Psyllium
Also known as: Metamucil, Equi-Psyllium, Sandclear, Vetasyl
> **CRITICAL**: Your pet must have free and constant access to fresh water while taking this supplement. Without enough water, psyllium can swell in the throat or intestines and cause a dangerous blockage. * **Administration**: For dogs and cats, mixing the powder or granules with canned/wet food is highly recommended to ensure adequate moisture intake. * **When to call the vet**: Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet begins vomiting, shows signs of abdominal pain, or is straining to defecate without producing stool. * **Patience**: It may take up to 3 days (72 hours) to see the full laxative effect.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Chronic constipation
- Adjunctive treatment of feline megacolon
- Sand colic
- Sand colic
- Sand impactions
- Trial to treat chronic idiopathic large bowel diarrhea
- To increase fiber in dogs with chronic colitis
- Predominantly large bowel diarrhea (therapeutic trial)
- Dogs prone to constipation
- Adjunct (source of soluble fiber) for treatment of hepatic encephalopathy
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Flatulence
- Esophageal obstruction (if administered with insufficient liquid)
- Bowel obstruction (if administered with insufficient liquid)
Cautions & contraindications
- Rabbits (may damage intestinal mucosa and cause blockage)
- Fecal impaction (no feces being passed)
- Intestinal obstruction
- Conditions where prompt intestinal evacuation is required
- Bulk-forming laxatives must be administered with adequate water. If insufficient liquid is given, there is an increased possibility of esophageal or bowel obstruction occurring. Do not use in rabbits. Safe for use in pregnant and lactating animals (FDA Category B equivalent), as there is no appreciable systemic absorption.
Drug interactions
- Aspirin (and other salicylates): Potential exists for psyllium to bind and reduce absorption if given at the same time; separate doses by 3 hours or more.
- Digoxin: Potential exists for psyllium to bind and reduce absorption if given at the same time; separate doses by 3 hours or more.
- Nitrofurantoin: Potential exists for psyllium to bind and reduce absorption if given at the same time; separate doses by 3 hours or more.
Frequently asked questions
What is Psyllium used for in pets?
> **CRITICAL**: Your pet must have free and constant access to fresh water while taking this supplement. Without enough water, psyllium can swell in the throat or intestines and cause a dangerous blockage. * **Administration**: For dogs and cats, mixing the powder or granules with canned/wet food is highly recommended to ensure adequate moisture intake. * **When to call the vet**: Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet begins vomiting, shows signs of abdominal pain, or is straining to defecate without producing stool. * **Patience**: It may take up to 3 days (72 hours) to see the full laxative effect.
Is Psyllium safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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