Constipation is a condition characterized by difficulty passing stools normally. When this happens, feces can harden and accumulate in the colon. The condition is common in pets, and can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.
Causes of Constipation
A number of factors can lead to constipation in pets. These include dehydration, lack of dietary fiber, reactions to certain medications, and ingestion of foreign bodies. Obese or senior pets are particularly prone to the condition. In addition, underlying health issues can contribute to the development of constipation. One of the most common of these is megacolon, a condition in which the colon becomes dilated.
Symptoms of Constipation
Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the following signs or symptoms of constipation.
- Straining while defecating
- Scooting
- Passing hard or dry stool
- Absence of bowel movements for 2-3 days
- Vocalizing while defecating
- Passing small amounts of liquid stool
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
Diagnosis of Constipation
Your veterinarian will ask you a series of questions about the onset and severity of your pet’s symptoms. They will then perform a thorough physical examination to check for clinical signs of constipation such as abdominal swelling.
Other diagnostic tests may include blood tests, a urinalysis, and a fecal examination to check for underlying causes of your pet’s symptoms. Imaging techniques such as ultrasounds or X-rays may also be used to help confirm a diagnosis of constipation.
Treatment of Constipation
Treatment of constipation will depend on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. In severe cases, a period of hospitalization may be necessary to stabilize your pet and administer fluid therapy. Your veterinarian may also recommend an enema or manual removal of impacted feces. If your pet has ingested a foreign object, surgery will be required to remove the obstruction.
In less severe cases, your veterinarian may prescribe medications such as laxatives to help your pet pass stool more easily. A high-fiber diet may also be recommended to normalize bowel movements.
Prevention of Constipation
The best way to prevent constipation in pets is by feeding a healthy, balanced diet that contains adequate dietary fiber. It’s also important to provide plenty of fresh drinking water to keep your pet hydrated. Please speak to your veterinarian for more information about preventing constipation in pets.
