Constipation in a dog
Constipation in a dog
is a nuisance just as it is for a human, but there are plenty
of dog constipation home remedy options to choose from.
What Is Constipation?
Constipation is not a disease, but a symptom that something
is wrong in the digestive system.
Matter does not pass through the colon and get expelled
at the rear end as easily as it should. This can lead to
pain, discomfort and toxicity in the colon.
The first thing to recognize is that a dog (just like a human)
is not necessarily constipated if he does not poop every day.
However, if he seems to have trouble, if it is painful, or
if his feces are small, hard and dry, then this probably needs
some attention.
Causes of constipation in dogs
Constipation in dogs can be caused by several factors.
1. Poor diet
A diet of cooked, processed, canned meat is not always
the best thing for a dog. Especially bad for the dog is
feeding him scraps from the dinner table or 'treats' like
chocolate. Cut them out and try feeding him more raw meat
and even raw vegetables for a while.
Also, be sure that he always has plenty of fresh water
to drink. If you use dried dog foods, try moistening them
with water before giving them to the dog.
2. Insufficient exercise
A dog needs to be walked twice a day to stay healthy. A
younger dog can be helped through most digestive problems
by being encouraged to run and fetch. An older dog may not
be up to such strenuous exercise. Still, a twice-daily walk
should help, even if it is slow.
3. Not going out when he wants
to
If a well-trained
dog is not able to go outside when he needs to poop,
he will try to contain himself and this can lead to problems.
Ignoring signals like this means that the reflex system
gets weaker. So try to take your dog out immediately after
his morning and evening meals, when he most needs it.
4. Other medical problems
Constipation can be caused by other medical problems or
the medication that is used to treat them. If your dog is
on medication, discuss the problem with your veterinarian
to see what can be done.
Dog Constipation Home Remedies
With a good diet and plenty of exercise, a dog's
metabolic system should regulate itself within a few days.
However, if diet and exercise fail to solve the problem,
consider one of these remedies.
Bran - add 1-2 teaspoons of bran to his meal. Alternatively,
use psyllium, which can be less irritating for the digestive
system. Like bran, this is a natural fiber which will bulk
out the dog's food and help the stool to pass more easily.
Mineral oil - this is a laxative and should not be used
for more than a few days, but it may help to get your dog's
system working again. Use 1-3 teaspoons in each meal, depending
on the size of dog.
If the problem persists despite these dog constipation
home remedy ideas, or if you notice that the dog is lethargic,
has lost his appetite or has blood in his stools, consult
with your veterinarian.
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