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Spayed dog constipated from meds? How to help her poop after surgery.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Our 22 lb sheltie spayed 48 hrs ago. Thinking medication has hardened her stool -- three unsuccessful attempts to go. Appt to see vet in 20 hrs. Can we help her in any way now?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 22nd, 2018

You can try adding a tablespoon of pumpkin puree to her food. This will add fiber to her diet, and may help her pass feces. Please do not give her a human laxative or enema, as this is not safe to do. Human laxatives should only be given under strict veterinary supervision, and human enemas contain ingredients that can cause fatal electrolyte imbalances in dogs. If need, the vet can prescribe laxative and give an enema. Having her seen by a vet tomorrow is a good idea. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Jenny, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 19th, 2017

    Depending on the drugs they used to anesthesia, a side effect can be constipation. You can try adding canned pumpkin or green beans to the diet or mixing 1/8 teaspoon of MIralax twice a day to the food the help. IF this does not work then you need to recheck with the vet to see if an enema is needed

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