What should I do if my cat has a prolapsed rectum? - briefly
If your cat has a prolapsed rectum, it is crucial to act quickly and calmly. Gently clean the area with warm water and apply petroleum jelly or K-Y jelly to keep it moist. Immediately contact your veterinarian for further instructions and prompt treatment.
What should I do if my cat has a prolapsed rectum? - in detail
If you notice that your cat has a prolapsed rectum, it is crucial to act swiftly and cautiously to ensure their health and well-being. A prolapsed rectum occurs when the inner lining of the rectum becomes exposed outside the body through the anus. This condition can be serious and requires immediate veterinary attention. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Remain Calm: It is essential to stay calm to avoid distressing your cat further. Cats are very perceptive and can sense when their owners are anxious, which may exacerbate the situation.
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Keep Your Cat Comfortable: Gently lift your cat and place them in a quiet, comfortable area where they will not be disturbed. Make sure the environment is clean to prevent infection.
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Do Not Attempt to Push the Prolapse Back In: It may seem intuitive to try and push the prolapsed tissue back into the rectum, but this can cause further damage and pain. The tissue is very delicate and can easily be torn or injured.
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Prevent Further Damage: To protect the exposed tissue from drying out or becoming contaminated, you can create a makeshift sling using a clean cloth or gauze. Gently wrap it around the prolapsed area to support it but do not apply any pressure. Ensure that the material is clean and non-abrasive.
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Keep Your Cat Hydrated: Offer your cat small amounts of water to keep them hydrated. Avoid giving food as this can stimulate bowel movements, which may exacerbate the prolapse.
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Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: A prolapsed rectum is a medical emergency that requires professional veterinary care. Call your vet immediately and explain the situation. They will likely ask you to bring your cat in as soon as possible for an examination and treatment.
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Transport Your Cat Carefully: When transporting your cat to the vet, use a carrier or a firm but comfortable blanket to ensure they do not move around too much, which could cause further damage to the prolapsed tissue.
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Follow Veterinary Instructions: Once at the veterinarian’s office, they will assess the extent of the prolapse and determine the best course of action. This may involve manual replacement of the prolapsed tissue under anesthesia, followed by a procedure called a colopexy to secure the rectum in place. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary.
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Post-Treatment Care: After your cat has received treatment, follow all post-operative instructions given by your vet. This may include administering medications, monitoring for signs of infection, and ensuring a quiet, stress-free environment for your cat to recover.
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Prevent Future Prolapses: In some cases, prolapsed rectums can be prevented by addressing underlying issues such as constipation or diarrhea. Regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet can help maintain your cat’s digestive health.
By taking these steps, you can provide the best possible care for your cat while awaiting professional veterinary treatment.