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My cat with CKD hasn't pooped in 4 days. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 7.5 lbs

My cat, who has CKD, has not defecated in 4 or 5 days. Is there a way of getting her past this, or do I have to take her into a vet's office? Thank you very much.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on September 4th, 2017

Hi and thank you for posting your question on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Constipation is not uncommon in cats with CKD. This is because they are loosing water though their kidneys due to decreased or compromised kidney function and this can affect how hydrated the colon is. A dehydrated colon can cause constipation. Some tips I have is to offer fresh running water for Mila-pet fountains work very well for cats and can be purchased at your local pet supplies store. Plain canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) can be helpful in adding extra fiber and moisture to her food. Plain unflavored Metamucil can also help. You can add this to her water or food. However, since it has been nearly 5 days and she hasn't passed any feces, she probably needs an enema at this point at a veterinary clinic. Going this long without defecating can cause a backup and can lead to permanent disfunction of the colon. I hope you are able to take her in and I wish you and Mila the very best!

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