Pet Can’t Poop? Here’s How to Help Your Furry Friend

Is your dog or cat struggling to go to the bathroom? Constipation is more common than you might think, especially in older pets, and it can make them uncomfortable, stressed, and even less active. The good news is there are simple, safe ways to get things moving again—like adding fiber, boosting hydration, encouraging exercise, and using natural remedies.

For pets who also deal with arthritic pain or digestive discomfort, I highly recommend Dr. Jones’ Ultimate CBD Formula for Dogs and Cats. This specially designed, all-natural CBD supplement doesn’t just ease joint pain—it also supports overall gut health, reduces inflammation, and makes it easier for your pet to stay active and comfortable. Many of the pets I work with, including my own, have shown remarkable improvement in mobility, appetite, and regularity when using this formula.

Give your dog or cat the relief they deserve while supporting their long-term health. With Dr. Jones’ Ultimate CBD Formula, you’re not just helping them poop—you’re helping them live a happier, healthier, and more comfortable life.

Pet Can’t Poop? Constipation Remedies That Work!

Any tips on helping an older pet with difficulty defecating? I get this question a lot, so here’s my quick answer:

1. Increase fluids—canned food works wonders.

2. Add fiber, like ground flaxseed or pumpkin.

3. Encourage regular exercise—walking stimulates colon contractions.

4. Address arthritic pain—our CBD for Dogs and Cats can help!
   Get it here: Dr Jones’ ULTIMATE CBD for Dogs and Cats

Some pets are just very prone to constipation, and it can be stressful for both them and you. Let’s dive into how to help at home.

Help for Constipated Dogs and Cats: Natural Relief at Home

Constipation isn’t just a human problem—our pets can suffer too. A healthy dog or cat should usually pass one to two normal stools daily. Signs your pet may be constipated include:

• Straining or crying while trying to defecate

• Hard, dry stools

• No bowel movement for 48 hours

Sound familiar? These signs are very similar to what we experience ourselves.

Why Pets Get Constipated

Constipation in pets can come from surprising causes:

• Dietary issues: Dogs who eat bones or cats who swallow too much hair while grooming.

• Age: Older pets often get constipated due to less activity and lower water intake.

• Breed/Body factors: Certain cats, like Manx, are prone to constipation. Male dogs with enlarged prostates may face colon obstruction.

• Odd habits: Dogs eating dirt, sand, or other indigestible materials.

Important: Don’t confuse constipation with other issues. Dogs may strain with diarrhea. Cats may strain from urinary obstruction or bladder infection. When in doubt, check carefully and call your veterinarian.

When Constipation Becomes Serious

Persistent constipation can progress to obstipation, especially in cats. This is when the colon is packed with dry, firm feces and loses its ability to contract. Symptoms include:

• Abdominal swelling

• Constant straining

• Loss of appetite

At this stage, veterinary intervention is necessary—usually enemas and medication.

At-Home Remedies for Constipation

For mild or occasional constipation, these are safe, effective remedies you can try at home:

1. Add Fiber

• Dogs: Ground flaxseed (1 tsp per cup of food) or Metamucil (½ tsp per 10 lbs daily)

• Cats: Canned pumpkin (1 tbsp twice daily)

2. Boost Hydration

• Add water to kibble.

• Offer canned food, tuna juice, or flavored water to cats.

• Always provide fresh water.

3. Encourage Exercise

• Regular walks for dogs.

• Play sessions for cats (chasing toys, laser pointers, or catnip mice).

4. Safe Natural Laxatives

• Vaseline: 1 tsp per 10 lbs, twice daily for 3–5 days

• Vitamin C: 500 mg twice daily (high doses act as a laxative)

• Cascara Sagrada: 10 mg per 10 lbs, once daily, short-term only

• Castor Oil: ½ tsp per 20 lbs, twice daily (use sparingly)

• Miralax: ¼ tsp per 10 lbs, once or twice daily—safe and effective for chronic constipation

• Slippery Elm: 1 capsule (400 mg) per 20 lbs, twice daily—forms a soothing gel for hard stools

When to Call Your Vet

If your pet hasn’t had a bowel movement in over 48 hours, is straining without success, or shows pain, loss of appetite, or bloating—seek veterinary help. While most constipation can be managed naturally, persistent issues should never be ignored.

Bottom Line

Most dogs and cats with occasional constipation improve with more fiber, fluids, and exercise. For stubborn cases, safe natural remedies like pumpkin, Miralax, or Slippery Elm can make all the difference.

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P.S. Constipation is often a sign of another underlying problem—diet, arthritis, or anal gland issues. In older pets, arthritic pain can make defecation difficult. Our pain-relieving cannabinoid, CBD, has helped hundreds of dogs and cats.

For pets who also deal with arthritic pain or digestive discomfort, I highly recommend Dr. Jones’ Ultimate CBD Formula for Dogs and Cats. This specially designed, all-natural CBD supplement doesn’t just ease joint pain—it also supports overall gut health, reduces inflammation, and makes it easier for your pet to stay active and comfortable. Many of the pets I work with, including my own, have shown remarkable improvement in mobility, appetite, and regularity when using this formula.

Give your dog or cat the relief they deserve while supporting their long-term health. With Dr. Jones’ Ultimate CBD Formula, you’re not just helping them poop—you’re helping them live a happier, healthier, and more comfortable life.