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By Claire Dodds
Life & Trends Reporter
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A video showing a cat owner massaging their pet’s belly as part of a “nightly ritual” to relieve chronic constipation has prompted curiosity—and skepticism—from viewers.
The brief clip, posted by TikTok user gusbepoopin, shows the owner gently rubbing the cat’s stomach while monitoring whether it results in a bowel movement.
On-screen text reads: “Nightly ritual to cure my cat’s chronic constipation,” while the caption adds: “He loves it. Follow along to see if today is a Poop Day or a No Poop Day!”
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The footage has been watched 8.2 million times in two days, with many viewers questioning both the method and the cat’s apparent enjoyment of the process.
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Some TikTok users speculated about the cat’s motivations amid almost 6,000 comments.
“I’m not saying he’s deliberately retaining his stool so that you give him all this extra attention, but the color of his coat and the purring tells me it’s not outside the realm of possibilities,” one person mused.
Another asked, “is the chanting clinically necessary,” referencing the soothing sounds the owner’s made while rubbing the cat’s belly.
A pundit added, “I'd love to be able to read his mind right now.”
'Common woe'
While the video was shared for amusement, feline digestive issues like constipation are a recognized concern among veterinarians.
According to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, “Constipation is another common woe for the cat digestive system,” noting it can stem from dehydration, pain or problems with muscle movement in the colon.
The same source warns that persistent symptoms should not be dismissed.
“Recurring constipation, however, is no laughing matter,” the company states, advising pet owners to consult a veterinarian if issues continue.
Royal Canin similarly emphasizes the seriousness of the condition, stating that, “a cat is constipated if it’s unable to pass stools (feces) or if it only defecates infrequently.”
The company adds that when stool remains in the colon too long, “it dehydrates and becomes hard, which causes the cat discomfort.”
Experts also note that constipation can signal underlying health problems. Royal Canin says both constipation and more severe cases, such as obstipation, “need immediate treatment,” and may indicate issues ranging from diet to obstructions.
The viral TikTok does not indicate whether the cat has been evaluated by a veterinarian, but some viewers expressed concern about relying on home remedies alone.
Others, however, focused on the cat’s calm demeanor during the massages, suggesting the ritual may provide comfort regardless of its medical effectiveness.
Veterinary Guidance
Constipation in cats is not uncommon, particularly among older animals or those with limited water intake. Veterinary guidance typically includes increasing hydration, adjusting diet or, in some cases, using medication.
As the clip continues to circulate, it has sparked a mix of amusement and debate, with viewers weighing in on whether the routine is a helpful intervention, or simply an unusual bonding moment between pet and owner.
Newsweek has reached out to gusbepoopin for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
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