**Everything You Need to Know About Stool Softeners for Cats**

Constipation is a common problem in cats, affecting up to 5% of the population. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, a diet low in fiber, and certain medical conditions. If your cat is constipated, you may be wondering if a stool softener could help.

What are Stool Softeners?

Stool softeners are medications that help to make stool softer and easier to pass. They work by increasing the amount of water in the stool, which makes it less likely to become hard and dry. Stool softeners are available over-the-counter in a variety of forms, including liquids, tablets, and suppositories.

When to Use a Stool Softener for Cats

You should only use a stool softener for your cat if they are constipated. Constipation is characterized by hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass. Other signs of constipation include straining to defecate, crying out while defecating, and passing small, hard stools.

If your cat is constipated, you should take them to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Once any medical conditions have been ruled out, your vet may recommend using a stool softener to help your cat pass stool more easily.

Types of Stool Softeners for Cats

There are a variety of stool softeners available for cats, including:

• Liquid stool softeners: Liquid stool softeners are easy to administer and can be given orally or mixed with food. They are available in a variety of flavors to make them more palatable for cats.
• Tablets: Tablets are another option for stool softeners for cats. They are typically given orally and can be crushed and mixed with food if your cat has difficulty swallowing them whole.
• Suppositories: Suppositories are inserted into the rectum and work by softening the stool from the inside out. They can be a good option for cats who are severely constipated or who are unable to take oral medications.

How to Choose a Stool Softener for Cats

When choosing a stool softener for your cat, you should consider the following factors:

• The severity of your cat's constipation: If your cat is only mildly constipated, you may be able to use a liquid stool softener. If your cat is severely constipated, you may need to use a suppository.
• Your cat's age and weight: The dosage of stool softener you give your cat will depend on their age and weight. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully.
• Your cat's other medications: If your cat is taking other medications, you should talk to your vet to make sure that the stool softener will not interact with them.

How to Give a Stool Softener to Your Cat

The best way to give a stool softener to your cat will depend on the type of stool softener you are using.

• Liquid stool softeners: Liquid stool softeners can be given orally or mixed with food. If you are giving your cat the stool softener orally, use a dropper or syringe to measure out the correct dose.
• Tablets: Tablets can be given orally or crushed and mixed with food. If you are giving your cat the stool softener orally, make sure that they swallow it whole.
• Suppositories: Suppositories are inserted into the rectum. To insert a suppository, first remove your cat's tail and gently insert the suppository into their rectum. Hold the suppository in place for a few seconds to allow it to dissolve.

How Long Does It Take for a Stool Softener to Work?

Stool softeners typically start to work within 12 to 24 hours. However, it may take longer for your cat to have a bowel movement, depending on the severity of their constipation.

Side Effects of Stool Softeners for Cats

Stool softeners are generally safe for cats, but they can cause side effects, such as:

• Diarrhea: Stool softeners can make your cat's stool looser and more frequent. This is usually not a problem, but it can be a concern if your cat is already suffering from diarrhea.
• Skin irritation: Stool softeners can cause skin irritation if they are applied to the skin. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after giving your cat a stool softener.

When to Stop Using a Stool Softener

You should stop using a stool softener for your cat once they have had a bowel movement. If your cat's constipation does not improve after using a stool softener, you should take them to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Other Ways to Help Your Cat Pass Stool

In addition to stool softeners, there are a number of other things you can do to help your cat pass stool, including:

• Increase your cat's fiber intake: Fiber helps to bulk up the stool and make it easier to pass. You can increase your cat's fiber intake by feeding them a diet high in fiber or by adding a fiber supplement to their food.
• Make sure your cat is drinking plenty of water: Water helps to keep the stool soft and easy to pass. Make sure that your cat has access to plenty of fresh water at all times.
• Exercise your cat: Exercise can help to stimulate the bowels and make it easier for your cat to pass stool. Take your cat for a walk or play with them for a few minutes each day.
• Give your cat a warm bath: A warm bath can help to relax your cat's muscles and make it easier for them to pass stool. Fill a bathtub with warm water and let your cat soak for a few minutes.

Conclusion

If your cat is constipated, a stool softener may help to make them more comfortable and pass stool more easily. However, it is important to use stool softeners only as directed by your vet and to stop using them once your cat has had a bowel movement. If your cat's constipation does not improve after using a stool softener, you should take them to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Additional Information

• The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) estimates that up to 5% of cats will experience constipation at some point in their lives.
• Constipation is more common in older cats and cats with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease.
• Stool softeners are generally safe for cats, but they can cause side effects, such as diarrhea and skin irritation.
• If your cat is constipated, you should take them to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Call to Action

If you are concerned about your cat's constipation, please talk to your vet. They can help you determine if a stool softener is right for your cat and recommend other ways to help your cat pass stool more easily.