what causes intestinal blockage in cats06 Sep what causes intestinal blockage in cats
Scientists have also identified a type usually seen only in cats called a linear obstruction. It can be either partial or complete. Veterinarians call this abnormal enlargement megacolon. It may point to something less serious. Your cat might not show any signs of an issue if its a partial obstruction. In less severe cases, dietary changes may be implemented as treatment to help a smaller, non-hazardous object pass through the GI tract successfully. Lymphocytic-plasmacytic enteritis and eosinophilic enteritis are the most common types in cats. One of the most common causes of an intestinal blockage is a foreign body your cat has ingested. This is to identify any food allergies your cat may have. Gastrointestinal obstruction is the blockage of the digestive tract. According to Richard Goldstein, DVM, an associate professor of small animal medicine at Cornell Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine, a spit-up hairballs elongated shape is imparted by the narrow food tube (esophagus) in which it develops or through which it passes on its journey from the cats stomach to the outside world. Signs typically include longterm diarrhea, weight loss, and altered appetite (loss of appetite or excessive eating). Your vet may treat your pet in one of the following ways. Cats with stomach ulceration may have no signs and may develop sudden, life-threatening bleeding within the digestive tract. Your veterinarian may recommend feeding your cat a hypoallergenic or elimination diet. This would require medication to induce the vomiting, but these arent always reliable, so it may not work. How Do I Care for a Cat With an Intestinal Blockage? Specialized blood tests (such as tests for feline leukemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus, or thyroid function) may also be necessary. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, and abdominal pain. Your cat will likely remain hospitalized for a couple of days so your vet can monitor your pets recovery. Heres what to know about intestinal blockages, so your cat can stay as safe and healthy as possible! When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. BVSc GPCert (Ophthal) MRCVS (Veterinarian). When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Precautions should be taken to ensure the ct does not eat similar objects in the future. The immediate goal is to ensure your kitty is keeping down food and eating on its own. When the large intestine is damaged by illness, parasites, or other causes, diarrhea is often the result. Treatment for an intestinal blockage will depend on the severity and the underlying cause of the blockage. Intestinal obstruction may be partial or complete and may be caused by foreign objects, intussusception (a condition in which the intestine telescopes on itself), incarceration (such as being constricted in a hernia), and tumors. Hospitalization with intensive care is often needed because of the high risk of severe bleeding. The cats history is particularly important because it may suggest a specific food allergy, consumption of non-food items, or other sensitivity. Prior to becoming Editor-in-Chief of It's a Fish Thing, Lindsey studied marine biology at the University of California-Santa Cruz. What to Do if My Dog has Something Stuck in his Throat? You will have to be careful to prevent the cat from licking its sutures. In more severe cases of constipation, a veterinarian will need to remove retained feces using enemas or manual extraction while your pet is under general anesthesia. Trichobezoar is the medical or scientific term that is used to describe a hairball. The goal of ulcer management is to determine the cause of the ulceration and then eliminate or control it. The virus is shed in the feces of infected cats. As your cat grooms herself, she swallows a lot of loose hair. This means restricting your cats access to string, hair ties, and anything else its fond of eating that can cause an obstruction. Several things can bring about intussusception, including drastic diet changes, internal parasites, and ingestion of foreign bodies. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that chiefly cause respiratory infections read more . Treatment Success rate Cats who have bowel obstructions will often show signs of discomfort or pain such as vomiting and diarrhea. Linear obstructions such as string or cord may be removed in this way, but an endoscopic removal is more common and effective. If left untreated it can result in the death of your cat. Frequent grooming can lead to the ingestion of large quantities of hair, which can affect the animals quality of life or even their lifespan. Feline Behavior Explained (Vet Answer), 18 Wild Cat Species & Where Theyre Found (With Pictures), 6 Best Flea Powders for Cats 2023 Reviews & Top Picks, How Do Cats Cool Down? Diets with these ingredients are usually available from veterinary clinics rather than commercial outlets, or they can be home-made. Intestinal blockage is a serious condition that can occur in cats. Blood tests are performed to identify complications from the obstruction. This happens because the tiny backward-slanted projections (papillae) that roughen the surface of her tongue propel the hair down her throat and into her stomach. Intestinal blockages in cats occur when the stomach or intestines are either partially or completely blocked, restricting the flow of both nutrients and waste matter. If you have a cat which has undergone treatment for intestinal blockage, you will want to know how long it will take to recuperate. But when a complete intestinal blockage occurs, it means nothing can get through. The exocrine read more , whereas most cases of absorption failure are caused by diseases in the small intestine. Enteric coronavirus infection can be prevented only by minimizing exposure to infected cats and their feces. Signs are often longterm and sometimes