Constipation can occur in dogs from time to time due to lack of fiber, inactivity, medications (particularly antacids ) and dehydration; other potential sources include eating inedible objects like grass, sand, hair, rocks socks or toys that clog their digestive tracts.
Never give your dog a laxative without consulting their veterinarian first. Many aren’t safe for dogs and could even prove fatal if administered incorrectly.
Contents
Pumpkin
Add canned pumpkin to your pet’s diet as an aid against both constipation and diarrhea, since its fiber and moisture-rich formula encourage normal bowel movements. Just be sure that it’s 100% pure canned pumpkin with no spices or added sweeteners added for best results.
Potassium, vitamin A and C can all be found here in ample supply, and the high fiber content helps add bulk to the stool while moisture softens it easily. Your pet should find this food extremely helpful!
Coconut Oil contains high amounts of antioxidants that may benefit the health of both skin and coat in pets, and should be fed as either an addition to their kibble diet, or given separately as a nutritional supplement twice per day for best results. As always, consult with a veterinarian regarding appropriate dosage and nutritional plans tailored specifically for your pet’s condition.
Mineral oil
Mineral oil can be an effective short-term remedy for constipation in dogs. By lubricating their intestines and encouraging bowel movements, mineral oil helps ease symptoms. But be careful: pouring mineral oil directly into their mouth could lead to aspiration pneumonia; instead mix it into their food for best results.
If your dog seems uncomfortable and is not pooping regularly, consult with a veterinarian immediately. He or she may suggest some home remedies such as adding pumpkin, wheat bran or psyllium to its diet as a means to ease constipation symptoms.
Constipated dogs require immediate veterinary attention as a bowel obstruction could be occurring, so make sure to visit the vet first before trying home remedies or laxatives that may not be appropriate for all breeds of dog. They will also offer advice about enriching their diet with fiber in order to prevent future constipation episodes.
Exercise
If your pup is constipated, be sure they get plenty of exercise. Fiber helps relieve constipation as it absorbs large quantities of water and forms soft stool when combined with waste products. While fiber is generally found in most pet food options, a diet lacking this ingredient could still result in constipation issues.
Exercise can help prevent constipation by speeding up digestion. Without the appropriate physical movement to keep things moving properly, dogs who don’t get enough exercise may become more prone to constipation than usual.
Constipation should always be treated with diet and lubricant changes; however, in cases of emergency and due to foreign objects entering their colon or intestines – like string, rubber bands, or plastic wrappers. A veterinarian may be needed in order to perform tests like X-Rays in order to diagnose what the cause may be.
Water
Constipation occurs when your dog experiences difficulty passing stool and/or feces on an irregular or infrequent basis, typically temporarily and can typically be treated at home; however, persistent constipation could indicate more serious health concerns and require professional veterinary advice to resolve.
Make sure your pup gets enough water. This will soften stools and ensure they pass smoothly through his colon, while preventing dehydration which may exacerbate constipation.
If your dog has been constipated for more than 48 hours, contact your vet immediately. Extended constipation could be an indicator of a more serious health problem such as blockage or tumor growth. If they’re straining to pass feces or straining to pass poop altogether, an enema can help ease passage by lubricating their rectum with lubricant from pharmacies; also the gentle formula makes this treatment much less uncomfortable on your pet’s stomach.
