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Why is my 18-year-old cat constipated with weak back legs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | neutered | 18 years and 7 months old

My 18 year old male cat has not had a bowel movement in 3 days and his back legs started not to work well, took him to the Er vet and she things it could be kidney problems or cancer in the small intestine. She thought he was a little hydrated so he got a shot of water and a steroid. He’s a very strong 18 year old cat, acts like he’s 5 on a normal day. eats and drinks plenty of water. What could possibly be wrong with him, originally thought he was just constipated but vet said she didn’t think.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on February 4th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Tibbs! He is super cute! I agree with the ER Vet. Constipation is a symptom of something else not a primary disease. The most common cause of constipation is kidney disease or underlying intestinal disease like IBD or cancer. I recommend full blood work including urine and a T4. Tibbs should have an enema if he is severely constipated and should be on stool softeners to help him keep his stool soft long term. I would follow up with your normal Vet tomorrow. I hope this helps and I wish Tibbs the very best!

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