Pax is an adorable and cuddly Maine Coon rescue who waltzed his way into his owners Rico and Rhema’s hearts. However in addition to his great personality, he also had some chronic medical conditions. Regardless, his new family welcomed him with open arms and hearts into their home where he slowly, but surely, became best friends with their other kitty Dez and dog Lilli.
Pax had been underweight his entire life. At his time of adoption he required surgery because he had stopped eating and was vomiting. It was discovered that he had a hair ball in his stomach that couldn’t be passed or brought up. During surgery, intestinal biopsies were taken to look for any other underlying causes for his poor weight gain. The biopsies revealed changes in the small intestine that could indicate a motility disorder preventing food and ingesta from moving through properly. After surgery he required medications to reduce the inflammation in his intestinal tract and to promote proper intestinal motility. He seemed to respond well, was gaining weight, and was ultrimately able to be weaned off of the medications.
However, like many other cat owners, recently they realized something wasn’t quite right with Pax. Though he had settled into his new home well, his mom and dad noticed Pax wasn’t using his litter box on the normal schedule anymore. Between working opposite shifts and busy days, they each had thought the other was cleaning his box. To their surprise, they had realized that Pax hadn’t pooped in about two days! Luckily Rico and Rhema were able to put 2 and 2 together and reached out to get Pax seen.
With the knowledge of Pax’s situation and diagnosis, our doctors began to work quickly on getting him more comfortable. X-rays confirmed the suspicion that he was constipated (having difficulty passing stool), so he was given an enema to help soften and move the stools out. He was started on an oral medication to help improve is intestinal motility as well. He responded well to treatment and slowly, but surely, he finally began to clear out! With what would usually be a messy stinky disaster to any outsider, the staff at Rock Bridge Animal Hospital celebrated Pax’s pooping!
From this event came one of our hospital’s favorite notes; our own Dr. Forbes celebrated by leaving a message for the technicians letting everyone know that indeed, “Pax is pooping :o.” Left untreated, constipation can result in an impaction because the stools are extremely hard and dry and cannot be passed. This can lead to stretching of the colon muscles to the point where they can no longer function properly. Fortunately Pax’s owners were able to recognize that he was in trouble and get him the care that he needed right away. Knowing your pet’s daily routine can help you to catch problems early. Care of your pets is our passion, but it always starts at home. If you ever notice a change in your pets behavior or routine, never hesitate to reach out and talk to one of our receptionists or assistants! From our hearts to your homes, happy June and give your pets an extra big hug from us! With love, Rock Bridge Animal Hospital