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Digestivas

Megacolon

Chronic dilation of the colon, which loses its ability to contract and empty. Common in cats as a progression of untreated chronic constipation.

Severe🐈 Cats

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Chronic, recurrent constipation
  • • Intense, unproductive straining
  • • Very hard, bulky stools
  • • Loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss
  • • Vomiting
  • • Distended abdomen

Causes

Often a progression of chronic constipation. Also caused by pelvic narrowing (poorly healed fractures), neurological problems, or it may be idiopathic.

Diagnosis

X-ray showing the colon severely dilated and full of faeces.

Treatment

Medical management: diet, laxatives, prokinetics, periodic evacuations. Advanced cases that do not respond: surgery to remove the affected part of the colon.

Prevention

Treat constipation early so it does not progress, along with hydration, fibre and exercise.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if your cat has constipation that keeps recurring. Treating it early prevents it from developing into megacolon.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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