poopie problems

I have a cat who is 12 yrs old. He seems to be having trouble going to the bathroom. His stool is very hard and he looks to be straining. Is there anything I can do to ease the process?
   
thx, angie

Older cats often have constipation. The cat needs a stool softener.
   
My old cat had this problem: use psyllium (it's fiber, like Metamusil for humans).
   
You can buy it at health food stores, Vitamin Shoppe, & GNC. Start with a teaspoon, mixed into some canned cat food or tuna, per meal. Adjust it up & down until her stool is reasonably soft but not runny.
   
You can also call the vet, ask for a recommended dosage.
   
It would be wise to take the cat in, to have her digestion checked. Until you get there, the psyllium will treat the symptom with no side effects.