What Causes Constipation in Cats

1 Causes of Cat Constipation

I. Megacolon

Feline colon motility disorder, obstruction, or poor pelvic-fracture healing can cause megacolon, with main signs of lethargy, poor appetite, and occasional vomiting. Early on there are no clear symptoms; it worsens unknowingly until constipation repeats and the owner realizes. Most affected cats are listless, with unkempt coat from not grooming; the rectum is usually empty, and abdominal palpation finds large stool masses in the colon. Drugs only briefly ease symptoms—e.g. oral motility agents or rectal medication. The best treatment is surgery to remove the diseased colon segment, shortening stool transit and improving constipation.

II. Anal Gland Inflammation

The anal glands sit below the anus, one pear-shaped sac on each side, opening at the anus; when pressed they release brown liquid or thick secretion with a very foul smell. With inflamed glands the cat drags its anus forward or rubs the ground, and licks the anus and tail; close observation shows very difficult defecation. Treat with chlorhexidine rinse of the broken wound, an antibacterial ointment inside, and appropriate antibiotics; during treatment no litter, and an E-collar to stop licking.

III. Neurological Disease

Central nervous disease relates most closely to constipation; interrupted nerve regulation also causes it. Related diseases: spinal injury, brain tumor or injury, cauda equina tumor. Paralysis can cause defecation disorder, especially of the colon. Cervical spinal cord injury leaves the head and neck unable to lift, lying down, with limb paralysis and incontinence of stool and urine; diagnosis by X-ray and myelography.

Cat constipation is a big problem; take the cat to a vet promptly to help it recover. If you have other related questions, consult an online pet veterinarian.