My cat strains to poop, vomits, and is in pain. Is it an emergency?

Question

My cat is having trouble passing stool. He strains and sometimes vomits from straining. Then it takes him a couple of tries to pass the stool. His butt gets red and he meows like he is in pain. It’s been happening occasionally for about 6 months but they said he was healthy at his annual checkup a month ago. I have an appointment scheduled 12 days from now but is this more urgent than that? Thanks! Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 4 years and 9 months old | 10 lbs

Kevin Sanada, DVM · Accepted Answer

If this has been happening for six months and is occasional, then I don't think he needs to see a vet more urgently at this time. The straining to defecate could be from hard, dry feces, worms, or other abnormality within the rectum. You may consider getting him some stool softeners (can get this at the pet store), or adding more water to his food if the stool appears too hard and dry. Below is a link to a fecal score guide. This will help you determine if there is a problem with the feces. I hope that helps and Atticus gets better soon.

My cat strains to poop, vomits, and is in pain. Is it an emergency?

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