the-counter formulas specifically designed for pets, too. Browse the aisles of your local pet store, and youll find a plethora of digestive formulas and supplements that can be mixed in with cat food to promote healthy digestion.

Finally, there is one other thing you can do as a pet owner to combat constipation for the long-term, and that is to promote adequate exercise for your feline. Engaging in regular movement and adopting a healthy routine of play can help keep abdominal muscles in shape and digestive systems functioning.

Keep an eye on your cat to ensure she is getting enough exercise in the form of daily play and movement.

What Can the Vet Do for Cat Constipation?

If home remedies arent quite cutting it, a visit to your veterinarian may be in order. In addition to providing an actual diagnosis, vets have additional methods for relieving cat constipation within the clinical setting.

One thing the vet is likely to do is to make sure that the diagnosis is correct.

Other underlying health concerns, like a urinary tract infection, may present with similar symptoms. Its important that the vet confirms that constipation is, in fact, the problem being faced.

There are a number of blood tests that the vet can perform to rule out other medical diseases.

Abdominal palpation exams can also help determine the extent of constipation. In addition, radiography and ultrasound exams may be performed to further assess the extent of the blockage in the colon.

Once constipation has been clearly identified as the problem, there are multiple options available to veterinarians. First, a vet is likely to introduce intravenous fluid therapy, which essentially provides additional hydration for the feline.

The vet may also recommend a dietary change for the cat. Depending on the cats medical history and other health risks, there may be a special formula of cat food that can help balance out specific digestion problems.

Another option that veterinarians have available to them is to perform a warm-water enema. The basic premise of this approach is to flush the colon manually, releasing stuck feces or any other items causing a blockage in the colon.

Most cases of cat constipation will be resolved by any of these mentioned approaches. In severe cases, however, there is another, more advanced tactic that can help.

Extreme cases may warrant the cat to undergo a procedure under anesthesia in which the vet removes hardened feces from the colon.

What Are The Signs of Cat Constipation?

So heres the question that all cat owners should know just what exactly are the signs that your cat may be constipated?

Being aware of the signs of feline constipation mostly lies in close observation of your cat.

First of all, you may observe that your cat hasnt defecated in over 48 hours.

While the average adult cat has a bowel movement once a day, it is not uncommon for the occasional delay that extends into a second day.

However, if your cat hasnt left a present in the litter box for over 48 hours, you should be on heightened alert that something may be wrong.

Shy cats may not like this next point, but it is important in identifying the issue.

Responsible pet owners should observe when their cat is doing its business to witness whether or not the cat is experiencing any pain. This could appear as straining while defecating or showing multiple attempts that seem uncomfortable.

Constipation may also be suspected if the feces look unhealthy. If your cats feces are bloody or extremely dry, then she may be suffering from constipation.

Finally, other signs that your cat may be constipated can be found in their behavior.

If you witness behavioral changes that include:

crying
seeming discomfort
lack of movement

Then constipation may be to blame.

What Causes Constipation in Cats?

Lets face it dealing with constipation can be a nightmare! So whats exactly to blame? If youre aware of the things that can cause constipation, theres a good chance you can help promote healthy routines for your cat to reduce her risk of dealing with a blocked bowel disaster.

One of the most common causes of constipation is dehydration. Water is absolutely vital to maintaining healthy, properly functioning digestion.

If your cat is lazy about drinking water, then it may result in uncomfortable constipation.

Diet can also play a big role in a cats digestive system and overall health. While water is integral, fiber is important, too. If your cats diet doesnt have enough fiber, shes at an increased risk of experiencing constipation.

Another cause of constipation is the presence of hairballs in the colon. This can happen sometimes if the cat grooms herself too much. While regular grooming is necessary to demonstrate good hygiene, over-grooming can result in a dry wad of hair that bogs down digestion.

Other blockages can also occur from swallowing dry objects:

like string
paper scraps
toilet paper

These objects can get caught in the colon, blocking feces from exiting properly. Bones can do this, too, so if your cat has a habit of hunting small birds or rabbits when shes outside, be on the lookout for signs that things arent processing adequately.

Additional problems with the colon can also get a cat blocked up. Tumors, weak abdominal muscles surrounding the colon, and the overgrowth of the colon can all contribute to cat constipation. These issues are best identified by a qualified veterinarian.

