Dog Constipation

A dog should defecate at least once in two days, with soft feces. The dog suffers from Constipation if it does not do so.

Mechanical obstructions such as tumors, strictures and foreign bodies are the most probable causes of initial Constipation. The ingestion of large meals of bones and some indigestible fibrous material can cause Constipation. If we do not notice it in time the feces accumulates in the colon, loses its moisture and becomes dry. It makes it all the harder to move the bowel. The older dogs are affected more. The dog may strain to defecate, and pass a small amount of liquid stool. Loss of appetite, vomiting and lethargy are other symptoms of Dog Constipation.

Frequent Constipation causes a condition called megacolon. When the feces accumulate in the colon, it dilates to hold the feces. Over a period it loses its ability to contract and expand to propel the feces out.

Clinical signs are the important methods by which the Constipation is diagnosed. Physical examination and, in certain cases, radiography can help in assessing the Constipation of the pet. First, treatment may involve enemas and or the physical removal of the feces in a veterinary clinic. If that doesn