Summary:
"Constipation dog home remedy ideas include adding bran, psyllium, mineral oil and the use of natural supplements to your dog's diet. Be sure to see a veterinarian if home remedies don't solve the problem in one or two days."
Overview
Just as people can become constipated, so can dogs. A lack of exercise and improper diet are common causes of constipation in our canine companions. Prevent the problem by giving your dog plenty of opportunities for exercise and feeding a high quality commercial dog food and no table scraps.
The most common treatment for constipation is a change in diet. If this does not work, a mild laxative may be prescribed. An enema may also be necessary to remove hardened stool which is impacted in the colon.
Symptoms - Indications a Constipation Dog Home Remedy is Needed
Dogs normally have one to two bowel movements per day. Dogs who are constipated may actually have more bowel movements than normal but pass much smaller stools. Stools will be hard and dry. They may have some blood and/or mucous on them, however.
If your dog is unable to move his bowels at all for two days, or if he is constipated and vomiting, he may have an intestinal blockage and you should see your vet. Otherwise, you can try a constipation dog home remedy. If it doesn't seem to be working after a few days, visit your vet to get things checked out. With your vet's approval, you can continue to treat constipation at home with the following home remedies.
Diagnosing Canine Constipation
Constipation is easily diagnosed from the symptoms described above. If you take your dog to the vet for constipation, take a stool sample if you are able to get one. If your dog is unable to move his bowels at all, your vet may suspect an intestinal blockage and will take an x-ray to check for that.
Dog Constipation Home Remedy Treatment Ideas
Make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise and eating a proper diet. Make sure he has access to fresh water at all times, as well. If he does become constipated, here are some constipation dog home remedies you can try.
- Bran: - Add one to two teaspoons of bran to his food each day. The added fiber will help with constipation by making the stool softer and easier to pass.
- Psyllium: - Another method is to add psyllium (Metamucil) to his diet. Give half a teaspoon twice a day, along with plenty of water.
- Vegetable Oil: - Try mixing vegetable oil in a small amount of food. Provide 1/2 teaspoon per ten to 15 pounds of your dogs weight mixed into the food.
- Herbal Dietary Supplements: - Herbal remedies are available such as Natural Moves that are formulated to promote healthy digestion and provide support for dogs with constipation.
- Fasting: - In cases of acute or sudden constipation, try providing just broth for a day to see if there is some improvement.
Dog Constipation - Natural Supplements
Several supplements or a capsule that combine one or more can be helpful in relieving and preventing constipation:
- Psyllium nigrum husk: A very high source of dietary fiber and has been used for centuries to treat ulcers and colitis and to promote regular bowel movements. It also helps to clear the body of excess cholesterol and helps to prevent heart disease.
- Aloe Ferox: Aloe Ferox is known for its beneficial effect on digestive functioning and acts as a natural system cleanser and remedy for constipation. It is also widely recommended for digestive complaints.
- Natrium Muriaticum 6C (Nat. Mur.): A biochemic tissue salt which helps to maintain the body's water balance and is an essential component of all living cells. It plays a very important role in the digestive process and in the healthy processing of food. A systemic imbalance of Nat. Mur. can lead to a host of chronic digestive complaints such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion, bloating and heartburn. This tissue salt also has an excellent reputation for effectively treating dry and scaly as well as itching and weeping skin conditions, including skin allergies.
A good commercial source for information and to purchase supplements is PetAlive.
Sources
Home Remedies for Dog Constipation
Ethan Allen
Diseases of the Anus and Rectum
Willard, Michael
www.dog.com
