Definitely ask about the hair trim!

And there are products like Tonic-Lax and other malt-flavoured goops where one puts a bit of it on the cat's paw.

Ask your vet about using a bit of olive or canola oil(not too often)...Does Brodie get any wet food at all? If not, that could definitely help.

A call to your vet wouldn't cost like a visit does. See what you can find out.

hugs to you and Brodie

Catty1