Can dehydration cause constipation in cats?
Yes. Low water intake is one of the most common contributors to feline constipation; stool that sits in the colon longer dries out and becomes harder to pass. Indoor cats on dry food are particularly prone, because kibble is only 6 to 10 percent water and they may not make up the rest at the bowl. The hydration fixes (adding wet food or stirring water into meals, moving the bowl to a calm spot, adding more stations) help with constipation prevention too. They don’t replace a vet visit if your cat is already constipated, but they’re the foundation for keeping things moving.
When to call a vet: if your cat hasn’t passed stool in more than 48 hours, is straining or seems uncomfortable, see your vet, since chronic constipation can become serious.
