Kitty Cat Health Tip of the Month
Constipated Kitties are Cranky!
If you've ever been "stopped up" you know how lousy that can feel. It can be even more uncomfortable for your cat, and can even lead to serious health problems. This month's Tips are all going to be about this overlooked problem.
Unless you know your pussycat is constipated you can't do anything about it! I will give you suggestions of how to alleviate constipation in the next posting, but mainly you need to know that once you rule out any serious medical issue, DEHYDRATION is the culprit in constipation. Dehydration starts by feeding dry food - "kitty crack" - which you know i have been preaching for years is an inappropriate food for obligate carnivores!
SIGNS OF CONSTIPATION
* No daily bowel movement
* Straining to defecate
* Crying out while passing stool ((dry, hard stool hurts!)
* Squatting in box for a long time before & after defecating
* Feces are hard little pieces
* Stool is black or bloody
* Vomiting
NOTE: My common sense advice is not intended to take the place of medical care. As with any health problem, always check first with your veterinarian for professional advice..