Soluble fiber derived from Plantago ovata seed husks that absorbs water in the GI tract, increasing fecal bulk and softening stool. Also useful for diarrhea by absorbing excess water and increasing stool consistency.
At a glance
Class
Bulk-Forming Laxative / Fiber Supplement
Storage
Store in cool, dry place — moisture degrades product
Dosing
Useful for constipation, small bowel diarrhea (fiber supplementation), and peria
Used for feline constipation and megacolon management
Safety
Stool consistency and frequencyWater intake
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Psyllium?
Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative / fiber supplement used in pets. Soluble fiber derived from Plantago ovata seed husks that absorbs water in the GI tract, increasing fecal bulk and softening stool. Also useful for diarrhea by absorbing excess water and increasing stool consistency.
›What is Psyllium used for in pets?
Psyllium is used in veterinary medicine for: Useful for constipation, small bowel diarrhea (fiber supplementation), and peria; Used for feline constipation and megacolon management.
›What is the Psyllium dose for dogs?
For dogs, Psyllium is typically dosed as follows — Useful for constipation, small bowel diarrhea (fiber supplementation), and peria: undefined undefined PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Psyllium dose for cats?
For cats, Psyllium is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline constipation and megacolon management: 5–20 mL PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Psyllium need a prescription?
Psyllium 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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