Dog Health Questions

What is Constipation?

Constipation is a common problem of the digestive system. All animals can suffer from constipation, but older dogs are most prone to the condition. The term ranges from less frequent bowel movements than normal to more difficult passage of stools or a combination of both. Being constipated can make your pet feel uncomfortable, bloated, heavy and sluggish.

Regular elimination of waste products from the animal body is vital to maintaining health. If waste is not removed your animal’s system is polluted and at risk. The colon is the organ in the animal body that gets rid of waste, toxins and bacteria. It contains and moves waste materials throughout the body.

When the waste materials become clogged inside the colon, constipation occurs. Because the colon walls are so thin, clogged waste material that stays in the colon too long can result in the leakage of harmful toxins and bacteria through the colon wall and into the body to cause further complications. If the colon is not in regular use it can become weak finding it difficult to move or pass waste through the body.

The signs and symptoms of constipation in animals include:

* Abdominal bloating
* Cramps or abdominal pain
* Experiencing hard, compacted stools that are difficult or painful to pass
* No bowel movement or the urge to move bowels
* Loss of appetite

Related symptoms include:

* Flatulence with the inability to pass a stool
* Halitosis
* Coated tongue
* Nausea and appetite loss
* Diarrhea

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation can result from a number of factors and they include:

* A diet low in fiber (lacking whole grains, bran, fresh fruit and vegetables)
* Insufficient intake of water
* An inactive lifestyle
* Stress
* Medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), spinal injury, kidney failure, colon or rectal cancer, too much calcium in the blood, tumors and lesions of the bowel can all result in constipation
* Changes in the environment
* Poorly healed pelvic injuries
* Medications given your pet for other ailments (such as antibiotics).
* Parasite infestations
* Blockages caused by ingested, and undigested, grass or bones.

Diagnosing Constipation

It is important to monitor your pet’s bowel movements. Indoor cats are easier to monitor as one can check the sandbox. Look out for any changes in stool color or consistency. Veterinarians stress that it’s important to be aware of any signs of constipation early on and deal with them quickly.

Long standing constipation can lead to a condition called megacolon – a stretched and flaccid colon no longer able to contract as it should. If you notice any changes in your pet’s bowel movements take your animal to your vet for a check up.

Help for Constipation

Various treatments can help to ease the symptoms of constipation and promote a healthy digestive system. Conventional medication, complementary therapy and natural remedies together with a high fiber diet and regular exercise will keep your digestive system regular.

If your animal is constipated, conventional laxatives are often prescribed. Giving your pet a mild laxative, if advised by your vet, can solve the problem. However, keep in mind that smaller dogs are likely to require smaller amounts than larger dogs – make sure you get the correct dosage from a professional. Enemas are also performed, however it is not pleasant and may be stressful for your pet. If a blockage is suspected, x-rays may be needed.

Recommended Product

Natural Moves for Pets is the best possible treatment for the constipation in your pet. It contains a blend of herbal remedies and biochemic tissue salts especially selected to support bowel health in pets and to maintain healthy bowel and digestive functioning. Used occasionally when needed, or regularly for long term support, the ingredients of Natural Moves for Pets have the added benefit of supporting thyroid health, maintaining cholesterol within normal levels and encouraging healthy strong skin and bones.

While conventional medicine works by often treating just the symptoms, this natural medicine strives to create holistic balance. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, the natural ingredients in this treatment support overall health and functioning.

Natural Moves for Pets comes in convenient capsule form. The capsules are easy to administer to pets and may be given whole or opened and the contents mixed with food or a treat, depending on your pet’s size and preferences. It may be taken regularly every day for long-term results or occasionally when needed for 5 – 10 days – depending on your pet’s needs. If you would like to find out more about this product, then please click here.