Constipation

What is constipation in dogs?

Constipation is the inability or difficulty to defecate. The feces are usually hard, dry and small. Constipation can have various causes, such as

• Lack of exercise
• Incorrect diet
• Hairballs in the intestine
• Foreign bodies in the bowel
• medication
• Diseases of the prostate, bowel or rectum
• Old age

How do I recognize constipation in my dog?

Constipation can manifest itself through various signs, such as

• Reduced or absent defecation
• Straining or panting when defecating
• Mucus or blood in the stool
• Loss of appetite
• lethargy
• Abdominal pain or bloating
• Restlessness or whining

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should take him to the vet to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

How do I treat constipation in my dog?

The treatment for constipation depends on the severity and cause. In some cases, a simple change in diet or the administration of laxatives may be sufficient to aid digestion. In other cases, manual evacuation of the bowel or surgery may be necessary to remove a foreign body or correct a stricture.

To prevent constipation in your dog, make sure he drinks enough water, exercises regularly and eats a high-fiber diet. You should also prevent him from eating bones, grass, hair or other indigestible items.