Constipation

Overview:

Both dogs and cats become constipated, but it is more common in cats. It is a common misconception to see your dog straining and assume he/she is constipated when in fact they are straining from diarrhea. Unless you observe your pet posturing to defecate several times and there is no feces, they are probably suffering from diarrhea.

Causes:

The causes of constipation are vast and can not all be listed. However, the most common are: hair or bone ingestion, arthritis, medications (diuretics, opioids), pelvic disorders, anal sac disease, foreign bodies, prostate disease, spinal cord disease, kidney disease, megacolon.

Symptoms:

Most animals will posture to defecate and either a small amount or no feces will be produced. The feces is usually dry and hard. Some of the feces will be slightly mucoid and may be bloody. Some patients vomit or are depressed.

Treatment:

Dehydrated patients benefit greatly from intravenous fluids. Any underlying condition needs to be addressed and treated if possible. Bran, canned pumpkin, or psyllium can be added to the diet to encourage a bowel movement. Many patients, especially cats with megacolon, will require multiple enemas in the hospital, sometimes under anesthesia.