5 Solutions For Constipation In Dogs
Constipation in puppies can be a frequent problem, which usually stems from an inadequate diet or lack of exercise. We’ll show you some solutions to get your pet’s bowels back to its normal rhythm.
Information about constipation in dogs
The normal thing would be for a dog to defecate once or twice a day, but if that doesn’t happen, and besides, when it manages to defecate, the stools are small, hard and sparse, you’re faced with a constipated animal.
But if in addition to this problem your pet appears to be distracted, listless or shows some other sign that something is not right with your health, you should take him to the vet. In these cases, constipation is likely to be a sign of a more serious illness.
Discarded these issues, which may require specific medical treatments, there are other ways to improve the intestinal transit of a pet that can be put into practice without major problems. We’ll show you 5 solutions for your constipated dog. Take note.
1 – Olive oil
This noble product also offers excellent results for the treatment of constipation in dogs. It is a natural and easy-to-manage option, as puppies usually love its taste.
If your four-legged friend has trouble defecating, add one or two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to your food for two or three days.
If the problems persist and there are no signs that it is due to a more serious condition, you can permanently incorporate olive oil into your food for a few days a week.
2 – Add more fiber to your diet
A diet without adequate fiber contributes to your puppy’s constipation.
Currently, commercial food, whether dry or wet, is designed to provide a balanced diet according to your dog’s needs, according to age, size and physical activity that he develops.
If you offer your dog homemade food, you should make sure that it covers all his nutritional needs to prevent, among other things, difficulties in defecating.
In summary, proper nutrition, whether it’s kibble or homemade food, contributes to the proper intestinal transit of these dear little animals.
3 – Physical activity
Avoiding sedentary lifestyles, both in humans and pets, ensures better health.
The proper level of physical activity for your pet is related to the proper functioning of its intestines. Therefore, it is important that you dedicate time to walks, games and exercises indoors and outdoors.
4 – Lots of water
Among the possible causes of constipation in dogs is the lack of fluid absorption. So make sure your dog always has fresh, clean water at his disposal.
A correct intake of water, in addition to keeping the dog well hydrated, contributes to a good digestion of the food consumed by him.
5 – Wet food
Dogs, like cats, get much of the water from food that their bodies need to function properly. Even though 70% of natural foods are made up of water, dry feed is not part of this percentage.
To make up for this gap, add moist food to your pet’s diet, be it commercial pet food or homemade food.
Another reason that can cause constipation in dogs
In addition to the usual causes of constipation in dogs, which are less severe, there are other factors that can cause it. For example:
- The age. As they age, dogs may have greater difficulty defecating.
- The prostate. Males who have prostate problems often have trouble evacuating their stools normally due to inflammation of this gland, which puts pressure on the rectum.
- Tumors in the rectal area.
- Diseases of the perianal glands.
Don’t hesitate to consult a veterinarian to help you regain your four-legged friend’s proper intestinal transit.