Smaller, firmer poops are common on fresh food and are usually nothing to worry about. Straining, hard dry stools, or going much longer than usual between poops needs attention, and if it continues, please talk to your vet.
Why poops change on fresh food
Our meals are gently cooked from fresh ingredients without the fillers found in many dry foods, so pets often produce less waste. Many owners notice smaller, firmer, easier-to-pick-up stools, and sometimes fewer of them each day. That on its own is a normal change.
Normal, keep an eye, or call the vet?
| Normal | Keep an eye on it | Call your vet |
|---|---|---|
| Smaller, firm, well-formed stools | A little harder than usual | Straining with little or nothing coming out |
| Fewer poops a day than before | One day with no poop, otherwise happy | Very hard, dry stools, or much longer than usual between poops |
| Pet is bright and eating well | Drinking less than usual | Blood, pain, vomiting, swollen tummy or off food |
A cat straining in the litter box and passing little or no urine needs a vet the same day. It can look like constipation but may be a urinary problem.
What to try, most effective first
- Water, water, water. Keep fresh water in more than one spot and refresh it often. Many cats prefer a wide bowl or a running-water fountain.
- Add moisture. Pour a little Soluky bone broth over meals.
- Check the portion isn't too small. Less food in means less coming out: dogs, cats.
- Go easy on hard chews such as Chicken Feet or Lamb Trotters for a few days.
- Keep them moving. Regular walks and play help keep things regular.
Please don't give laxatives or human remedies without your vet's advice. Hot days make this more important: summer heat and hydration.
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