Summarize the following:
If your cat is constipated, you may notice her repeatedly enter the litter box, squat to defecate, but fail to pass any feces. Your cat may strain and vocalize (meow, cry, yowl) during these attempts. Other symptoms can include low energy, loss of appetite, throwing-up foam or undigested food, and abdominal pain. Sometimes, you can even feel a large hard lump of feces if you gently push on your cat's abdomen. Signs of constipation can look similar to signs of a urinary blockage, which is an emergency that can quickly become life threatening. If you suspect your cat has been straining to urinate, or if you have not seen any urine in the litter box in more than 12 hours, take your cat to the vet to rule out a urinary obstruction. Tumors and foreign objects like hair, bones, and plant material can obstruct the passage of feces. Sometimes diet can play a role in constipation. If your cat has a history of constipation, you might add canned food for extra moisture or enrich the cat's diet with psyllium. Metabolic or endocrine disorders like dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or obesity may also cause constipation. Neurological problems from spinal cord disease, pelvic injuries, or primary nerve dysfunction can cause constipation in some cats. Megacolon may develop when feces is impacted in colon and colon no longer pushes contents along. You can try an enema at home if your cat is mildly constipated (less than 2 to 3 days) or when constipation is not chronically observed. If the case is more severe or you think your cat may have a more complicated disorder, seek veterinary care. Your cat may have a more complicated disorder if you notice changes in water intake, very low energy level, severe vomiting, or a complete loss of appetite. Sometimes, a constipated cat might be slightly less hungry from feeling full or from the discomfort of being constipated, but may still be willing to eat. Attempt an enema at home only if your cat is docile and gentle. She shouldn't have other underlying painful or medical conditions like fractures, arthritis, and kidney problems. One potential advantage of giving an enema at home is that your cat is in a more familiar place and may be calmer. You may want to have a second person present to help gently restrain your cat. Your cat may still be uncooperative and might scratch or bite you. Don't excessively restrain your cat if she is fighting back.
Watch for signs of constipation. Try to identify the cause of constipation. Consider administering an enema at home only in cases of mild, occasional constipation. Take your cat's temperament into account.