come and go. This situation is extremely dangerous since the foreign body can eventually cut through the intestine and cause peritonitis which can be fatal. Bowel Obstructions in Dogs & Cats | Erin Vets, Cat Intestinal Blockage Surgery Cost & Recovery | Berkeley Vet Blog, JFMS Gastrointestinal endoscopy in the cat: Diagnostics and therapeutics. If your cat is showing any clinical signs of an intestinal blockage, such as drooling, vomiting, lack of appetite, or straining to defecate but failure to pass stool, you need to reach out to your veterinarian immediately as they will need treatment right away. Being sick or injured is a sign of weakness to these animals, making this thing instinctive. This is considered a medical emergency and the cat must be taken to a veterinarian immediately for treatment. The outlook for cats with ulcers that are not caused by malignant tumors is good. The categories include: A complete obstruction refers to a complete blockage of the intestine, preventing any contents from passing through the digestive system properly. Affected cats should receive plenty of water. The legacy of this great resource continues as the Merck Veterinary Manual in the US and Canada and the MSD Vet Manual outside of North America. However, the information found on Excited Cats should not be viewed as veterinary advice. AnimalWised does not have the authority to prescribe any veterinary treatment or create a diagnosis. Fluids and electrolytes are likely to be given intravenously and, in some cases, plasma may also be given. Relieving the Obstruction Hepper.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. The blockage can arise outside, within the wall, or inside the cavity of the digestive tract. As cat lovers, we try to be as cautious as possible and keep our home cat-proof, but our curious kitties sure love to exhibit those natural hunting instincts through play and will resort to various household objects to fulfill their needs. Theyll likely receive IV fluids, pain meds, and antibiotics if deemed necessary. Dark, tarry stools, which indicate the presence of blood, and pale gums suggesting anemia may be present. However, other things may lead to this condition that are often seen more in felines than canines. This article is purely informative. It may just pass the foreign body. Sadly, they generally eat meals giant sufficient to trigger bowel obstruction, which might be deadly. Occassionally, severe vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory signs (such as sneezing and coughing) can be seen. Lymphocytic-plasmacytic gastritis and eosinophilic gastritis are types of longterm gastritis that involve the movement of immune cells into the tissues of the stomach. Pet Keen is reader-supported. Youll have to cat-proof your home with many of the same mom tricks to keep them out of mischief. Intestinal blockage in cats is a medical condition that occurs when a cat's intestines become blocked and unable to properly provide a cat with the nutrients they need from consuming solids and liquids. Causes of Intestinal Obstruction in Cats Ingestion of foreign bodies is the primary cause of intestinal obstruction, and it tends to occur more commonly in younger cats as they tend to be more likely to ingest inappropriate objects. Approximately 90% of diagnosed feline intestinal tumors are malignant and metastasis is common. What exactly is an intestinal blockage? He or she will also do a physical exam to assess your situation. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or an ultrasound can be used to view the intestinal tract and locate any blockages that have occurred. Malabsorption is poor absorption of a nutrient resulting from interference with its digestion, absorption, or both. Older animals are predisposed, occurring with an average age of 10 to 12 years in cats. Please confirm that you are a health care professional. However, if the obstruction has caused complications like an infection, the chances of a complete recovery are less clear. This is often due to the cat swallowing a large object or several small objects. When a tumor is suspected, a biopsy may be performed to reach an adequate diagnosis. Signs of a possible tumor vary depending on the location and extent of the tumor and associated consequences. Laxatives formulated for human use can be very dangerous for pets. Lymphoma and adenocarcinoma are two common types of digestive system tumors seen in cats. This serious and potentially life-threatening condition must be treated promptly, so were going to give you a rundown of what intestinal blockage is, what can cause it, the signs to look out for, and the treatment you can expect. Lack of Appetite: Cats with intestinal blockages often lose their appetite and may refuse to eat. Mild constipation can often be treated by switching to a high-fiber diet, keeping your cat from eating bones or other objects, providing ready access to water, improving opportunities for defecation (for example, providing more litter boxes and cleaning boxes more frequently), and using appropriate laxatives (usually for a short time only). It's not hard to imagine how it can quickly become life-threatening. Infection with feline enteric coronavirus causes inflammation of the small intestine, but is not usually fatal. More often than not, surgery is the best treatment. If left untreated, it can lead to a decrease in their health which may be life threatening. o [ canine influenza] Feline enteric coronavirus is highly contagious, especially among cats in close contact. In her free time, Misty enjoys. An intestinal blockage in cats means that the digestive process is affected, reducing the ability to absorb nutrients and causing some serious physical discomfort. A complete obstruction is when an object blocks the passage of all material through a cat's GI tract. Linear items, like string or rubber bands, can make an already invasive procedure even more complicated, particularly if it has become embedded