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→Clinical Signs
==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
===Clinical Signs===
===Clinical Signs===
Cats with colonic impaction may be presented with
a history of reduced frequency of defecation or failure to
defecate for a period of time ranging from days to
weeks. The animal may have been observed to make
frequent but unsuccessful attempts to defecate and to
spend a prolonged time in the litter box. The cat may
also be presented because it is lethargic, inappetent,
anorexic and intermittently vomiting. These latter signs
may be due to the absorption of bacteria and toxins
through the damaged mucosal barrier in the dilated
colon. The vomiting reflex is also stimulated by
distension of the colon and irritation of the mucosa. The
animal may be in a crouched position indicative of
abdominal discomfort.
Although constipation is usually associated with
absence of defecation, the impacted faeces can irritate
the mucosa inducing secretion of fluid and mucus that
leaks around the colonic mass to give 'paradoxical diarrhoea'.
Chronic or persistent straining associated with
constipation may lead to perineal hernia or rectal prolapse
(Welches and others 1992).
===Laboratory Tests===
===Laboratory Tests===
===Diagnostic Imaging===
===Diagnostic Imaging===