Medicine for Dogs That Cough Up Hair Balls
Hairballs are a common problem many pet owners associate with cats, but hairballs affect dogs as well. Hairballs occur when a dog licks his fur and that fur enters his digestive tract creating a clump. The dog will then cough the hair ball up or pass it in his stool.
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Description
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Medication given for canine hairballs is usually an oral laxative/lubricant composed of an oil (petrolatum, cod liver or soybean), with a flavoring agent to make it palatable to the dog.
Effects
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Canine hairball medication relieves discomfort caused by hairballs and aids the dog in eliminating the hairball from his digestive tract.
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Benefits
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Dog hairball medication is formulated to taste good, making it easy to administer. This medication also helps to relieve constipation in dogs, so it serves a dual purpose.
Alternatives
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Ground psyllium husk (Metamucil) is a natural fiber source for your dog's diet which helps dogs pass hairballs through bowel movements. Ask your veterinarian for dosage information.
Warning
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Be sure to consult your veterinarian for any health problems your dog experiences, and before administering hairball medication.
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