Your veterinarian may prescribe medication such as a laxative or stool softener, or may intervene with an enema, which may be done under anesthesia.

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You may try offering your cat the following to relieve his constipation — but only after you’ve gotten the okay from your vet:

• Canned cat food, low-sodium tuna or low-sodium chicken or beef stock to add moisture to your cat’s diet and create softer stools
• An omega-3 fatty acid supplement (fish oil) to add lubrication to his feces
• A hairball remedy (available at most pet stores)
• A higher-fiber diet, to create more stool. Do not try this with a cat who has a muscular inability to void feces, or one who is weak or dehydrated.
• Pumpkin, squash, psyllium husk or ground flax meal to provide more fiber