About Dog Constipation
Dog constipation is a condition in which the animal has difficulty in eliminating solid waste from the body. When the dog does finally have a bowel movement, the feces is usually hard and dry. Dog constipation can cause great abdominal discomfort as the condition causes the dog to strain. Dog constipation can be caused by a lack of fiber or water in the diet, prolonged lack of exercise, stress, anxiety, and consuming foreign materials such as cloth, hair, trash or dirt. Dog constipation can also be caused by a parasite infestation.
While dog constipation is not usually sign of a serious condition, in some cases, it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition such as an intestinal obstruction, infected anal glands, neurological disease, or metabolic and endocrine disease.
Treating Dog Constipation with Laxatives
If your pet has not had a bowel movement in more than two days and he appears lethargic, won't eat, vomits frequently or you notice blood in his stool, you should visit your vet immediately to discuss aggressive treatment options. If your dog has a simple case of constipation and he's feeling fine otherwise, there are a number of laxatives and home treatment options available. If your dog has a mild case of constipation, it's still a good idea to contact your vet. Your vet may suggest laxatone (one of the oldest laxative treatments for cats and dogs), lactulose solution syrup (prescription liquid), lax air (emollient laxative with essential vitamins, fatty acids, and iron, or an enema.
Natural and Over the Counter Dog Laxative Treatments for Constipation
In some cases, a natural or over the counter remedy will do the trick to alleviate symptoms of dog constipation. In small doses, milk of magnesia can be effective as well as canned pumpkin. You can add canned pumpkin to your dog's meal based on weight. Ask your vet about recommended amounts. Wheat bran is also a good remedy. Adding wheat bran to your dog's meal can help your dog produce a bowel movement, but it can also help keep him regular long after his bout with constipation is over.