Constipation Species: dogs

Constipation is when your dog has infrequent and difficult defecation, that is, having trouble doing his ‘twos’!. If constipation progresses to the point where no defecation occurs, this is referred to as constipation and, if left unattended, can be life threatening. There are many causes of constipation, and although initial treatment with enemas is often successful, the underlying cause should be determined if possible, to prevent constipation recurring, and to determine whether the constipation is just a sign of another more serious disease process.

What are the signs of constipation?

An owner will observe that the dog is straining excessively to defecate, may exhibit pain while straining, and is passing either small amounts or no faeces at all. Sometimes a small amount of liquid may be passed, which the owner may interpret as diarrhoea.

What are the causes of constipation?

• dietary – bones, indigestible material such as plastic or plants, hair
• Pain on defecation – spinal pain, arthritis, anal sac disease or a foreign body in the rectum such as a sharp piece of cooked bone or plastic
• Obstruction of the large intestine – tumour, stricture, foreign body, a fractured pelvis that has healed abnormally to reduce the size of the pelvic canal through which the colon passes, other masses pushing onto the colon e.g. enlarged prostate, etc.
• Dysfunction of the colon due to other diseases or nerve problems
• Behavioural – inactivity, lack of house-training
• Perineal hernia – a condition which results in the rectum deviating into a hernia adjacent the anus
• Some drugs
• Inability to squat to defecate – limb and nerve problems

What is the treatment for constipation?

If your pet is straining to defecate, it is best to take him to your veterinary clinic. Don’t administer your pet over-the-counter human enemas or laxatives unless advised by your vet. Some of these can be quite toxic, and injury may occur. Physical examination may prompt the vet to take radiographs (X-rays) to check for more serious intestinal problems. A long-term constipation may progress to obstipation (blockage). At this stage, the pet will be unable to pass any stool at all, and will quickly become depressed, dehydrated, and likely will go off food as well. If left unattended, this can be life threatening, and will stretch the lower bowels significantly, thus potentially damaging the muscular wall.

Can I prevent constipation?

Some dogs become constipated after eating bones, so you can try feeding softer bones, such as oxtail or brisket (remove excess fat) and make sure the bones are raw, not cooked. Some dogs cannot tolerate bones at all. Instead you can use rawhide bones, pigs ears’, and similar products for treats that are digested more easily. Ensure your dog also has access to plenty of fresh water at all times and discuss the best diet for your dog with your veterinarian.