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Cats with constipation should be given special food because such diets are formulated to promote healthier digestion and easier stool passage. These foods often contain higher levels of fiber, which helps to increase the bulk and soften the stool, making it easier for the cat to defecate. Additionally, special foods can be enriched with probiotics and specific nutrients that support overall gastrointestinal health. These diets can also address proper hydration, which is crucial for preventing constipation, especially if they include wet food options.
Important: Please note that some of the foods reviewed below may not be available in Pakistan due to import restrictions.
5 Best Cat Foods for Cats with Constipation in Pakistan
Royal Canin Sterilised Adult Cat Food
Royal Canin Sterilised Adult Cat Food is highly regarded for its nutritional benefits specifically tailored for sterilised cats, which often tend to gain weight. This food is formulated to help maintain a healthy weight and support the urinary system, which is crucial for cats’ overall health, especially after sterilization.
Additionally, Royal Canin’s emphasis on research and veterinary expertise in developing their formulas ensures that the food meets the nutritional needs of cats, including those with specific health issues such as constipation. The inclusion of dietary fibers in their formulas can aid in digestion and help prevent issues like constipation, making it a suitable choice for cats with sensitive digestive systems.
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Cat Jelly
The Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Cat Jelly is designed for cats facing digestive health issues, including constipation. Its formulation includes easily digestible proteins to aid in smoother digestion, a balanced blend of fibers to support intestinal transit, and essential nutrients to enhance overall gastrointestinal health. This diet helps maintain the balance of gut flora with prebiotics and provides a high moisture content, which can help with hydration and promote a healthier, more regular bowel movement. It’s an effective dietary solution for cats suffering from digestive discomfort and can significantly contribute to relieving constipation symptoms.
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Kitten Food
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Kitten Food is specially formulated to support the digestive health of kittens with sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal issues, including constipation. It’s enriched with highly digestible proteins, prebiotics, and a specific blend of fibers to promote a balanced intestinal flora and ensure optimal digestive health. This combination helps to facilitate regular bowel movements and improve stool quality, effectively addressing constipation in young cats. Additionally, the food is designed to meet the high energy needs of growing kittens while also supporting their immune system development. By focusing on gut health, this diet aids in the overall well-being and growth of kittens, making it an ideal choice for those with digestive sensitivities.
Mera Finest Fit Kitten Jelly (Wet Food Pouch)
Mera Finest Fit Kitten Jelly is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of growing kittens. This premium wet food is formulated with high-quality proteins, essential vitamins, and minerals to support overall health, including the development of strong bones and muscles. The inclusion of jelly in the food helps to ensure that it’s not only palatable for young felines but also aids in hydration, which is crucial for maintaining healthy digestion. The higher moisture content of this wet food can significantly help in preventing constipation, a common issue in kittens, by promoting regular bowel movements and ensuring the digestive system works smoothly.
MERA Finest Fit Sensitive Stomach Wet Cat food
MERA Finest Fit Sensitive Stomach Wet Cat Food is tailored for cats with sensitive digestion or gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation. It is specifically formulated with high-quality, easily digestible ingredients to ensure gentle digestion and promote optimal nutrient absorption. This diet includes a high moisture content, which is crucial for maintaining proper hydration and facilitating smoother bowel movements. It also contains prebiotics and dietary fibers that help regulate the digestive system and support healthy intestinal flora.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Cat Food for Constipation
Moisture Content
High moisture content is crucial in a cat’s diet, especially for those prone to constipation. Wet food or food with a jelly-like consistency helps keep the cat hydrated, which can soften stools and facilitate easier bowel movements. Adequate hydration is essential for preventing constipation and promoting a healthy digestive system.
Fiber Content
Look for cat foods that contain an appropriate level of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion and helps create more bulk in the stool, stimulating bowel movements. However, too much fiber can be counterproductive, so it’s important to find a balance that suits your cat’s individual needs.
Quality of Ingredients
The quality of ingredients directly impacts your cat’s health. Foods with high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, and without fillers or artificial additives are preferable. Good ingredients ensure your cat gets the necessary nutrients without unnecessary fillers that could exacerbate digestive issues.
Prebiotics and Probiotics
These beneficial bacteria support gut health by maintaining a healthy balance of microflora in the digestive tract. Cat foods enriched with prebiotics and probiotics can help enhance digestive health, aiding in smoother bowel movements and reducing the risk of constipation.
Specific Needs of Your Cat
Every cat has unique nutritional needs based on age, breed, activity level, and health status. Younger cats or those with specific health issues may need different nutrition than healthy adult cats. Consultation with a veterinarian can help identify a diet that addresses constipation while meeting all other nutritional requirements.
Avoidance of Certain Ingredients
Some cats may be sensitive or allergic to specific ingredients like grains, certain proteins, or artificial additives, which can contribute to digestive issues including constipation. Identifying and avoiding these ingredients can help in choosing a cat food that promotes regular bowel movements.
Veterinary Recommendations
Always consider your veterinarian’s advice when selecting cat food for constipation. They can provide recommendations based on your cat’s health history, current condition, and specific dietary needs, ensuring the food you choose is the best fit for your pet’s situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do cats suffer from constipation?
Cats suffer from constipation due to a variety of reasons including dehydration, insufficient fiber in their diet, lack of physical activity, or underlying health issues such as kidney problems, obesity, or blockages. A diet lacking in moisture and high in indigestible materials can also contribute to difficulty in passing stool.
What human foods can a cat eat during constipation?
During constipation, cats can safely eat human foods that are high in moisture and fiber, such as pumpkin (not the pie filling), cooked winter squash, and a small amount of cooked green beans. These should be given in moderation to supplement their regular diet to help alleviate constipation.
Is wet or dry food better during constipation?
Wet food is generally better for cats during constipation because it has a higher moisture content than dry food. The increased water intake from wet food helps soften the stool, making it easier to pass. Wet food also typically contains more meat and less grain than dry food, which can be beneficial for digestive health.
How to switch a cat to cat food for constipation?
To switch a cat to cat food for constipation, gradually introduce the new food over 7-10 days. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food while decreasing the old food. This gradual transition helps prevent digestive upset and allows the cat to adjust to the new diet.
Does raw food cause constipation?
Raw food does not inherently cause constipation in cats. In fact, a well-balanced raw diet can be beneficial for digestive health, as it is high in moisture and can contain appropriate amounts of fiber when properly formulated. However, an imbalance in the diet, particularly a lack of fiber, can lead to constipation.
How long can cats go without pooping?
Cats typically defecate once a day, but going without pooping for up to 48 hours can be normal, depending on the cat’s diet, activity level, and individual digestive system. However, if a cat goes more than 2-3 days without a bowel movement, it may indicate constipation.