Here we will look into animal constipation and using herbal medicine in order to alleviate the concern. We always want to make sure our animals are on a whole and fresh diet to maintain optimal digestion which includes their bowel movements. Constipation is not something to take lightly, if they become backed up, those toxic substances are returning into the blood stream rather than being eliminated. This can result in a number of health conditions that can cause a problem for your animal. That being said, it’s important to always remember that health starts in the gut!
Cats and dogs usually have a daily routine when it comes. to their bowel movements, so it isn’t difficult to notice if something is out of the ordinary. You want to always observe your cats and dogs to see if there is any changes, straining, whimpering or any other indicator that something is concerning. Here are some signs that your animal may be constipated:
- Longer periods of time between bowel movements
- Hard pebble shaped stool found around their living area
- Passing dry stool
- Struggling or straining to pass a bowel movement
- Passing mucus or blood with their stool
- Avoiding food and or vomiting during dry or absent bowel movements
If we become aware of the common causes of constipation, it might help us pin point why our animal is experiencing this in the first place. In holistic medicine, we look for the root cause to address concerns rather than symptoms alone. For example:
- A poor, unbalanced and dry diet with a lack of moisture is the most common cause of constipation
- A diet that is not species appropriate
- Obesity
- Cooked bones (raw bones only)
- Mental health concerns such as stress (a move, trip to the veterinarian etc…)
- Lack of exercise
- Anal gland issues
- Injury
- Intestinal blockages (ingesting inedible objects)
- Prostate problems
- Cancer
- Pelvic or spinal issues
- Muscular weakness
If you suspect something serious and could be an emergency, contact your holistic veterinarian.
Herbal Strategies For Constipation
Fortunately when we approach constipation with herbal medicine it is quite gentle. We still need to make lifestyle changes such as implementing a proper diet, managing their stress, and or more exercise, along with their herbal program which will get the bowels moving efficiently once again. If a poor diet is a factor, herbs used for several months will nourish the animal’s gut microbiome. Keep in mind even if your animal doesn’t have any gut issues, it’s a good idea to nourish their gut microbiome anyway to maintain optimal gut function. The two types herbs commonly used have a gentle laxative action and the other type stimulates the liver to create bile, which will encourage bowel movements.
Gentle Laxative Herbs:
- Chickweed
- Marshmallow Root
- Slippery Elm
- Plantain
- Psyllium Seeds soaked in water to make a gel (never dry, this will worsen the problem by swelling up in the gut)
Bile Producing Herbs:
- Dandelion
- Yellow Dock
- Burdock Root
Stronger Bile Producing Herbs:
- Oregan Grape
- Goldenseal
With these stronger herbs, after a week decrease dose in half.
Keep in mind that you will need to offer the herbs for constipation as decoctions or infusions so they can taste the bitters of the herbs to stimulate their digestive system since digestion starts in the mouth. Add a little herbal tea to each meal or sprinkle a powder form in their food and see if it helps to get things moving. Remember that a poor functioning liver leads to poor bile function which contribute to constipation. The following herbs support the liver and one of these would be needed for long term use:
- Milk Thistle
- Turmeric
- Dandelion Root
- Flaxseed
We can see that a combination of digestive bitters and dietary (nutritive) herbs are the perfect blend for all issues since we are addressing both nutrition and digestion, which is the key to good health and well-being. The simplicity of sprinkling a blend of some of these herbs into your animal’s food bowl each day, makes it easy to stick to for you and your animal. This will help to address current health issues and also, most importantly, prevent against future concerns.
Consult with a holistic veterinarian or holistic practitioner to direct you in the right direction. If you feel you are in the dark and uncertain, holistic practitioners have the expertise and wisdom to direct you to top quality herbal products for your animal. Do not use any remedies if you are not certain which and how to use them, it is best to work with a practitioner.
If you are interested holistic services from Maria for your animal feel free to learn more here.
