Using olive oil to help a constipated cat is one of those well-known home remedies, and it’s a very effective solution for a cat suffering from painful constipation.
If you’re here because you want to know, ‘how much olive oil should I give my cat for constipation?’ I can answer this for you.
Along with helping you understand how to tell if your cat is constipated and some of the common causes of feline constipation.
Signs Your Cat Is Constipated
If you have an indoor cat you will have a good idea how often you clean poop out of their litter box and be able to work out how long it’s been since they’ve had a bowel movement.
If it’s been more than 24 hours and they are showing some of the signs below, it’s very likely they are constipated and in need of your help.
If you have an outdoor cat or are concerned about your kitty, here are some of the symptoms and signs to look out for that may indicate your cat is constipated:
- Meowing and crying when trying to poop
- Frequent visits to their litter box without pooping
- Finding small, hard poops
- Not eating
- Lethargic behavior
- Vomiting and retching
- Visible signs of pain and discomfort
What Causes Cats to Be Constipated?
Some of the common reasons cats become constipated include:
Dehydration – Cats can be fussy when it comes to where they drink from and how often. Being dehydrated is a common cause of constipation.
You should always have fresh water available for your cat. You will get to know your cat best and their own preferred method of drinking.
If you think they are not drinking enough try moving where their water is situated. You can also try using a different shape bowl, or try a water fountain.
Cats like running water and are usually more inclined to drink when water is moving.
Diet – I’m sure you are providing a good balance of wet and dry cat food, it’s more likely to be the food your cat finds outside of their meals that’s the culprit.
If your cat likes to steal scraps of your food this can cause constipation. Human foods that have a lot of preservatives, high salt content, and are high in fat are the worst for cats.
I’ve covered various foods that are fine in moderation throughout this blog. Always check that the foods they have access to are OK for them before giving some to them.
Underlying health issue – If your cat is becoming constipated on a regular basis there may be an underlying health issue that needs addressing.
Tumors are one such issue that can cause an obstruction in their digestive tract. You should visit the vet if you have any concerns or your cat is becoming constipated too often.
Litter box problems – The last thing you want it your cat pooping outside of their litter box. But at the same time if they are refusing to use their box and becoming constipated you have a bigger problem.
If your cat hasn’t been using their box try and find out why. Maybe it’s the scent or the feel of the litter, the box is too dirty, something has freaked them out at that location…
Some cats will hold out on pooping if they are not comfortable finding somewhere to poop. Their stool will harden and they’ll become constipated.
How Much Olive Oil Should I Give My Cat for Constipation?
Half a tablespoon should be enough for cats with mild constipation. You can use as much as a whole tablespoon for larger cats.
Mix the olive oil a small amount of their favorite wet food. Trying to spoon feed a cat is not a good idea.
If they are not eating and there is no chance of them eating it with their food try using a dropper.
However, if you’ve ever tried to get a cat to eat something they don’t want you’ll know all too well how difficult it is.
You know your cat best. All you can do is try and get them to eat the olive oil without stressing them out.
If it’s not possible you’ll need to get them to a vet and they will advise the best course of treatment.
If you do get your cat to eat some olive oil they should have a bowel movement within a few hours of eating olive oil.
If not, or if your cat keeps becoming constipated over the following days you need to take them to a vet for a professional evaluation.
Final Thoughts
Olive oil is only a short-term solution for occasional bouts of constipation. It’s a good idea to try it however as it’s a perfectly safe and effective way to help loosen their stool and stimulate a bowel movement.
But do keep in mind that if the problems persist there may be an underlying issue, so you should get your cat seen by a vet.
Half to 1 tablespoon of olive oil should be enough to help a constipated cat and you should see them pooping within a few hours.
Whenever my cat gets constipated, I’ve always sprinkled a little Benefiber (any soluble fiber would probably work) in a spoonful of a meat baby food. For those without baby experience, get the #2 jar of a meat. Chicken and turkey is always good, but I occasionally use ham or beef. Only one cat I’ve ever had wouldn’t eat this meaty paste treat.
Just use the jar in 2-3 days, and refrigerate after opening it. Be careful when heating in a microwave!! 5 seconds is good, and stir it before you put your finger in it. It can be hotter inside, and you don’t want to risk burning your cat’s mouth. Sprinkle a tiny bit of fiber on top and mix on a plate. I mix a small area in the jar, and scoop it out on a spoon for my cat.
At 15, she has been doing well using unflavored soluble fiber every few days to stay regular. Trying to find out why she is constipated so easily is harder when you have 3+ cats and a minimal budget. My vet says it’s fine as long as it continues to help, but I keep her posted.