Constipation in Cats, The Manx Is At Risk

Constipation, which is difficulty passing stool (defecating), is a painfully common problem for cats.

Any cat can become constipated, but tail-less Manx cats often inherit a tendency to become constipated. While some Manx cats have normal bodies and just lack a tail, many Manx cats have abnormal bones, muscles, and nerves in their back ends. Cats with back end abnormalities—which may not be visible on the surface—cannot propel their feces out of the intestines. These cats hold stool for so long it fossilizes.

Manx cats with severely abnormal rumps can begin making fossils as kittens, but cats with only slight abnormalities may get though youth and middle age without a problem. Unfortunately, the Manx, like many cats, develop constipation as seniors.