If your pet is constipated they won’t be able to go to the loo properly. The most common causes of constipation are dehydration and a gradual loss of muscle tone in the colon, which makes it difficult for your pet to poo.
If you think your pet has constipation, your vet will perform a thorough examination and look for signs of dehydration such as loss of skin elasticity or tenting.
They may put your pet on intravenous fluids and lactulose-based medication to help with their bowel movement. It’s a good idea to discuss costs with your vet before treatment.
Keep your pet well hydrated and try to include as much fibre in their diet as possible. If it’s a reoccurring problem, the vet may prescribe laxative medication on an ongoing basis.
Make sure you review the clinical history of your new pet and ask for more details on how the constipation has been treated. You’ll need to sign a disclaimer to confirm you’ve been made aware of the condition. Any pet who’s had treatment is likely to have pet insurance exclusions, so it’s worth discussing potential on-going costs with your vet.
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