Like humans, your feline buddy may often face constipation. It happens due to the imbalance of proper nutrients in diets. Especially the lacking of animal protein and fiber can cause constipation. Feeding fiver and protein-enriched cat food helps to fight against constipation. But what are the best dry cat food to prevent constipation?
Unfortunately, my lovely cat Bella had suffered from chronic constipation. I consulted with an experienced vet and got some recommended dry cat foods. Those cat foods work like magic to prevent my feline’s constipation.
I am excited to share the list with you so that you can protect your cat’s health. In this guide, I will review on top five best high-fiber dry cat foods for constipation. So, let’s explore right now!
Our Top Picks on Best Dry Cat Food
Best for Perfect Digestion– Hill’s Science Dry Cat Food
Best for a better immune system– ONE Natural Dry Cat Food
Best for Kitten stomach problems– Beyond High Protein Kitten Food
Best for sensitive stomach– Purina Gentle Dry Cat Food
Best Dry Cat Food with High Fiber and Animal Protein
I have written this guide on my experience and veterinarian recommendation. I tested Most of the products and got the best results for my cats. So, let’s explore!
1) Hill’s Science Dry Cat Food for Perfect Digestion
Specification
• Dimension: 16 x 12 x 4.5 inches
• Weight: 13 Pounds
Hill’s Science Dry Cat food is the perfect solution for an upset digestive system. It is made from whole oats, pumpkin, chicken and brown rice. Whereas whole oats and chicken contains higher fiber and protein for easy digestion.
Besides, pumpkin contains multivitamins and fiber. Moreover, the blend of activation and prebiotics makes stool soften and regular.
Using Experience:
It was the first recommendation from the vet. And it was fruitful in preventing my cat’s constipation quickly. In the meantime, my cat Bella liked the flavor so much. Whenever I opened the pack, she came to me with excitement.
Pros:
- Hill’s Science Dry Cat Food is clinically proven and vet-recommended
- It is available in two flavors and three size
Cons:
- The leftover Hill’s Science Dry Cat Food smelled bad quickly
2) Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food
Specification
• Dimension: 4.4 x 19.25 x 23.75 inches
• Weight: 22.3 Pounds
Purina ONE Natural dry cat food is made to improve the feline immune system. When it improves the immune system, the digestive system can automatically improve. The all-natural ingredient is used in this dry food. The perfect balance of real salmon, vitamins, minerals and protein makes it ideal for cat health.
Additionally, the manufacturer includes Microbiome and prebiotic fiber in this food to prevent stomach problems like gas, vomiting and constipation.
Using Experience:
I am very pleased with this product because my cat liked the taste and flavor. So, she always put food in the bowl. My vet has said to feed this dry food whenever my cat is sick with a weak immune system.
Pros:
- Found in five individual packets (small, medium, large)
- Available in both salmon and chicken flavor
- Ideal for preventing constipation and improving the immune system
Cons:
- There is no automatic closing system in the packet
- It is mandatory to store it in an air-tight box to keep it fresh
3) Purina Beyond High Protein Kitten Food
Specification
• Dimension: 13.26 x 7.78 x 3.29 inches
• Weight: 3 Pounds
Purina Beyond is a dedicated food for kittens for 3-4 weeks. However, remember to add an equal part of normal water as the kitten can’t chew solid. This would be a blessing when a little kitten has a constipation problem. It is made with a gentle combination of high fiber, chicken protein and 15 special nutrients that support mother milk.
Using Experience:
I didn’t use this as I do not have a little kitten. But my friend shared with me about this tasty and healthy dry cat food. I am amazed that such excellent cat food is also available for kittens.
Pros:
- Smaller size that is easy to mix with water
- Supportive as a mother milk nutrient
- Available in two different sizes
Cons:
- The sealing system of the bag is not good
4) PURINA GENTLE DRY CAT FOOD FOR SENSITIVE STOMACH
Specification
- Package Dimension: 3.5 x 13 x 20 inches
- Weight: 3 pounds
Is your feline facing frequent stomach problems? Then, Purina Gentle Dry cat food is the best item for your feline. It is a two-in-one solution for upset stomachs and healthy, shiny skin. Purina Gentle is specially formulated to support a sensitive stomach. Containing ample protein, minerals, vitamins, and probiotics helps to make the digestive system smoother. The main parts of this food are turkey and salmon.
Using Experience:
I have fed this to my cat Jasper for severe constipation and flatulence. Good to know that I have got excellent results from this cat food. My feline loves the flavorful taste of Turkey chicken.
