My cat was constipated, took a massive poop, and hasn't pooped since (~44 hours ago). Should I be worried?

Thanks for reaching out—constipation in cats can definitely be concerning, especially if your cat is typically regular. A gap of 44 hours without pooping might not always be serious, but it's good to keep an eye on it.



When a cat passes a large amount of stool after being constipated, it's sometimes because there was a backup that's now cleared, which could be followed by a short break before the next bowel movement. Potential causes for this could be dehydration, a change in diet, or even stress.



At home, you can ensure your cat has plenty of fresh water, as hydration is key. Wet food can also help increase moisture intake. Encouraging gentle exercise, like playing, can sometimes stimulate bowel movements. You might try adding some canned pumpkin to their diet as it's high in fiber, but do avoid sweetened varieties meant for pies.



Watch for signs of a more serious issue, like ongoing discomfort, vomiting, loss of appetite, or straining without producing stool. These could indicate something like a blockage or more severe constipation, which would need veterinary attention.



If you're seeing any of these signs or if there's still no stool after 48 hours, book a video consult with Dial A Vet. We can discuss further steps and decide if a visit to a clinic is necessary.