Feline enemas can be used regularly for bowel problems in older cats and occasionally for treatment of constipation in any cat. Enemas remove impacted fecal matter in the bowels, allowing a cat to defecate properly.
Procedure
An animal-safe solution (provided by a veterinarian) is administered at home or by a veterinarian into the cat's rectum through a catheter tube, softening and flushing the impacted stool from the cat's bowels.
Effects
The enema allows the cat to defecate, but can also cause temporary vomiting and lethargy.
Benefits
Enemas allow cats to pass fecal matter and avoid further complications such as obstipation (severely obstructed bowels) or mega colon (enlargement of the colon due to blockage). Enemas also relieve discomfort due to constipation.
Prevention
Try using a feline laxative (laxatone, a teaspoon of mineral oil or a little milk), which may encourage the cat to release his bowels naturally. Ensure that your cat consumes enough fiber (add a spoonful of pumpkin to moist food).
Warning
Never use enemas formulated for humans on a cat. The solution is toxic to cats and can result in the death of your cat.