Pros:
- Best for both happy tummy and healthier skin
- Complete balanced nutrients for adult cat
Cons:
- It is available in only one larger size
What are the signs of constipation in a cat?
The most common sign of feline constipation is an empty litter box. Suppose the litter box stays empty for more than 36 hours. If you notice so, then make sure that your feline is facing constipation.
Straining:
A cat with well digestive system generally feels comfort to go for pooping. But a constipated cat will make noise, screaming and unhappy sounds when pooping. It means your feline is struggling to poop.
Decreased defecation:
Notice the litter box once every 24 hours. A healthy cat should poop at least once this time. If you notice there have no poop, then think about the feline constipation. Also, notice how much time your feline spends in the litter box.
Liquid faeces:
Liquid faeces are another symptom of constipation in cats. If you notice liquid faces in the litter box, make sure about constipation.
What Feature Should Have into constipated cat food?
Fiber:
Fibre-rich food is most important to soften and makes poop smaller. Choose your feline food with rice bran, pumpkin, vegetables, oats and animal protein. These foods contain enough soluble and insoluble fiber to prevent constipation.
Moisture:
Ensure your feline food has enough moisture. Otherwise, cats cat get dehydrated, which leads to constipation. So, provides them with moisturized food that contains a large amount of minerals.
Probiotics:
Probiotics help to increase the short-chain fatty acid. As a result, the feces can easily soften and shorten. There is vet-recommended dry cat food with specialized probiotics. Find out vet-recommended cats for their constipation.
Protein and calories:
A constipated cat requires the highest minerals fiber enrich food. In the meantime, they should take enough protein and calories to ensure proper nutrients.
Avoid allergens:
Must avoid allergens-based cat food when your cat is constipated. Besides, it is recommended to feed your feline less allergenic cat food.
INGREDIENT FOR CONSTIPATED CAT FOOD
What is the harmful food for a constipated cat?
Caffeine:
Caffeine-based food like chocolate, coffee and tea can cause constipation. Caffeinated food can sometimes lead a cat to the poisonous effect.
Allium vegetables:
Herbs and vegetables like onions and garlic are responsible for your cat’s constipation and kidney disease.
Specific Fruits:
Avoid Grapes, raisins, and citrus fruit for feline. This fruit can cause kidney disease and constipation problems. But you can provide them with mineral-based fruits like watermelon, apples, strawberries and bananas.
Raw food:
Raw meat, eggs and dough can easily upset the digestive system. So, avoid feeding your cat any raw food.
FAQs:
What is the quick way to relieve constipation in a cat?
You can apply the following techniques to relieve constipation in a cat.
- Stimulate your cat to poop by feeding more fibre-rich food
- Please encourage them to take enough water in multiple ways
- Make water fountains or dripping faucets to increase the drinking
- Give a gentle massage to their lower belly
How long can a cat go without pooping?
The longevity of a cat go without pooping is vary cat to cat. However, it is recommended to consult with a vet within 48 hours. Here are the symptoms that indicate the necessity of consulting a vet.
- Spending longer time in the litter box
- Lack of appetite
- Laziness
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
How serious is constipation?
Constipation in cats can be serious in the entire digestive system. Let’s know in brief what may happen. This leads to getting a megacolon; damage inside the anal area and strain on the internal organs can occur from constipation. So, make the right decision to protect your feline’s life.
What to give a cat for constipation?
Ensures fiber and moisture enrich food to the feline’s diet. You can give them specially formulated dry or wet cat food. Besides, adding boiled, mashed pumpkin or olive oil would be great to prevent constipation in cats.
Does grain-free food help with constipation in cats?
Grain-free food is not a big deal for a constipated cat. For example, beans and peas are grain-free but can cause constipation in cats. The core recommendation is to avoid carbohydrate-based food for constipated cats. Feeding higher animal protein-based moisture food can help a lot.
What does megacolon mean in cat poop?
Megacolon may occur from chronic constipation. A cat with a megacolon can poop hard and large often. If it happens to your feline more frequently, consult a vet soon. Otherwise, it may impact on their digestive system.
- Cat discomfort with meowing profusely
- Hard, dry, and small droppings
- bloated abdomen
- Lack or loss of appetite
- Straining on the litter box
- Vomiting and nausea
- Hunching over
Final Opinion:
I am ending my guide on “best dry cat food for constipation.” I have tried my best to share the constipation issues of my feline friend. I have reviewed on top four vet-recommended dry cat foods. As I have tested all the foods, I recommend trying these. You will be thankful to me for sharing the excellent resources.
