For a dog lover, dog's health is a very important issue. If your dog does not defecate regularly, at least once in two days, then it indicates constipation. Severe constipation results in inflammation of colon or large intestine. Hence, the dog may experience acute pain in the stomach and start whining excessively. If you see blood oozing out, then there is a high chance of colon damage. However, if you see watery or blood stools, it may be due to infection than constipation.
Constipation should be treated immediately in order to avoid further complications like indigestion, bowel cancer, stomach bloating, obesity, bad breath, body odor, flatulence and skin problems.
Causes:
• Inadequate water intake
• Problems with bowel movement
• Dehydration
• Unhealthy diet like excessive consumption of processed dog foods with low fiber content
• Less physical activity
• Adverse side effects due to medication
• Consumption of indigestible particles
Symptoms:
• Signs of discomfort and restlessness
• Trouble walking
• Excessive whining or stress
• General lethargy or fatigue
• Decreased rate of activity
• Appetite loss
• Reluctant behavior
• Abnormal gait
Treatment:
• Take him to the veterinarian to find out whether there are any serious medical disorders. You may be asked to give certain food supplements to treat constipation
• Feed pumpkin, raw meat and wheat
• Increase foods rich in fiber content gradually
• Ensure that he drinks lot of water to avoid dehydration
• Limit the amount of protein rich foods, refined sugar or flour, dairy products and other highly processed foods
• Avoid foods like chocolate, ice cream, rice, cookies, pastries and bread.
Kum Martin is an online leading expert in animal care. He also offers top quality articles like: Dog Agility Training, Best Dog Food