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In our journey as dog parents, we're continuously learning about our furry friend's health. Constipation can significantly affect our dog's comfort and well-being. Gaining insight into this condition is key to ensuring our canine companions lead a healthy and happy life.
What Is Dog Constipation?
Dog constipation refers to difficult or infrequent bowel movements. The occasional delay might not be a cause for concern, but if your dog hasn't 'gone' for more than two days, or the stool has become dry and hard, it's time to be alert. A healthy dog typically has one to two bowel movements per day, but this can change based on diet, hydration, and exercise levels.
When constipation becomes chronic, it can escalate into conditions like obstipation, where the feces are very dry and hard or become impacted in the rectum and colon, or megacolon, where the colon becomes dilated, making it tough for your dog to pass stool.
Both are serious conditions that can severely impact a dog's quality of life, so understanding and addressing constipation early on is so important.
Causes of Constipation in Dogs
Constipation in dogs often stems from diseases or conditions that reduces the passage of feces through the colon. This can be due to a variety of factors, including dehydration, physical inactivity, underlying medical conditions, behavioral disturbances, and the side effects of certain medications.
Here's a breakdown of each possible cause:
- Dehydration: Inadequate water intake can lead to hard, dry stools and result in constipation.
- Lack of exercise: An inactive lifestyle can result in slower intestinal transit times and contribute to constipation.
- Neurological conditions: Certain conditions, such as spinal cord diseases and nerve injuries, can lead to constipation.
- Obstructive conditions: Tumors, injuries, and foreign bodies can obstruct the colon and cause constipation.
- Systemic disease: Kidney disease, diabetes, and thyroid disease (hypo- and hyperthyroidism) can lead to constipation.
- Behavioral disturbances: Disturbances, such as travel and noise, associated with anxiety can induce constipation.
- Orthopedic issues: Dogs with joint or hip problems may struggle to position themselves properly for defecation, leading to constipation.
- Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics and antihistamines, and antacids, can cause constipation as a side effect.
Signs & Symptoms of Dog Constipation
Being aware of the following signs can help you identify if your furry friend is experiencing discomfort due to constipation:
- Straining to defecate: One of the first signs might be your dog straining, but producing little to no stool.
- Small, hard stools: If your dog does manage to defecate, the stools may be smaller than usual, hard, and dry.
- Decreased appetite: Digestive discomfort from constipation may lead to a reduced interest in food.
- Vomiting: As constipation worsens, your dog may vomit, which can be a sign of a more serious issue.
- Weight loss: If constipation persists over time, it can lead to noticeable weight loss.
Tense, painful abdomen: Your dog's belly might feel hard and they may be reactive when you touch it. - Lethargy: A constipated dog might show signs of being tired, having less energy than usual.
It's important to know that some dogs with severe constipation might also pass small amounts of liquid stool, which can sometimes be mistaken for incontinence or diarrhea.
Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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Diagnosis of Canine Constipation
If your veterinarian suspects your dog is constipated, they will start with a physical and rectal examination to identify any abnormalities. They may then use abdominal X-rays to spot blockages or masses, and perform blood tests or urinalysis to check for underlying conditions.
In some cases, they may need to carry out an abdominal ultrasound or biopsies for a more detailed diagnosis. Their goal is always to find the root cause of constipation to guide the best treatment approach.
Treatment for Dogs with Constipation
When treating a constipated dog, the veterinarian's approach often depends on the severity of the condition. Hydration is key, as adequate water intake can help soften the stool and facilitate bowel movements. Dietary adjustments, including increasing fiber intake, can also be beneficial.
The veterinarian may often administer an enema or manually remove the hardened feces. If your dog's constipation is due to a medication they're taking, the doctor may adjust the dosage or suggest an alternative.
Surgery may be necessary in severe cases, such as when there's a physical obstruction, constipation has become chronic, or the dog has developed a condition like megacolon.
Prevention of Dogs with Constipation
To prevent constipation in dogs, it's important to ensure regular exercise and a balanced diet, especially with enough fiber and water.
Regular vet checkups are crucial to catch and address potential health issues that might cause constipation. If any underlying conditions are present, proper management is vital in preventing constipation.
Also, watch what your dog chews on; certain items like bones can cause digestive blockages.
Conclusion
Dog constipation is a condition we should monitor and understand its signs as well as potential causes. Treatment options vary based on the cause and can even require surgery in severe cases. Prevention entails a healthy lifestyle for your dog, including appropriate exercise and diet, as well as regular vet visits.
If you see changes in your dog's bowel movement, it's time to visit your veterinarian. It's all about keeping your four-legged friend in tip-top shape!
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a dog behave when constipated?
A constipated dog may strain or make frequent attempts to defecate with little or no result. They might also show signs of discomfort like whining, pacing, or changes in appetite.
How long is too long for a dog to be constipated?
If a dog hasn't had a bowel movement in two days or more, it could be a sign of constipation, and it's time to consult a veterinarian. Any associated symptoms like vomiting or pain should warrant immediate veterinary attention.
What is a good laxative for a dog?
There are several canine-appropriate laxatives available, but it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication. They might recommend a pet-safe option like canned pumpkin, a high-fiber supplement, or, in some cases, a prescription laxative.
