Constipation in Pets: Causes, Symptoms & Safe Treatment

Constipation in Pets: Causes, Symptoms & Safe Treatment

Constipation in cats and dogs is usually not serious, but it can become dangerous if it lasts too long. It happens when stool becomes hard and difficult to pass. While skipping one bowel movement is not always a problem, repeated straining or discomfort means your pet needs help.

Key Signs of Constipation

- Hard, dry stool
- Straining without passing stool
- Small amounts of blood or mucus
- Stool found outside the litter box or usual area
- Loss of appetite or discomfort

⚠ Important Warning
Straining can sometimes mean a urinary blockage, especially in male cats. If you are unsure whether your pet is able to urinate, go to the vet immediately. This is a life-threatening emergency.

Common Causes of Constipation

- Swallowing too much hair from grooming
- Eating bones, stones, plants, or dirt
- Side effects of certain medications
- Dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
- Kidney disease in older pets
- Pelvic injuries or enlarged prostate in male dogs
- Intestinal blockage or internal disease

How Constipation Is Treated

Treatment must always be done by a veterinarian. It may include:

- Enemas given safely at the clinic
- Stool softeners prescribed by the vet
- IV fluids to treat dehydration
- Medications to help the intestines move

❌ Never use human laxatives or enemas at home — many are toxic to pets.

Best Diet for Constipated Pets

Your vet may recommend one of these:

- High-fiber diets to help push stool out
- Easily digestible diets to keep stool soft
- Adding canned pumpkin or vet-approved fiber

Recurring Constipation

If constipation keeps coming back, your pet may need:

- Long-term stool softeners
- Special prescription diet
- X-rays or blood tests to find the real cause

Constipation vs. Severe Constipation (Obstipation)

Obstipation is a dangerous condition where the colon becomes packed with hard stool and cannot empty. Signs include:

- Severe straining
- Vomiting
- Extreme pain
- Lethargy and appetite loss

This condition often requires hospitalization and manual stool removal under anesthesia.

Surgical Treatment (In Severe Cases)

Some pets with chronic constipation or megacolon may need surgery to remove part of the colon. Most pets feel much better after recovery, but surgery is only used when all other treatments fail.

When Should You See a Vet?

- If constipation lasts more than 24 hours
- If there is blood, vomiting, or severe pain
- If your pet is straining and not urinating
- If constipation keeps happening repeatedly

Early treatment prevents serious complications and keeps your pet safe and comfortable.
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