Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My cat had an enema. Is it normal for her to be in pain and not eat?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Norwegian Forest Cat | Female | spayed | 12 years and 9 months old | 13 lbs

Our cat had a water enema yesterday. She’s home now, but no interest in water, food. Would she be in pain? She pooped on the couch- I’m assuming she didn’t realize. She just seems defeated. Are water enemas painful and is it normal for her to be out of sorts for a while?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Desrosiers

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on May 7th, 2020

Enemas can definitely be uncomfortable and may cause Sanoe to be a bit out of sorts/have a sore GI tract for a while. You can try a bland meal of some boiled chicken warmed up (or if she was given a prescription food to eat, that moistened or warmed up) as smell usually entices a cat to eat, and moistening the food can help increase water intake without having to drink as much. If she doesn't start eating, or return to more normal behavior after a day, or she seems to be worsening, letting your vet know and bringing her back in for a recheck is best.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button