Cat Not Defecating for a Day

It is not necessary to worry if a cat does not defecate for a day. The amount and frequency of a cat's defecation is closely related to its food intake. However, if the cat consistently does not defecate for a long period of time, owners should be extra cautious. It could be due to indigestion, and timely medical attention should be sought. During the cat's feeding process, it is essential to ensure balanced nutrition to maintain the cat's health.

Reasons for a Cat Not Defecating for a Day

It is a normal phenomenon for some cats not to defecate for a day, as they might have eaten less on that day, resulting in no feces production. Some cats may also experience stress reactions, such as when they are in a new environment or when strangers arrive at home. These cats may stop defecating, urinating, and eating, hiding in a dark corner. This situation will improve gradually as the cat adapts to its new environment.

Cat Stress Reaction Symptoms

Alert phase: The body undergoes a series of neurophysiological changes, emergency mobilization of internal resources, and is in a state of preparedness. This phase can be divided into the shock phase and the anti-shock phase. In the shock phase, symptoms such as lowered blood pressure, increased vascular permeability, decreased blood concentration, and decreased body temperature may occur. The manifestations of the anti-shock phase are opposite to those of the shock phase.

Resistance phase: At this stage, neurophysiological changes continue to occur, and the body utilizes resources to deal with various emergencies. Exhaustion phase: The body's hormones and essential trace elements are depleted, cells and tissues are destroyed, and post-traumatic stress disorder occurs. This stage occurs only when the stress factors are severe or persistent. If the situation continues to worsen, it will lead to death.

What to Do About a Cat's Stress Reaction

First, eliminate the cause of the stress, such as a cat receiving a vaccine at a hospital, or a cat newly arriving at a new home or having strangers visit. During this time, the cat may feel anxious and scared. The cat's familiar person can comfort it more, preferably by holding it or placing it in its own cage. Cover the cage with a towel to block the cat's view of the external environment, allowing it to stay in a familiar surroundings. Once the cat's mood has stabilized, offer it some small treats.