CONSTIPATION
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Constipation occurs when stool moves too slowly through the colon. It’s common in older pets, dehydrated pets, and cats with underlying GI or metabolic diseases.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD CAUSES
• Dehydration
• Hair ingestion (cats)
• Lack of fiber
• Mild GI slowdown
MEDICAL CAUSES
• Kidney disease
• Megacolon (cats)
• Painful defecation
• Arthritis hindering posture
• Nerve issues
• Blockage (foreign body)
EMERGENCY CAUSES
• Complete obstruction
• Megacolon with severe distension
• Straining without stool + vomiting
RED FLAGS: WHEN THIS IS AN EMERGENCY
• Constipation >48 hours
• Vomiting + no stool
• Straining + extreme discomfort
• Bloated or painful abdomen
• Collapse or lethargy
AT-HOME CARE YOU CAN START NOW
• Add water to food
• Use canned food
• Add pumpkin or fiber (if approved by vet)
• Encourage movement
• Provide clean litter box (cats)
Do NOT give human laxatives — many are toxic.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Abdominal palpation
• X-rays for obstruction
• Hydration status
• Bloodwork (kidney function)
• Neurologic function
• Colon motility evaluation
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Mild constipation
• Dehydration
• Megacolon
• Arthritis-related straining
• Kidney disease
• Obstruction
BREEDS OR AGES AT HIGHER RISK
• Senior cats
• Large-breed seniors
• Cats with history of megacolon
WHEN YOU SHOULD SCHEDULE A VETERINARY VISIT
• Within 24–48 hours if no stool
• Immediately if vomiting
EXPECTED RECOVERY TIME
• Mild cases: 1–2 days
• Megacolon: chronic management
• Obstruction: surgical
HOW THIS SYMPTOM RELATES TO LONGEVITY
Chronic constipation often overlaps with kidney disease, dehydration, and mobility decline — all major longevity considerations.
WHEN TO CONSIDER A LONGEVITY CONSULT
• Senior cats
• Chronic constipation
• Kidney disease
• Weight loss