I have a 10 year old male cat that has had colon problems for a few years, he has to keep going for ennimas because they say his smooth muscle is not pushing the poop out so it sits and gets hard and he can”t pass it. They want to take his colon out. Please any suggestion would be appreciated.
Laurie
Hi there. Have you tried other drugs such as Metoclopramide and Lactulose? Those seem to help some of my patients. Of course, your pet’s history might not fit with these drugs, so ask your local veterinarian.
Dr. Mark Helvie
Dahlonega Veterinary Hospital
Georgia
Before you consider that radical a surgery there are other options to try. Colectomies rarely have to be done anymore because of the drug Cisapride. It helps the body to evacuate the bowels. That used along with osmotic laxatives like Lactulose usually allow these cats to do OK without surgery. I’ve had clients cats survive years on these meds alone.You usually have to experiment a little with the Lactulose until you find the dose that works best. Good luck.
Virginia Leis, DVM
Michigan
Has a vet tried to put your cat on periactin (Cisapride)? It is a smooth muscle stimulant for cats that have constipation. If your cat has severe megacolon, surgery may be a wise choice, but please find a qualified, experienced feline surgeon, as this is a delicate operation. I have seen several cats do quite well both with medical management, and post operatively, but make sure that possible surgical outcomes, including complications like diarrhea, are thoroughly discussed with you before you make that decision. Good luck!
Lori L Coughlin, DVM
Arlington Heights, IL
“Anyone who has accustomed himself to regard the life of any living creature as worthless is in danger of arriving also at the idea of worthless human lives.” Albert Schweitzer
“I’m aging like fine wine – I’m becoming complex and fruity!”
A sub total colectomy (the surgery you describe) is an absolute last resort, though in some cases may be necessary. I suggest you feed only canned food like Hills WD. Ask your vet about using stool softeners like Lactulose and Pumpkin. Also ask about an important medication called Cisapride which often helps improve that smooth muscle problem you mentioned.
Jonathan Grant, DVM
The Scaredy Cat Hospital
Phoenix, AZ