Lactulose can be used in cats that are unable to eliminate fecal matter.
Lactulose is a laxative medication made from a combination of two sugars. Although this medication is labeled for humans only, the use of lactulose for cats is not uncommon. Cats are prone to a type of constipation called megacolon, in which the colon becomes impacted and enlarged. Giving a cat with this condition is usually an effective treatment. The frequency and size of the dose are based on the condition and size of the cat.
A prescription for lactulose typically requires a visit to the vet.
A cat suffering from megacolon will have a lot of fecal matter in its colon. You are unable to pass some or all of your stool, which causes your colon to stretch and enlarge as it fills with waste. Since lactulose is not absorbed in the small intestine, but passes intact to the large intestine, it can sometimes provide effective relief for this condition.
Cats taking lactulose may need to take the drug for the rest of their lives.
Another use of lactulose for cats is the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. This condition is related to liver problems, but it actually affects the central nervous system. Cats with this condition can experience a wide variety of symptoms, including seizures, blindness, changes in urine output and color, and vomiting. When a cat with this condition is treated with lactulose, it shows a significant improvement in its general health.
It is not uncommon when lactulose is used for cats that affected animals will need to take this medication for the rest of their lives. Hepatic encephalopathy is caused by a physical deformity of the cat’s blood purification system. The symptoms can be treated, but in most cases the cat cannot be cured. Continued use of this medication helps control the neurological symptoms of this condition, so it must be used daily.
Megacolon may require continued use of lactulose for cats. Although not caused by any kind of birth defect, once the colon is distended it doesn’t work as well as it should. This can easily lead to recurring constipation. Regular treatment can prevent the problem from recurring, so it should be used daily at the lowest dose that provides relief.
There are some important considerations when using lactulose for cats. This medicine can have serious consequences, even fatal, if the cat is diabetic, since it is essentially concentrated sugar. Cats receiving insulin need to adjust their insulin when taking lactulose to avoid diabetic complications. It is usually only available by prescription from a veterinarian because it can have harmful side effects if not used correctly. Not all animals can take lactulose and it must be used carefully to avoid serious consequences.