Cats will normally defecate once or twice a day, or sometimes once every two days depending on their diet. A constipated cat may cease to defecate altogether, or may eliminate fewer stools. Stools may also be very small and dry because they have taken longer to pass through the digestive tract. If your cat is suffering from constipation you may also notice your cat straining over the litter tray.

Constipation in cats can be classified as temporary or chronic, and as partial or complete. Temporary bouts of constipation are normally a result of a blockage of some kind, which can include undigested materials such as hair or feathers, or a poor diet. To reduce the chances of your cat’s own hair from causing a blockage, your cat should be groomed regularly. Make sure that your cat’s diet includes enough fiber – ask your pet store to recommend a high-fiber supplement to add to your cat’s food. Alternatively, you can add chunks of canned pumpkin to your cat’s food, which will also add much-needed vitamins. Also make sure that your cat is drinking enough water by monitoring his water bowl. If he does not appear to be drinking enough, try changing the type of bowl or seeing if he can be attracted to a slowly-running tap. Water consumption is essential to good digestion.

If your cat’s constipation is complete, and your cat is entirely unable to defecate for longer than 48 hours, or your cat has chronic partial constipation you must take him to a vet for a complete examination, since it is possible that your cat has a life-threatening tumor or other underlying health condition.