Constipation / hair in cat poop

Question

Help, I’m kind of freaking out! My cat, Muffin, just started acting really off. It's been about two days now, and I noticed she's been straining a lot in her litter box but hardly anything comes out, except when it does, there's like... clumps of hair mixed in with her poop? This is obviously not normal for her, and I’m pretty worried. She grooms a lot, especially this time of year when she's shedding like crazy, but I didn’t realize it could get this bad. She’s still eating and drinking, but she seems a bit more lethargic than usual. I've tried brushing her more often to help, but does anyone know if I should be doing something else? I’m concerned and don’t want it to turn into something serious!

Dial A Vet · Accepted Answer

Appreciate the question — let's unpack this. Seeing constipation or hair in your cat’s poop can certainly be concerning. Constipation often occurs when a cat has difficulty passing stool, which can be connected to hair ingestion, especially if your cat is grooming excessively. Hairballs are common in cats, and while hair in the stool itself isn’t always alarming, it can contribute to blockage if accumulated.

There are several things you can try at home to help. Ensure your cat is well-hydrated by providing fresh water daily and maybe even incorporating wet food into their diet, as moisture can aid digestion. Brushing your cat regularly to reduce the amount of hair they ingest can also be beneficial.

Some signs to watch for include straining in the litter box, reduced appetite, vomiting, or changes in behavior, as these could indicate a more serious issue needing veterinary attention.

If you notice these signs or constipation persists, I suggest scheduling a video consult with Dial A Vet. Talking to a veterinarian directly can provide personalized guidance to ensure your furry friend feels better soon.

Constipation / hair in cat poop

Answer

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