or attached to other structures. Bile, froth, fresh blood, or digested blood that looks like coffee grounds may be seen. Whether this is the case for your cat depends on when your pet ate the object and the sort of object it is. , DVM, DACVIM, Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph; , DVM, DVSc, DACVIM-SAIM, University of Guelph, Ontario Veterinary College; , MA, VetMB, PhD, DECVIM-CA, Langford Vets, Bristol Veterinary School; , BSc, BEd, DVM, DVSc, DACVSMR, Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph; , BSc, DVM, DVSc, DACVIM, Toronto Veterinary Emergency Clinic, Diseases that affect the stomach and intestines include infectious diseases (such as bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases) and noninfectious disorders (such as tumors and obstruction.). Treatment involves surgical removal and/or chemotherapy, depending on the type of tumor. Featured Image Credit: PRESSLAB, Shutterstock. Supporting Cat Health with Information and Health Studies. This blockage makes it so neither liquids nor solids can pass through the intestines. Constipation is the infrequent or difficult passage of feces. If possible, the underlying cause should be identified and treated. Long-haired breeds such as Persians and Maine Coons may be at greater risk for developing hairballs than are short-haired breeds. Common Reasons For Cat Intestinal Blockages If your cat has an intestinal blockage it's most likely because they ate something they shouldn't have. In this case, do not pull on the item! Specialized DNA tests have shown the feline leukemia virus to be a potential cause of intestinal lymphoma in cats. This will particularly be the case if you touch them in their abdomen where this area is tender. Some cats are, by nature, more fastidious than others in their grooming habits. Most cats develop an effective immune response after exposure and will recover from infection. It is important to treat it fairly aggressively to prevent progression. Blood, urine, and fecal tests may be necessary, along with x-rays and/or an abdominal ultrasound. The prognosis is good in many cases. An endoscopy would likely occur next if a foreign object is stuck in the stomach and induced vomiting isnt working. While the term gastrointestinal blockage is sometimes used regarding these conditions, its important to note that an intestinal blockage refers to an obstruction within the intestines, while a gastrointestinal blockage refers to an obstruction anywhere within the digestive tract (esophagus, stomach, or intestines). Ultrasonography or examination using an endoscope may also be used to identify the problem. However, the wad of matted hair can pose a serious health threat it if grows too large to pass through the narrow sphincters leading either from the esophagus to the stomach or from the stomach to the intestinal tract. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Siamese cats have an increased risk for some types of intestinal cancer. Cancer of the digestive system is uncommon and represents less than 10% of all cancers in cats. Modifying the diet, without other treatment, may be effective in some cases. Vomiting: One of the first signs of an intestinal blockage is when your cat's vomit has a foul odor resembling feces. Cat Nail Biting: Vet Approved Tips If Your Cat Chews & Pulls His Claws, Why Is My Kitten So Hyper? Share Intestinal cancer is a relatively uncommon form of cancer in cats, accounting for only a small percentage of all feline cancer cases. A linear foreign body causes a particular type of obstruction. The response to treatment varies, and the outlook is uncertain. Typically, the way the gastrointestinal tract works is that it goes through a process known as peristalsis, wherein food and more get transported from the stomach to the small intestines. When shes not writing about cats, Chris also enjoys boating and sampling wine. In the case of a partial obstruction, a cat may show similar signs to a complete blockage, or no signs at all. However any intestinal blockage is potentially fatal and survival time can vary significantly by individual. Stay on top of cat food recalls here >, Have a dog? Only mild foods should be administered during the first few days to avoid irritation. Gastritis is sudden or longterm vomiting caused by inflammation of the stomach. Your veterinarian will attempt to remove the foreign object based on the imagery data. The outlook depends on the cause of the vomiting and the likelihood of correcting the underlying disorder. Despite being stuck, your cats intestinal system is still trying to pass the object through via the end thats free. Our mission at Pet Keen is to make the life of you and your pets easier and even more enjoyable. Complications can occur if whatever the pet ate damages the internal organs or perforates the intestines. Longterm colitis is likely to improve initially, but signs frequently recur. Examining the abdomen through the skin is usually not sufficient, so an x-ray or ultrasound will likely be implemented if an intestinal blockage is suspected. A visit to the veterinarian is advised. The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. If youre sure your cat ate something, your vet may hospitalize your pet and monitor them to see if they pass the foreign object. Other causes include tumors in the cats GI tract that can interfere with peristalsis. However, in cats with more serious illness, accompanying signs can be severe. 