Konsyl psyllium fiber

[drjsiems]

Boomer quit eating and his vet and I could not figure out why. The only change I can think of was that his vet switched him from Miralax to this Konsyl product for his occasional, but recurring constipation. So I quit putting Konsyl in his food, and he immediately began eating just fine - very well as a matter of fact. Does one know if this product has side effects that would make a cat sick or at least make a cat feel uncomfortable enough to stop eating?

Thanks,
Judy

 

[Lisa and Merlyn (GA)]

I dont know about this specific product..but generally speaking cats are not designed to handle fiber very well. I do know it can help some cats with constipation but I think it can also make it worse in some cats. In humans the idea is to bulk up the stool and pull water in and I guess humans can handle that(its an osmotic like miralax) but IMHO, a constipated cat really does not need MORE to poop out. Thats why I prefer the miralax because it softens but doesnt add bulk.

Its possible he didnt like the gritty texture it gave the food, or he felt too full after eating only a little?

 

[drjsiems]

Hi Lisa,

I just got a post from another group I belong to who said just about the same thing that you did about fiber making a cat feel to full and that sometimes it can makes things worse - that sounds like what was going on with Boomer. I am back using Miralax as he has never had a problem with that product. Now I see why according to what you have said about it. Things are back to normal around here. It brings a tear to my eye to see him happily eat again. Another case where the vet was not correct - at least in Boomer's case. I don't know where I would be without you guys. You all have helped Jake and Boomer so much - that's why they are so old (20 and 13). I will give my vet the heads up on this as she is an avid fan of adding Konsyl to kitties' diet. Fortunately, she always listens to what I have to say unlike others before her that I have had to fire. Thanks much!

Judy, Jake, & Boomer