Help, I'm really worried about my cat, Luna. Over the past few days, she hasn’t been herself at all. She’s usually super playful and loves to zoom around the house, but lately, all she wants to do is lie in her favorite spot by the window and nap. I’ve noticed she’s been straining when she tries to use the litter box, but nothing much is happening, which makes me think she might be constipated. Her appetite has also decreased, and she turns her nose up at her favorite treats, which is so unlike her. I've read that this might be serious, and I’m starting to panic. My vet can’t see her until next week, so I’m reaching out to see if anyone has experienced something similar. Is there anything I can do at home to help her? I hate seeing her uncomfortable like this. Any advice would be massively appreciated.
Thanks for reaching out about your cat's health. Seeing your furry friend unwell can be worrying, so let's explore what's happening and what you can do at home.
Constipation in cats can occur due to several reasons, such as dehydration, hairballs, a diet low in fiber, or even stress. You'll often notice your cat straining in the litter box, producing hard, dry stools, or visiting the box more frequently without results.
Here are some at-home care tips that may help relieve mild constipation: First, make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water to encourage hydration, as this can help soften stools. You can also try gently increasing their dietary fiber by introducing small amounts of canned pumpkin or steamed vegetables. Setting up a regular grooming routine can help reduce hairballs, which often lead to constipation.
Keep an eye out for signs that the issue may be more serious. If your cat hasn't defecated in a couple of days, seems to be in pain, has a poor appetite, or appears lethargic, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly as this may indicate a more serious condition.
I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet so we can further assess your cat's condition and provide tailored advice to get them back to feeling their best.
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