Megacolon in dogs is a medical condition that comes about when extra waste is left in a dog’s colon. In turn, the condition can cause extremely severe constipation.
This can be either an acquired condition, meaning a dog develops it later in life, or a congenital condition, which is present from birth.
If you see signs that your dog is developing digestive issues, then you must consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and advice. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of megacolon in dogs.
Symptoms Of Megacolon In Dogs
Megacolon in dogs can produce a range of symptoms that mostly affect a dog’s ability to defecate. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Constipation
- Straining a lot while trying to defecate
- Vomiting
- Losing weight
- Passing very hard and very dry stools
- Dehydration
Causes Of Megacolon In Dogs
The cause of megacolon in dogs can be one of a number of things. In some cases, the precise cause is unknown, or idiopathic, while in other cases, the condition is inherited.
Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Suffering a bodily trauma
- Neurological diseases
- Anus diseases
- Reaction to certain drugs, including Barium and Antacids
Veterinary Treatments
If you suspect that your dog has developed megacolon, your veterinarian will want to carry out a full physical examination and order comprehensive blood tests. They’ll pay special attention to examining the abdomen and the rectum.
Vets can also use a radiograph to properly analyze the colon.
Once the vet confirms their diagnosis, it is common for a dog to spend a period of time in hospital and to receive fluid therapy. This can help to rehydrate a dog. After this, the vet will manually clear out the dog’s colon.
In terms of lifestyle changes, vets often advise that dogs who are prone to this condition receive adequate exercise and also consume a high fiber diet. Your vet may also suggest nutritional supplements.
Has your dog developed megacolon? How are you and your vet helping your dog recover? Tell us all about it in the comments below.
