Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Can I Give My Dog or Cat Metamucil?

Metamucil (Psyllium)

###Yes, with the proper dosage and diagnosis, Metamucil is safe for dogs and cats. Metamucil is a fiber supplement that many people take regularly to stay, well, regular. It’s an insoluble fiber, meaning that it is not absorbed by the body. Metamucil uses its bulking action to move fecal matter through the gastrointestinal tract—think of it like a giant ball of sand rolling through your intestines, forcing everything out of its path and down the pipes. (Hopefully, you get the picture.) The end result is a nicely formed, consistent bowel movement. Veterinarians may prescribe Metamucil as an adjunctive therapy for dogs or cats that are already undergoing treatment for diarrhea. In conjunction with a bland, highly digestible diet, antibiotics (when indicated), and probiotics, a bulking fiber such as Metamucil may help to firm the stool. However, Metamucil is rarely used as a laxative or stool softener. Flatulence may increase with the use of Metamucil. Metamucil should never be used if an esophageal or other gastrointestinal obstruction is suspected, or in severely dehydrated patients. Metamucil should never be used if a toxic ingestion is suspected. If you do suspect your pet is suffering from constipation, or you are attempting to treat diarrhea at home, do not administer Metamucil without consulting your veterinarian first. The best course of action is to take your pet in for a full physical exam to determine the cause of the abnormal symptoms and then pursue the most appropriate treatment plan. ###If you do decide to use Metamucil, here are a few guidelines: 1. Metamucil comes in a powder form. Use Metamucil Original formula only. Avoid any flavored formulas, especially those containing chocolate or the sweetener xylitol, as these can cause toxicity and severe adverse reactions. 2. Each rounded teaspoon of Metamucil contains 3-4 grams of psyllium. 3. When using Metamucil, it’s important to make sure your pet is consuming enough water and staying well hydrated. 4. For cats, mix 1/2 rounded teaspoon into a small amount of canned food every 12 to 24 hours. The small amount of food ensures that they are more likely to eat the entire dose. 5. For small dogs weighing 20 pounds or less, mix 1 rounded teaspoon into a small amount of canned food or moistened kibble every 12 to 24 hours. 6. For medium to large dogs weighing more than 20 pounds, mix 1-2 rounded teaspoons into a small amount of canned food or moistened kibble every 12 to 24 hours. So, can you give your dog or cat Metamucil? The answer is: Yes! Metamucil is relatively safe when used properly and for the right reasons. If you have any doubt about administering Metamucil to your furry friend, please contact your veterinarian for further recommendations.

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025