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Why is my cat struggling to poop after rectal prolapse surgery?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Male | unneutered | 2 years old | 8 lbs

My cat just recently had surgery to fix his prolapsed rectum. He is now trying to poop and is still strugglingto get anything out. Is this normal at the beginning of recovery? And only little poop is coming, hardly any. Is all of this normal for now until he is completely healed or should he be having an easier time going?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on November 24th, 2018

He should start having an easier time pooping but could be difficult at first due to the pain and/or swelling. If you aren’t giving any stool softeners right now, I would contact your vet and ask for some to help with recovery. They may also want to recheck his incision. You can also add some canned pumpkin (~1 teaspoon) to his diet twice a day to help make the stool pass more easily. I hope this helps.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 22nd, 2019
I am so sorry to hear that your pet is having recurrent rectal prolapse. If this is truly happening, then your best course of action is to have a consultation with a board certified surgeon on how to move forward. If you did not have a board certified surgeon do the first procedure, then this surely should be considered for the second one.

If she is not truly prolapsing all the way out and getting stuck. You may be able to manage this with a high fiber diet such as Royal Canin GI high fiber or another one prescribed by your vet. You can also try adding 1-2 tsp of canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) in her food daily for added fiber. This will help solidify her stools to help keep her from straining. I would also recommend having her tested for intestinal parasites, which is a common cause for straining in pets.

I do hope that you are able to get this resolved soon! Best of luck and take care.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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