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My cat with IBD is straining to poop. When should I call the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 5 years and 9 months old | 7 lbs

Maggie has irritable bowl disease. She used to poo all the time and today she hasnt been able to.. and its not because she hasnt tried.. as shes been constantly in her litter tray trying. Should i call my vet asap? Or see if she does anything ?

2 Answers

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 27th, 2017

Poor Maggie! You can try giving her a teaspoon of canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filing) or olive oil on some food tonight to see if that helps her poop. If she still isn't pooping in the morning, then I would have her seen by a vet.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I meant to add, if she appears very painful and is crying when she is trying to poop, then yes I would call your vet ASAP. I wouldn't want her to be in pain in all night from this, and the vet can give her a laxative or enema to try to help her poop. In addition, if you are very concerned about Maggie, it's certainly ok to call the vet now. I hope this helps!

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