Signs of constipation in dogs and cats.

Most obviously constipation shows itself as a dog or cat trying to have a poo but nothing happening. They tend to strain and keep getting into the position to pass faeces but can’t manage. Sometimes they’ll pass a little nugget or you may see mucus if the dog or cat has colitis. If your cat goes outside to go to the toilet it can be very difficult to tell if they are constipated until they start to feel really bloated and miserable.

Most of us will have been constipated at some point and we can empathise with that bloated feeling as everything starts to back up. Constipation for more than a few days can actually make us, and our cats and dogs feel quite uncomfortable and ill.  

What to give a dog or cat that is constipated.

As I said, constipation is often not a serious issue and may resolve on its own after a day or two. You can try to help by increasing the water in your pet’s diet to start with by soaking kibble or adding extra water to their wet food. Giving a higher fibre food can sometimes help too but always talk to your vet before switching foods as in some cases like advanced megacolon or a bony impaction fibre could make it worse. There are also some over-the-counter pet laxatives that could help. The main thing is not to let it go on too long because if there is an underlying cause the longer it’s left the more damage might be done. Particularly if your cat or dog seems in pain, depressed or confused or you see blood then you should get to the vet as soon as possible. Also if the constipation is recurrent.

Some owners worry about wasting the vet’s time but as I always say to my clients we would much rather see an animal for no reason than possibly miss something and find that it’s too late. We are there for your peace of mind as much as for your animal’s health and wellbeing so don’t be afraid to ask.