moderate urgency

Constipation in Dogs & Cats

Infrequent, difficult, or absent bowel movements. More common and potentially serious in cats (megacolon).

Common Causes

  • Dehydration
  • Low fiber diet
  • Ingested hair/bones
  • Megacolon (cats)
  • Pelvic injury
  • Neurological disease

Red Flags

  • No stool for 3+ days
  • Vomiting with constipation
  • Crying when trying to defecate
  • Distended abdomen
  • Lethargy

When to See a Vet

If no bowel movement for 48+ hours, straining is painful, or there is blood when attempting to defecate.

🐕 Constipation by Dog Breed

🐈 Constipation by Cat Breed

Concerned about constipation?

Use AIVET's AI-powered triage console to assess your pet with video and audio analysis.

Launch AI Triage →