Anionic surfactant that reduces surface tension of stool, allowing water and fat to penetrate the fecal mass, softening it and making passage easier. Mild laxative with no stimulant effects on intestinal motility.
At a glance
Class
Stool Softener / Emollient Laxative
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C
Dosing
Mild stool softener for constipation, megacolon prevention, and post-anal surger
Useful for mild-moderate constipation
Safety
Stool frequency and consistencyHydration status
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Docusate Sodium?
Docusate Sodium is a stool softener / emollient laxative used in pets. Anionic surfactant that reduces surface tension of stool, allowing water and fat to penetrate the fecal mass, softening it and making passage easier. Mild laxative with no stimulant effects on intestinal motility.
›What is Docusate Sodium used for in pets?
Docusate Sodium is used in veterinary medicine for: Mild stool softener for constipation, megacolon prevention, and post-anal surger; Useful for mild-moderate constipation.
›What is the Docusate Sodium dose for dogs?
For dogs, Docusate Sodium is typically dosed as follows — Mild stool softener for constipation, megacolon prevention, and post-anal surger: 50–200 mg PO/Rectal q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Docusate Sodium dose for cats?
For cats, Docusate Sodium is typically dosed as follows — Useful for mild-moderate constipation: undefined undefined PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Docusate Sodium need a prescription?
Docusate Sodium is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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