Constipated Kitty

Question
I have a seemingly constipated cat.

Brief history: she is 13 years old, grew up on a fishing boat. While I was out of town the person watching her reportied that she was throwing up constantly and that she was trying to defecate (she was squating wherever she stood) but only small drips would come out.
Later that day the vomitting stopped and she was allowing people to touch her without yelling. That was Monday. Today (Friday, same week) she is still squating, politely in her box however. I did see her successfully go last night, so I know she can. Also she is eating, but not as much as normal; and her behavior is normal. I have only seen her successfully go the one time and after every attempt she goes and cleans herself, which is making her anus red and raw. I just saw her unsuccessfully squat again, so I went and got a laxative and an eyedropper to administer it. Is that a good idea?

thanks,
Scott

Answer
Hi Scott!  You never want to use a human laxative on a cat.  It can cause them to become very, very sick.  You can, however, call your local veterinarian. They sell something called CatLax, which is 100% safe and effective and is very inexpensive.  You may want to have her checked by your veterinarian as well.  Older cats can develop colon and GI problems, where medication may be needed.  You also want to be sure that she didn't get into anything toxic while she was away from you.  She is showing signs of Mega Colon, which is very common in older cats.  Upon your veterinarian's diagnosis, cisapride and cefulac syrup are two medications that take care of this problem.
I hope this is helpful and please let me know how she does!
Hilary