2. Intestinal blockages, however, can be different. Antiparasitic medications may also be recommended. Intestinal changes caused by the disease may be seen using an endoscope in some cases. Obstipation is severe constipation with a mass of dry, hard feces that does not pass. Misty Layne lives out in the woods in small-town Alabama with her two SiameseSerafina and Jasper. This means feeding a source of protein that the cat has not previously eaten. Every so often, your otherwise fastidious cat will do an alarming and somewhat disgusting thing. If an obstruction cannot be removed using the endoscope or if it occurs in the intestines, then surgery will be needed. Finally, waste products are pushed out of the rectum and anus. The virus is extremely widespread in cats, and many cats that recover from the infection still harbor and shed the virus. Youll also need to monitor your cats food and water intake. Once the cat can retain food and fluid, they can return home. Over time, the fiber dose can be often be reduced or eliminated. your cat may have ingested something they shouldnt, its important to get your pet to their vet straight away. Cat intestinal blockage symptoms can vary according to whether the blockage is complete or partial, and the treatment for the blockage depends on the cause. The cat will likely be affected by extreme dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Supplementation of dietary fiber alone is rarely effective in severe cases. Common things that cats eat that they shouldnt include string, thread, hair bands, rubber bands, small toys and tinsel. Use for phrases Many will happily eat various items in their environment, whether inside or out, much of which can lead to problems with digestion. In severe cases, the blockage could cause poor blood circulation to the bowels, leading to shock, tissue death, and possibly life-threatening infection. Some animals require additional short-term use of medication to thicken the feces until inflammation is brought under control. If they are exhibiting the symptoms described above, it is imperative you take them to vet and don't try to cure it on your own. And when that happens, food and whatever else needs to be passed builds up behind the obstruction. Cats with lymphocytic-plasmacytic or eosinophilic gastritis may require medications to suppress the immune system. The symptoms of intestinal blockage in cats to look out for include: In some cases, due to general distress of the cat, the feline may become uncharacteristically aggressive. What exactly is an intestinal blockage?1 Its what happens when something is ingested, resulting in a partial or complete blockage in the intestines. Hairballs may be disgusting, but they develop as a result of your cat's healthy and fastidious grooming routine. A change in the shape of the intestine can cause the affected portion of the intestine to slip out of its normal place (prolapse) into an adjoining cavity or duct in the body. The signs of malabsorption are mainly due to lack of nutrient uptake and loss of nutrients in the feces. A physical examination will be performed alongside a standard set of laboratory tests. Chris has been a science-focused pet writer since 2009, specializing in health and the environment. If your cat is affected by bowel obstruction, as we said before the problem can exacerbate and become very perilous. Intestinal tumors in cats tend to spread rapidly and are usually malignant (cancerous). However, the outlook worsens for cats with severe disease of the small intestine. . Weight loss and vomiting are uncommon. Ingestion of an indigestible foreign body is the most common cause of an intestinal obstruction in our feline friends, but there are other less common causes that can obstruct the stomach or the intestine either completely or partially, including: An intestinal blockage is considered a medical emergency and if you suspect your cat is suffering from one, you need to seek veterinary care right away so they can be diagnosed and treated promptly. Constipation, straining to defecate, abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, and abdominal infection associated with the rupture of the affected bowel have also been reported. An intestinal blockage is most often caused by a foreign body (non-food object) being ingested and causing an obstruction. Intestinal blockages in cats can be caused by a variety of factors, including ingestion of foreign objects, inflammatory bowel disease, tumors, and constipation. During the visit, be sure to tell your veterinarian if your cat has any tendency to eat bones, litter, or other hard matter. Occasionally. You might have a couple more questions about intestinal blockages that havent been answered yet, so here are two of the most frequently asked questions about this issue. The average age reported for the development of disease in cats is 7 years. It becomes serious if multiple objects create a complete blockage. Trichobezoars (Hairballs) in Cats. Gastrointestinal issues in cats are fairly normal. Complete Obstruction. In cases of short-term gastritis, the vomiting is sudden and may contain evidence of whatever the cat has eaten (such as grass). What Are the Causes of an Intestinal Blockage? Cats with some types of inflammation may respond to dietary management alone (such as changing to lamb and rice, or a commercially available diet). During this time, your pet will need to rest and restrict any activity, and you will need to check on the incision site often to ensure it isnt infected or swollen. This is why AnimalWised helps you look out for the signs and symptoms of this condition to know when the correct treatment will need to be implemented. This blockage makes it so neither liquids nor solids can pass through the intestines. Whether you have concerns about your dog, cat, or other pet, trained vets have the answers! You will need to find a comfortable place for the cat's recovery, providing a calm environment away from noise, unsupervised children and other pets. Abdominal palpitation by the veterinarian may notify the vet of the presence of swelling or other intestinal issues such as hardness in the belly or bowel. Featured Image Credit: Alexander Andrews, Unsplash, 4 Homemade Grain-Free Cat Treat Recipes (Vet Approved), Can Cats Eat Kale? Treatment of malabsorption involves dietary treatment, management of complications, and treatment of the cause (if it can be identified).
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