![]() It is best to avoid this temptation because mineral oil is a petroleum oil without flavor and it is easily inhaled into the respiratory tract accidentally when it gets in the mouth. This might be stool softeners such as laxatone, lactulose, polyethylene glycol 3350 (Miralax®), or DSS or it might be a medication to increase the normal motility (contractile strength) of the large intestine such as cisapride or bisacodyl (Dulcolax®).Īn old-fashioned remedy has been mineral oil taken orally (by mouth). Enemas are best left to experienced professional staff.Ī short course of medication may be prescribed. It invites bites and scratches, especially if the patient is uncomfortable, to begin with, plus it is a messy undertaking. It is important to appreciate that pets do not take kindly to enemas and this kind of procedure should not be attempted at home. Simply isolated episodes of constipation are easily treated with a DSS, soap and water, or K-Y jelly-based enema. An enlarged prostate is often palpable rectally though the size of the prostate is better assessed with a radiograph.ĭid you say "cat enema?" Photo Courtesy DepositPhotos Neutering usually solves this problem, though sometimes the problem is more serious, such as a prostate tumor. The gland sits just below the colon and can press on the colon serving to narrow it. An old fracture is generally obvious with a radiograph of the abdomen.Īlternatively, an enlarged prostate gland is a common feature of older male dogs. Constipation may not result for years after the initial trauma. These usually heal without surgery but can heal such that the pelvic canal through which stool must pass is narrowed. For example, animals hit by cars often suffer a fractured pelvis. ![]() If constipation has been a recurring problem, then this kind of lab work database becomes especially important.Īn internal obstruction may be causing the problem. This may be the only noticeable sign of an important metabolic problem such as insufficient kidney function. Some medications can have constipation as a side effect ( sucralfate).Īn important potential cause of constipation to check for is an electrolyte imbalance, especially in an older pet. The stools produced can be sharp or painful to pass, often leading to straining and discomfort. This does not usually indicate a dietary deficiency as many owners suspect, though we do not have a good explanation for this unusual dietary behavior. Some animals, especially dogs, get in the habit of eating gravel, stones, dirt, bones, or plants. This is not an uncommon cause of constipation and often treatment for the excessive grooming is helpful. Some animals excessively groom themselves (especially if they are itchy) and find themselves passing stools containing large amounts of hair. Simple constipation can be caused by any number of reasons. If your pet seems to be uncomfortable or straining unproductively, then it is probably time for intervention and you should call your veterinarian. In fact, the colon can easily store several weeks worth of stool so if only a few days have passed it may be worthwhile to wait a little longer. ![]() Some commercially prepared products are toxic to pets so it is important that human constipation products, be they enemas or laxatives, not be used in pets without specific veterinary instruction.
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