Dogs are known for a lot of things: being loyal, being man’s best friend, and getting cramps on their periods. Wait, what? Yes, it’s true! Dogs can get cramps during their menstrual cycles, just like women do. In this blog post, we will explore the topic of canine menstruation in more detail. We will discuss the symptoms that dogs experience during their periods, as well as how to help them feel better. Stay tuned for more information!
Do Dogs Get Cramps on Their Periods?
Yes, it’s common for female dogs to experience cramps while menstruating. This is because the uterus is contracting and shedding the lining that has built up over the course of the estrus (heat) cycle.
This estrus cycle occurs every six to eight months and lasts for about three weeks. During this time, the dog’s body prepares for pregnancy. If the dog does not become pregnant, the uterus will shed its lining – this is what we call a “period.”
Here are some common symptoms of cramps in dogs:
Restlessness
Restlessness is a common symptom of menstrual cramps in dogs. Since there are contractions, your dog may intuitively want to pace and move around the home to help ease the discomfort.
Vocalization
Another symptom of cramps is vocalization. Dogs may whimper or cry out during a contraction as their uterus tightens. This is their way of trying to communicate that something isn’t quite right.
Mood Swings
Many women can attest to the fact that their moods tend to be all over the place during their periods. The same goes for dogs! Hormone changes during a dog’s estrus cycle can cause them to act out of character – they may be unusually snappy or aggressive, especially if there are other dogs in the home aggravating them.
Hiding
Many dogs will try to find a quiet, secluded spot to ride out the storm of cramps. This may be under a bed, in a closet, or in a corner of the room. Your pup may also want more privacy than usual and may be less interested in cuddling or being around people.
Appetite Changes
Some dogs will experience a decrease in appetite during their periods, while others may eat more than usual. Either way, it’s important to make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times and is eating a balanced diet at this time.
Shivering
Many dogs will also shiver or shake when they have cramps. This is their body’s way of trying to warm up and relax the muscles. It can also help to relieve any bodily tension your pup may be experiencing.
Lethargy
Just like in humans, your female pup will likely be tired and want to sleep more during her period. This is due to the hormonal changes that are taking place in her body. Allow your dog to rest and recuperate as needed.
How to Relieve Dog Period Cramps
If your dog is experiencing cramps, there are a few things you can do to help ease her discomfort:
Give Her a Massage
Gently massaging your dog’s abdomen can help to relax the muscles and ease the pain. You can learn how to do this by watching videos or reading articles online. Your vet may also be able to show you how to properly massage your dog’s belly.
Apply Heat
Applying heat to the area can also help to relax the muscles and ease the pain. You can do this by placing a heating pad at low heat against your dog’s stomach. Make sure not to leave the heating pad on for too long, as it could burn your dog.
Exercise
Getting your dog up and moving around may not be the first thing you want to do when she’s feeling crampy, but it can actually help! Exercise releases endorphins, which have pain-relieving properties. Taking a walk or playing fetch are great ways to get your dog moving without overdoing it. Be gentle and let her rest when she needs to.
Pup Approved Prescription Medications
There are also some prescription medications that can help to ease a dog’s cramps. These include:
- Meloxicam
- Etodolac
- Carprofen
- Vet-Approved Doses of Tylenol
It’s important to be careful when giving your dog over-the-counter medication, as it can be toxic to dogs. Tylenol, for example, should only be given in small doses and under the guidance of a veterinarian.
Your pup also shouldn’t be on any prescription painkiller for an extended period of time, which can greatly increase its toxicity. Use these medications sparingly to ensure your dog stays safe.
Natural Remedies
There are also a few natural remedies that can help to ease your dog’s cramps. Many people prefer these over medication, but it’s still important to be cautious.
Some of the most popular natural pain relief options include:
- Ginger root supplements: these can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- CBD oil: this can help to reduce anxiety and pain and has had notable clinical success in dogs.
- Aromatherapy: Using essential oils like lavender or chamomile can help to relax your dog and ease her cramps. You can add a few drops to your dog’s bedding or rub some on its tummy. Make sure it is diluted and skin-safe if you directly apply it.
- Turmeric: This common spice contains curcumin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory. You can add it to your dog’s food or get treats containing this ingredient.
- Valerian: Small amounts of this herb can help to ease anxiety and pain.
- Herbal teas: Teas like chamomile or ginger tea can be given to your dog in small amounts.
As with any medication, it’s important to talk to your vet before giving your dog any natural remedies. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your pup.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is another popular option for pain relief in dogs. This ancient Chinese practice involves placing thin needles into specific points on the body. It’s believed that this can help to release endorphins and improve blood flow.
There are many veterinarians who are trained in acupuncture and can perform this procedure on your dog. If you’re interested in this option, talk to your vet about finding a qualified practitioner in your area.
Do Dogs Get Menstrual Pain?
During your dog’s estrus cycle, it’s possible that she may experience some discomfort. However, this is usually not as severe as the cramps humans experience during their periods. For some dogs, you may not notice any symptoms of cramps at all.
This usually isn’t a medical emergency and the best thing you can do is keep your pup comfortable and in a stress-free environment during this time.
If you see the following symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away:
- Excessive bleeding
- Lethargy
- Extreme aggression or irritation
- Loss of appetite for over 48 hours
- Vomiting or diarrhea for over 24 hours
These could be signs of a more serious problem and will require medical attention.
Do Dogs Get Period Cravings?
Just like humans, dogs can experience cravings during their periods. This is likely due to the fluctuating hormone levels that occur during this time and their need for comfort.
If your dog is experiencing cravings, it’s best to give her small, frequent meals throughout the day instead of one large meal. This will help to keep her blood sugar levels stable and prevent her from overeating.
You can also give your dog healthy snacks to help satisfy her cravings. Just be sure to avoid giving her too many treats, as this can lead to weight gain or even more menstrual discomfort.