Constipated Dog or Cat? Understanding Pet Constipation

I was recently asked this: What I can do for my older cat who keeps having problems with constipation? A common problem.

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1. MORE fluid

2. Canned Food- which means increased fluid

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What is Constipation in Pets?

Constipation is defined as difficulty in defecation and infrequent bowel movements. Healthy dogs and cats usually have 1-2 stools per day. The common signs of constipation include straining or crying when passing stool, and producing hard, dry stools. A lack of bowel movement for 48 hours is also a sign of constipation, which is similar to symptoms experienced by humans.

Causes of Constipation in Pets

The reasons for constipation vary widely. Dogs often become constipated after eating bones, while older pets, especially cats, may suffer due to decreased activity and lower fluid intake. Certain breeds, like Manx cats, are more prone to constipation. In male dogs, an enlarged prostate gland can obstruct the colon, leading to constipation. Additionally, cats that excessively groom themselves may ingest too much hair, and dogs that eat non-food items like dirt and sand can also become constipated.

Diagnosing Constipation

It’s crucial to confirm that your pet is actually constipated, as dogs can also strain due to diarrhea, and cats might strain from urinary tract infections or obstructions. Always check your pet’s litter box to ensure they are urinating, and if unsure, consult your veterinarian.

Chronic Constipation: Obstipation

When pets are continuously constipated, they may develop a condition called obstipation, commonly seen in cats. This involves the colon becoming dilated and filled with dry, hard feces, causing discomfort, abdominal distension, straining, and loss of appetite. This severe form of constipation requires veterinary intervention, including enemas and medication.

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At-Home Remedies for Constipation

Dietary Fiber

Adding fiber to your pet’s diet helps normalize stool consistency. For dogs, ground flax seed is beneficial (1 tsp per cup of dog food) and Metamucil (1/2 tsp per 10 lbs of body weight daily). For cats, canned pumpkin is effective (1 tbsp twice daily).

Fluid Intake

Ensuring adequate water intake is essential. Consider adding water to dry food or offering milk or tuna juice to encourage drinking. For cats, especially those prone to constipation, feeding canned food can help increase fluid intake.

Regular Exercise

Exercise stimulates bowel movements. Maintain regular walks for dogs and engage cats with toys and activities like chasing a catnip mouse.

Laxatives

• Vaseline: Safe for preventing hairballs and as a laxative in cats (1 tsp twice daily per 10 lbs for 3-5 days).
• Vitamin C: Can act as a laxative at higher doses (500 mg twice daily).
• Cascara Sagrada: Available as a dried herb, tea, or tincture, typically given at 10mg per 10 lbs once daily, effective within 6-8 hours.
• Castor Oil: Stimulates intestinal muscle movement but should be used cautiously (½ teaspoon per 20 lbs twice daily).
• Miralax: Effective for chronic constipation in cats and dogs (1/4 teaspoon per 10 lbs once or twice daily).

Constipation can significantly affect your pet’s health and quality of life. If you notice signs of constipation, try the recommended home remedies and consult your veterinarian if the condition persists or worsens. Regular monitoring and preventive care can help maintain your pet’s digestive health and overall well-being.

P.S. Constipation is usually a sign of another underlying problem.

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