6 Yr Old Cat W/Constipation

Question
I have a 6 year old cat that recently within the last two months has had a problem with pooping. I took her into the vet and she had an enema.  The vet wasn't sure why she'd all of a sudden have problems pooping.  I've noticed that she's pooping about once every two days.  It seems a little hard and looks like she is straining a bit to get it out. The last time she pooped there was one that was about 2 inches and three that were round and about an inch. I've also noticed that she's not coughing up any hair balls or, coughing a lot at all due to hair balls. I've read that hairballs can cause constipation.  The doctor wanted to put her on low residue which on trial she liked. But it would cost $60 a month. I have 5 cats and they all eat the same thing.  I've now put her on Hills Science Diet for senstaive stomachs to see how this will help (dry food).  I've also put her on Laxatone to see if that will help if it's from too much hair. She does groom a lot.   I'm wondering if there is something else I can give her to help with consitpation? This would be easier on her and I.  Is there something natural I can give her that would loosen up her stools?

I've also noted that on a spot by her right front leg area (pit) she's been licking and pulling on her fur, and have noticed tuffs of fur around the house.  There is a semi bald spot there. I was figuring it was from the dry air in the house and at the advise of a friend who runs an animal rescue put a little olive oil on that area to help.

Could this skin issue be causing the consitpation being that she's pulling a lot of hair out and possilby digesting it? Or are they seperate?

Thanks In Adavance!
Melissa

Answer
Hairballs can cause constipation! If she is licking alot, she may need something like a steroid shot to calm her skin down.

If she is having a problem with constipation, try adding 1 tbsp. mineral oil to her food daily.  If that doesn't help, ask your vet about a drug called cisapride.