Laxatives are a powerful remedy used to manage constipation. This medication has an unrivaled efficiency in managing different conditions in dogs: digestive disturbances, blockages, and all types of constipation. But not all laxatives are good for dogs. Read on to find out which laxatives are safe, their risks, and alternatives.

Content:

  1. Can Dogs Have Laxatives
  2. What Laxatives Are Safe for Dogs
  3. Natural Laxatives for Puppies
  4. FAQ

Can Dogs Have Laxatives

Yes! Dogs can have laxatives. They are efficient in alleviating digestive disorders, especially constipation, but administering laxatives to dogs should not be done without a veterinarian’s recommendation and prescription. Some laxatives could be harmful to dogs and should not be given carelessly.

In constipation, dogs show difficulty in defecating or defecate only a little amount of poop, usually hard and dry poop. This condition is common, as many cases have been reported. These are symptoms of constipation to look out for in dogs:

Constipation in dogs could stem from different causes, such as diet change, feeding habits, or certain gut conditions.

“A healthy dog can go 12-24 hours without a bowel movement, but when it goes beyond 48-72 hours, it becomes a problem”, - Dr. Jennifer Coates

Laxatives have their side effects and should be looked out for. Side effects could be due to overdose, allergy, or usage of the wrong type of laxatives. Some of the possible side effects from laxative administration may include:

With the Petcube Cam 360, you can keep a close eye on your dog after administration of laxatives. This camera can be placed at a strategic location in your home, and your dog's behaviour can be watched even while you are away. This way, you can report any unusual symptoms to the veterinarian promptly.

What Laxatives Are Safe for Dogs

According to research, laxative supplements containing psyllium are effective in managing constipation conditions in dogs. With an average success rate of 79.2%, psyllium supplements would help dogs with constipation defecate with ease during supplementation.

Oral laxatives are commonly used when managing constipation in dogs. These laxatives should be given under the supervision of a veterinarian to avoid aspiration, which could lead to lipid pneumonia.

A study shows that a good and safe laxative for dogs should have the following properties:

  • Ability to lubricate faeces, enhancing water penetration and aiding faeces softening. A good example of this is the flavored white petroleum product and docusate laxatives.
  • Promote intestinal mucosal fluid retainment; an example is the lactulose of PEG laxatives.
  • Enhance healthy motility of the bowel, for example, the bisacodyl laxative.

In my experience, a good laxative would let faeces regain its semi-pasty consistency, not too hard or dry. It would also return normal bowel movement and frequency. Diarrhea would cease and appetite would normalize.

Natural Laxatives for Puppies

After ruling out possible underlying health conditions, mild constipations can be resolved with homemade natural laxatives, which are safe to use for puppies.

“My puppy was prone to constipation and diarrhea but got better when administered pumpkin laxatives”, - Reddit User

Examples of some natural laxatives may include:

  • Olive oil/Coconut oil: Adding a quarter or half teaspoon would help lubricate the digestive tract and relieve constipation in puppies.
  • Pumpkin: Pumpkin and green leaves are high in moisture and fiber, which help enhance digestion in puppies.
  • Increase water intake: Water is an efficient lubricator and aid for digestion. Providing puppies with enough water when feeding and at all times would help make the digestion process more efficient. Petcube Water Fountain ensures your pup always has access to fresh, flowing water, encouraging healthy hydration every day.
  • Exercise: A few walks could help relieve mild constipation, as movement enhances bowel movement.
  • Probiotics: Recommended probiotics or unsweetened yoghurt promote gut health and enhance digestion in puppies.

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Conclusion

Laxatives are essential oral medications for dogs with digestive disturbances like constipation. Its efficacy in managing constipation has been proven in many cases of this condition. Dogs with regular episodes of constipation should be examined and checked if they have any underlying condition. Conditions leading to constipation should be treated and manged to avoid relapse. Diet should also be reviewed alongside eating habits; this will help curtail constipation.

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