Miralax is a drug that is often prescribed to humans for constipation relief. But can dogs have Miralax? The answer to this question is yes, dogs can take Miralax as long as it is prescribed by a veterinarian. Miralax is safe for dogs and can be used to treat occasional constipation.
In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of Miralax for dogs and how to administer it correctly.
Can a Dog Have Miralax?
Miralax is a relatively safe drug that is often prescribed to humans for constipation relief, and you can use it with your dogs as well. However, some people have claimed that their pups have gotten sick from this product, so always speak with your veterinarian before administering Miralax to your dog. If you want to try this method of constipation relief for your furry friend, here are some things you should know.
Miralax is a drug that pulls water into the colon, which then softens the stool and makes it easier to pass. This is an osmotic laxative, which means it works by drawing water into the intestines. This is safe for dogs on an occasional basis, especially if they drink lots of water alongside the medication.
Miralax is available over-the-counter and in generic form, so it is relatively affordable. However, it’s still important to speak with your vet to decide the correct dosage. Your vet may recommend that you only administer half of the recommended dosage to start.
If your dog is pregnant, allergic to any medication, under 6 months old, or over 8 months old, it’s especially important to have professional supervision when giving them this medicine.
Are There Side Effects From Miralax?
It’s fairly uncommon for dogs to experience side effects from Miralax, but it can happen, especially if you have overdosed your dog or it has a specific allergic reaction to this medicine.
If your dog does have a reaction to Miralax, the most common symptom is diarrhea. Other possible side effects include vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog after giving them Miralax, stop administering the drug and call your vet immediately.
When to Use Miralax for Your Dog
Miralax can be used for short-term constipation relief in dogs. If your dog is having difficulty passing stool, Miralax can help soften the stool and make it easier to pass. For long-term constipation relief, it’s better to pursue more natural methods, such as increasing your dog’s fiber intake or adding more exercise to their routine.
If you decide to use Miralax for your dog, make sure you follow the dosage directions carefully and watch for any adverse reactions. If you have any questions about using Miralax for your dog, speak with a veterinarian.
Why Give a Dog Miralax?
Miralax can be a good choice for your pup if they are having difficulty passing stool and you need a quick and effective solution. This drug is safe for dogs when used as directed and can be an affordable option for constipation relief. Just make sure you watch for any side effects and speak with your vet if you have any concerns.
If you’re not sure whether or not your dog is constipated, there are some signs you can look for:
Straining: If your dog is straining to defecate or seems to be in pain while trying to poop, this is a sign of constipation. It may hunch over and squeeze his abdomen but have no success with passing a stool.
Hard Stools: If your dog’s stool is hard and dry, this can also be a sign of constipation. Keep an eye out for stools that are difficult to pass or smaller than normal.
Loss of Appetite: If your dog isn’t interested in food, it may be because its system is backed up and constipated.
Lethargy: If your dog is tired and doesn’t want to move around, this could be a sign that it’s constipated.
Distended or Painful Stomach: If your dog’s stomach is bloated or feels hard to the touch, this could be a sign of constipation.
No Stool in 1 to 2 Days: One of the most obvious signs of constipation is no stool production for a day or two. If your dog hasn’t had a bowel movement in this time frame, it’s likely to be constipated.
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it’s time to start gently treating your pup for constipation.
How Much Miralax Can Dogs Have?
For small dogs, vets prescribe an eighth to a quarter teaspoon, for medium dogs, a half to a third spoonful and for large dogs, it is an eighth to a third spoonful. Two doses per day are recommended for dogs, in 12-hour increments.
You can mix Miralax powder with their dog food, making it easier to administer. It may also have a gentler effect since it is diluted into the food. Once you’ve given your dog the appropriate dose, make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water so they can stay hydrated. Due to the nature of this medication, it can dehydrate your pup.
How Often Can Dogs Have Miralax?
Don’t use Miralax as a regular supplement for your dog’s constipation. Use it on occasion when you need a fast-acting solution to help your dog pass stool. This shouldn’t be more frequent than once a month.
If you find that your dog is constipated often, speak with a veterinarian about other options for long-term constipation relief.
Alternatives to Miralax for Constipation in Dogs
While Miralax doesn’t have any known serious side effects, some dog owners prefer to avoid medication whenever possible. If you’re looking for alternatives to Miralax for your dog, there are a few options:
Fiber Supplements
Adding a fiber supplement to your dog’s diet can help with constipation. It supports your dog’s digestive system and can make it easier for it to pass a stool. You can purchase these supplements at most pet stores or online.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for your dog’s gut health. They can help increase the number of healthy bacteria in your dog’s digestive tract, which can ease constipation. You can get probiotics in the form of powders, pills, treats, and even in dog food formulas.
Exercise
Adding more exercise to your dog’s routine can also help with constipation. Exercise helps stimulate the digestive system and can make it easier for your dog to have a bowel movement.
Diet Change
Sometimes, all your dog needs is a change in diet to ease constipation. Adding more fiber-rich foods or switching to a food that’s easy to digest can help. You can also try adding canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) to your dog’s food, which can help with constipation.
Increase Hydration
Making sure your dog stays hydrated is also important for easing constipation. Dogs need fresh water available at all times. You can even add broth to their bowl to encourage them to drink more. Just make sure that the broth is unseasoned and low-sodium. This will help replace electrolytes that may be lost due to dehydration.
Give Your Pup a Bit of Olive or Hemp Oil
Adding a bit of olive or hemp oil to your dog’s food can also help with constipation. The oil will lubricate their intestines and make it easier for them to pass stool. Just make sure not to give your dog too much, as this can cause diarrhea. Start with a quarter teaspoon and increase the amount if needed.
Feed Your Pup Vegetables
Vegetables are a great source of fiber, which can help with constipation. You can give your dog cooked vegetables like green beans, carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash. You can also feed them raw vegetables like cucumbers and celery. Just make sure to chop them up into small pieces so they can easily eat them.