Effective Solutions for Dog Constipation: Quick Tips!

1. Early Stages of Dog Constipation

Dogs in the early stages of constipation typically exhibit normal body temperature and a gradual decrease in appetite. They may frequently assume a defecation posture, bending over and lifting their tails, yet experience a reduction in bowel movements. The feces will feel slightly dry and hard, and a light sensitivity in the abdomen upon palpation.

Treatment Methods:

1. Gently press on the feces within the intestines to reshape it, then use a rectal syringe to insert a few milliliters of glycerin or apply a rectal suppository to dislodge the accumulated feces in the rectum.

2. Mix 2 to 4 raw eggs with 50 to 100 grams of sugar, and the mixture can be very effective when fed to the dog.

3. Increase the intake of carbohydraterich foods, and consider feeding vegetables and fruits to aid in bowel movement and intestinal lubrication. Usually, one treatment session is sufficient for recovery.

2. Middle Stages of Dog Constipation

During the middle stages, the dog's body temperature usually remains unchanged, and their appetite decreases. They may repeatedly attempt to defecate, showing signs of abdominal pain and distress, with occasional, small fecal balls. The dog may be restless and cry out in pain. Palpation of the abdomen reveals a high level of sensitivity, and the colon and rectum contain a significant amount of hard, impacted feces.

Treatment involves using 0.1% to 0.29% warm soap solution or 4 ml of turpentine oil mixed with 300 ml of soap water to perform an enema. Carefully insert the enema tube into the rectum and slowly inject the prepared warm soap solution, adjusting the amount based on the dog's weight (100 to 300 ml). Press on the anus to keep the soap solution in the intestines for a few minutes to allow it to soften the impacted feces. Then, gently crush and push the impacted feces out through the rectum, or use fingers to remove the feces from the rectum. If the feces are very hard, increase the frequency of enemas and extend the time the soap solution remains in the intestines.

3. Late Stages of Dog Constipation

In the late stages, dogs may show a drop in body temperature, loss of appetite, and a listless, dull demeanor. They may become emaciated, with a decreased response to stimuli and a tendency to curl up. The colon and rectum are filled with a large amount of hard, impacted feces, and palpation of the abdomen may not elicit a sensitive response.

Treatment requires not only rapid enemas to remove the impacted feces but also intravenous or intraperitoneal fluid administration. Larger dogs may need injections of 25% glucose solution, 5% sodium bicarbonate solution, and normal saline to address dehydration and imbalances in acidbase levels. Probiotics can help stimulate intestinal motility and regulate the digestive system, but their effectiveness can be limited if the dog does not drink enough water or consumes indigestible foods. Therefore, dog owners must pay close attention to their pets' daily diet and take preventive measures. If a dog exhibits constipation along with other symptoms, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly or consult with an online veterinary expert.