Finally, there are other health concerns that may impact digestion. Issues that present a metabolic abnormality, including hypothyroidism, can result in digestion problems like constipation.

Is Cat Constipation Serious?

While some cases of cat constipation resolve on their own, others may require a bit of assistance, like fiber or pumpkin, to stimulate a bowel movement. The good news is that the majority of cases do not result in serious health complications.

However, if constipation is ignored or left untreated for an extended period of time, it is possible for even a mild case of constipation to develop into something more serious. When waste builds up in the colon and is not evacuated, it stretches the intestines out. This, in turn, has the potential for bacteria to translocate into the bloodstream, which can cause serious illness.

Megacolon, a condition in which weakened muscles inhibit the cat from effectively defecating, can also develop when constipation goes on too long. While some cats are born with megacolon, others develop it as a response to prolonged constipation. This can develop into a chronic health issue.

Because of these rare cases, its best to never ignore a case of constipation in your cat. If you suspect constipation, consult your veterinarian if the issue is not resolved within 72 hours.

6 Safe Laxatives for Cats

Constipation can become a serious and painful condition for any animal, so it's important to be aware of the best cat laxatives you can use to help your pet. The following laxatives are approved for felines, but you should consult your vet before starting your cat on one and contact them right away if your cat appears to be in distress. If your cat is dealing with recurring digestive symptoms, get your hands on LovetoKnow's vet-written eBook called "Happy Tummy Cat" for a roadmap to understanding and recovery.

Lubricant Laxatives for Cats

Lubricant laxatives are used to lubricate the digestive tract, making it easier for the cat to pass a stool. This type of laxative is commonly used when hairballs lead to constipation.

Sentry HC Petromalt

Sentry HC Petromalt uses a combination of mineral oil, petrolatum, glycerin, and other ingredients to break up hairballs and lubricate the digestive tract. This product also contains corn syrup, so it may not be appropriate for cats that are allergic to corn or have diabetes.

Lax'aire

Lax'aire contains petrolatum to lubricate the intestinal tract and cod liver oil to act as a laxative. Additional ingredients include soybean oil and peptonized iron. Cats tend to like the taste of the cod liver oil, so it's easy to administer.

Laxatone

Laxatone is an over-the-counter product that's especially useful for treating constipation caused by ingesting fur. The tuna, catnip, and maple-flavored varieties of this laxative contain a combination of white petroleum USP, light mineral oil, and soybean oil, among other ingredients, to relieve constipation.

Cat owners who prefer to avoid giving their cats petroleum products may prefer Laxatone Natural. This formula contains soybean, vegetable, cod liver, and flaxseed oils, as well as beeswax to lubricate and ease constipation.

Bulk-Forming Laxatives for Cats

Bulk-forming laxatives absorb water and help soften dry, hard feces, so they pass with ease. The extra bulk also helps the cat pass stools more often, which keeps them regular and lowers the chance of becoming constipated.

Lactulose

Lactulose is a prescription liquid laxative that softens stools. It's often used to treat cats that suffer from megacolon, and it can lessen complications from certain types of liver disease.

Metamucil for Cats

According to PetMD, it's safe to use Metamucil for cats and is especially useful for cats that suffer from frequent constipation. The site recommends adding 1 to 2 teaspoons per day to wet cat food, and most cats can be kept on this regimen indefinitely without causing a problem. However, you must make sure your cat also has plenty of fresh water available when taking this laxative. Metamucil is readily available at any pharmacy department.

Vetasyl

Vetasyl is an over-the-counter constipation remedy that contains a combination of psyllium seed husks and barley malt extract powder. It's a very natural product that doesn't contain any additional chemicals or preservatives. Like Metamucil, Vetasyl is sprinkled over wet cat food, and your cat should have a constant supply of fresh water in order for the laxative to work properly.

Check the Ingredients and Consult Your Vet

As with anything else you'd feed your cat, read the ingredients label to make sure the laxative you choose doesn't contain anything that could be toxic to cats or that you know your cat is allergic to. Constipation can be uncomfortable at its mildest and life threatening at its worst, so call your vet to discuss using a laxative. Chronic or persistent constipation can also be a sign of a more serious problem, so it's important to get their expert opinion on whether this is the right treatment for your pet.