Why is my senior cat laying in the litter box and constipated?

Question

I recently moved into a new home and I’ve noticed a couple of things my 18 yr old cat is doing. She periodically visits the litterbox and lays down in it and will typically stay there anywhere from 5-15 mins. Also, she is drinking and eating normally and seems to be urinating normally, however, her stools are very small and shriveled. Should either of these be cause for concern? Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 18 years and 8 months old | 8.8 lbs

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

I prefer her to not lay in the litter box. She’s elderly and may be tired after going to the bathroom, or just doesn’t want to go too far from the box. I recommend getting a box with a towel or blanket in it and put it next to the litter box. Then she will have a warm comfortable place to lay, close to the box, and won’t get litter all over her. Yes I am concerned about the small hard stool. I recommend feeding wet food with added water in it because even though she’s drinking she may not be drinking enough. Also increasing the fiber in her diet by adding a teaspoon of canned pumpkin to each feeding will increase the bulk of the stool which will make it easier to pass. Elderly cats can get constipated from dry firm stool so having her go daily will prevent that. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Sugars.

Why is my senior cat laying in the litter box and constipated?

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