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Section: Overview
Megacolon is a condition of extreme dilation and poor motility of the colon, usually combined with accumulation of fecal material and the inability to evacuate it. The majority of cases (62 percent) are "primary" or "idiopathic," which means there is no obvious reason for the condition. Some cases are "secondary," meaning that something has interfered with normal defecation for a prolonged period of time, causing chronic constipation, with megacolon occurring as a sequela. Recent studies have shown that cats with idiopathic megacolon have a defect in the ability of the muscle in the colon to contract. Megacolon can occur in any age, breed, or sex of cat, however, most cases are seen in middle aged cats (average age is 5.8 years). Most cases are in males (70 percent males, 30 percent females). Megacolon can be a frustrating and difficult condition.
Colitis is an inflammation of the colon, usually resulting in diarrhea. It can occur suddenly and resolve without treatment or may persist for several weeks. In chronic cases, various tests may be needed...
Proctitis is an inflammation of the rectum, which is the last part of the large intestine just before the anal opening. It can be caused by parasites, trauma, allergies, disease, tumors or polyps, or it...
Pseudocoprostasis is a condition that occurs when fecal matter becomes matted in the hair surrounding the anal opening. Once this occurs, the passage of additional feces becomes quite difficult and complete...
Although it is not unusual for a normal cat to have a bout or two of constipation over the course of her life, it is not normal or acceptable to have recurring problems.
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