Kitten Constipation

Kitten constipation is a little discussed problem. Most cat owners are much more concerned about diarrhea as this tends to be more common is kittens. Yet, feline constipation can be equally as problematic for young kittens.

Defining cat constipation can be challenging as all cats vary in term of their elimination schedules. Some kittens poop once a day. Others cats go every other day. But, really, for optimal health a cat should eliminate at least once per day. Stool should be firm and color and consistency may vary upon the cat’s diet.

Long-term chronic constipation can cause serious problems in cats. It can lead to severe fecal impactions and even cause the rectum to prolapsed and become visible outside of the body. So, it wants attention if you notice that your feline is having difficulty eliminating.

Kitten Constipation Causes

Anything can upset a kitten’s delicate intestinal system. And constipation can have many causes. Kittens under two weeks of age are particularly prone to constipation. They require stimulation of their genital region to poop. And they do not gain the ability to void on their own until a few weeks of age. Here are some of the most common causes of constipation in cats.

• Dehydration
• Lack of Dietary Fiber
• Poor diet
• Hairballs
• Pica (Eating Objects)
• Obesity
• Changes in the Cat’s Environment
• Lack of Exercise
• Bowel Obstruction
• Other medical problems

• Bloated, Swollen Abdomen
• Straining During Elimination
• Vomiting
• Hard Stools
• Weakness
• Poor Skin Quality
• Blood Streaked Stools
• Poor Appetite
• Refusal to Eat

Feline Constipation Home Remedies

Most kitten constipation can be treated with basis natural home remedies. Adding fiber to the diet helps keep felines eliminating regularly. Bran or psyllium husks are wonderful sources of natural fiber.

Pumpkin puree is also great to use to a boost of fiber to the diet. And most cats love the taste. Just mix about a teaspoon or two of canned pumpkin or homemade pumpkin puree in your kitty’s food. Or they can just eat the puree unmixed with food.

Increasing your kitten’s availability of water can help treat constipation. Be sure to keep plenty of fresh cool water near your feline to keep them well hydrated.

Increasing your cat’s physical movement and playtime can reduce the chance of a cat developing constipation. Exercise aids the intestinal track in moving food through and out of the body. So, have fun with your cat and play more together! See your veterinarian for chronic cat constipation or if there is no improvement after 2 or 3 days of home treatments.

Cat Constipation Medical Treatments

When constipation is severe enough, you’ll want to take your kitten to the vet. Your vet will check your kitten’s abdomen. If they decide that your cat has constipation, they will prescribe a few treatments. Mineral oil works by lubricating the intestinal tract. It’s great to have a bottle on hand at home just in case of bout with constipation. Check with your vet to determine the correct amount based upon your cat’s age and weight.

Lactulose is a type of synthetic sugar that is an anti-constipation medicine. It is really quite effective in relieving constipation. If all else fails, suppositories and enemas are another choice. Your kitten probably won’t like these treatments, but they are effective.

The last option for severely constipated cats is to have the vet manually remove hard feces from a cat’s rectum. The cat will need to be sedated for the procedure. However, manual removal could prove lifesaving for a cat.

Remember…kitten constipation can be mild or severe. Keep an eye on your kitten’s bowel habits and frequency.

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