How to Diagnose and Treat Megacolon in Cats
Recognize possible causes., Track symptoms., Be prepared to answer some questions., Run some tests.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Recognize possible causes.
By knowing the potential causes of megacolon, you can help to better diagnose your cat.Although megacolon sometimes occurs as a primary condition, it usually comes the result of one or more of the following:
Colon muscles that do not contract normally Prolonged constipation Physical trauma Ingesting non-digestible items Neurological disorders -
Step 2: Track symptoms.
Pay attention to your cat's bathroom behavior.
If they have stopped defecating, appear to be having trouble doing so, or seem to be in abdominal pain, there is a chance that they could be suffering from megacolon.
If you notice such symptoms, you should seek veterinary care.
Any time your cat stops eating or seems unusually lethargic, seek help right away.Symptoms of megacolon include:
Difficulty defecating Pain while defecating, accompanied by wincing or meowing Blood in fecal matter Abdominal pain Loss of appetite Vomiting Defecating outside the litter box , When you visit your vet, plan to bring along some information.
In order to properly diagnose your cat, your vet will ask a series of questions.Be prepared to describe:
The complete medical history of the cat (to the best of your knowledge) What (if any) medications your cat is currently taking What symptoms you have noticed When these symptoms began If your cat has experienced any physical trauma , In order to determine what is going on with your pet, the vet will need to perform a series of tests.If your cat is showing symptoms of megacolon, your vet is likely to perform:
General physical examination Rectal examination X-rays Additional diagnostic tests (such as blood work, urinalysis, and/or ultrasound) -
Step 3: Be prepared to answer some questions.
-
Step 4: Run some tests.
Detailed Guide
By knowing the potential causes of megacolon, you can help to better diagnose your cat.Although megacolon sometimes occurs as a primary condition, it usually comes the result of one or more of the following:
Colon muscles that do not contract normally Prolonged constipation Physical trauma Ingesting non-digestible items Neurological disorders
Pay attention to your cat's bathroom behavior.
If they have stopped defecating, appear to be having trouble doing so, or seem to be in abdominal pain, there is a chance that they could be suffering from megacolon.
If you notice such symptoms, you should seek veterinary care.
Any time your cat stops eating or seems unusually lethargic, seek help right away.Symptoms of megacolon include:
Difficulty defecating Pain while defecating, accompanied by wincing or meowing Blood in fecal matter Abdominal pain Loss of appetite Vomiting Defecating outside the litter box , When you visit your vet, plan to bring along some information.
In order to properly diagnose your cat, your vet will ask a series of questions.Be prepared to describe:
The complete medical history of the cat (to the best of your knowledge) What (if any) medications your cat is currently taking What symptoms you have noticed When these symptoms began If your cat has experienced any physical trauma , In order to determine what is going on with your pet, the vet will need to perform a series of tests.If your cat is showing symptoms of megacolon, your vet is likely to perform:
General physical examination Rectal examination X-rays Additional diagnostic tests (such as blood work, urinalysis, and/or ultrasound)
About the Author
Christine Flores
Dedicated to helping readers learn new skills in home improvement and beyond.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: