How to Help Your Dog with Constipation in Orlando, FL

dog constipation orlando, fl

Dogs can, on occasion, become constipated, and in many cases, it can be resolved within a day or two without the need for intervention. However, dog constipation can sometimes be a more serious medical issue that needs to be treated as soon as possible. Below, we explain what to look out for to tell if your dog is constipated, what to do if your suspicions are confirmed, and what kinds of treatment options we can offer to fix the problem.

At our emergency animal hospital in Orlando, FL, we have doctors and staff available around the clock to care for your pet. If you are unsure about your pet’s condition and need help knowing what to do next, contact us at [business-phone]!

Signs of Dog Constipation

Your dog may not be able to tell you they’re constipated in words, but they can with certain changes in their daily elimination habits and overall behavior.
Here are some common signs of dog constipation:

  • Going at least 48 hours without passing any stool
  • Appears to be straining when trying to eliminate, crouching for a moment and then walking away
  • Frequent squatting and scooting
  • Vocalizing while trying to eliminate (whining, yelping), a sign your dog is uncomfortable or in pain
  • Only able to pass small, hardened stools
  • Decrease in appetite
  • Your dog growls or cries in pain when you touch their abdomen

What to Do If You Suspect Your Dog is Constipated

Is your dog showing some of the signs listed above? Whether or not you’re 100% sure, call 24/7 Animal Hospital of Orlando so our team can answer your questions, recommend potential solutions to try at home, or have you bring in your pet so we can examine them and administer treatment as necessary.

Options for Treating Dog Constipation

There are several different ways to treat dog constipation, depending on the severity of the condition.

100% Pure Canned Pumpkin

One way to ease your dog’s constipation is to feed them 100% pure canned pumpkin. Since it’s pureed, it’s easy for your dog to eat, and it contains no sugars or other additives that could upset their gut. Pumpkin is a fiber-rich food, and completely safe for your pet to ingest. You can mix the pumpkin into your dog’s food, or just feed them the pumpkin by itself.

Metamucil

Metamucil is another possible solution to your dog’s constipation. Be sure to contact us if you are unsure about dosage to make sure your dog is receiving the proper amount! Metamucil contains psyllium, a highly fibrous ingredient, and it’s tasteless, so it can be mixed into your dog’s food.

Prescription Diet

There are a number of high-quality prescription diets available to dogs for the management and prevention of various conditions, including constipation. A digestive diet high in fiber could help to keep your dog’s stools regular and at a healthy consistency.

Exercise

Upping your dog’s exercise routine to more frequent and rigorous activity may seem like a band-aid solution, but sometimes more movement is all your pup needs to get their stool moving again. Take your dog on longer walks or walk them more frequently throughout the week.

dog drinking waterIncreased Water Intake

Is your dog consuming enough water? Your vet might suggest increasing their water intake to help soften their stool so it can pass more easily. This can be done by adding water to your dog’s food or feeding them canned food. Talk to your vet about your pet’s options.

Prescription Medication

Other treatment options your vet might recommend include prescription medications to increase intestinal tract motility. Some of these medications can transfer water from the large intestine and cause mild irritation to the intestinal lining to facilitate the transit of feces through the tract.

Fluid Therapy and Enema

For severe cases of dog constipation, a more intensive medical approach may be necessary. Intravenous fluids might be needed to keep your dog hydrated while they are hospitalized, and an enema may be administered to soften the stool and remove it manually.

Talk to Your Vet About Dog Constipation in Orlando, FL

While we have listed a variety of dog constipation treatment options above, it’s extremely important that you contact us before attempting to treat your pet on your own. We also might want to see your pet so we can perform a thorough exam and figure out the best course of action for their needs.

Dog constipation can range from minor and easily resolved, to severe and in need of aggressive medical intervention. When in doubt about your pet’s condition, call our Orlando, FL, emergency animal hospital at [business-phone]! We’re here for you and your pet at all hours.