Natural Laxatives for Dogs With Kidney Disease

Kidney disease can impact nearly all aspects of a dog's life, including treating minor ailments like constipation. Talk with your veterinarian to ensure that any natural laxatives you pursue are safe with your pet's medications or diet.

Causes

Constipation is often caused by diet and dehydration. Other causes include lack of exercise, ingesting foreign objects (such as hair), or a side effect of medication.

Pumpkin

Canned pumpkin, being high in both fiber and water, is a safe food to add to a dog's meal as a natural laxative. Use the following dosages: Less than 15 lbs., 1 to 2 tsp.; 15 to 35 lbs., 1 to 2 tbsp.; 35 lbs. and up, 2 to 5 tbsp.

Bran

Oat and wheat bran are both high in fiber and can be added to a dog's food to assist with bowel movements. Speak to your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage for your dog.

Vegetables

Vegetables, being high in water and fiber content, can also have a laxative effect. Dogs can eat broccoli, celery, spinach, carrots and other vegetables.

Milk

A small amount of milk (less than one cup) can have a laxative effect on dogs, since most are unable to properly digest lactose. Milk can cause diarrhea in dogs with normal stools, and can be a laxative for constipated pets.

References

• Animal Hospitals USA: Dog Constipation
• Pawprints and Purrs: Chronic Kidney Failure in Dogs
• Earth Clinic Folk Remedies: Constipation Remedies for Pets