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Megacolon in Cats

Abnormal dilation of the colon that prevents normal peristalsis. Causes severe constipation and can be life-threatening if untreated.

Vet Supervised

Symptoms

  • Severe constipation
  • Hard or small stools
  • Straining to defecate
  • Decreased appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Weight loss

Related Symptom Pages

ConstipationVomitingLoss of AppetiteWeight Loss

Causes

  • Idiopathic (most common)
  • Consequence of pelvic fractures
  • Nerve damage
  • Spinal disorders

Diagnosis

1

Abdominal X-rays

2

Abdominal ultrasound

3

Colonoscopy

4

Blood tests

Treatment

  • Stool softeners and laxatives
  • High-fiber diet
  • Enemas (severe cases)
  • Subtotal colectomy (when medical treatment fails)

Prognosis

Many cats can be maintained with medical management, but severe cases require surgery with good postoperative prognosis (>90%).

Severity: Medium

Prevention

  • Adequate water intake
  • Appropriate fiber in diet
  • Encourage exercise
  • Regular monitoring of bowel habits

Commonly Affected Breeds

ManxSiamese

Epidemiology

Age Range

Most common in middle-aged to older cats (5+ years)

Prevalence

Approximately 10-15% of cats with chronic constipation

Related Articles

SymptomsCat Constipation: Causes, Remedies & When to Visit the VetRead articleSymptomsCat Vomiting: Causes, When to Worry & What to DoRead articleSymptomsCat Loss of Appetite: Causes, Home Remedies & When to See a VetRead article
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