Pseudocoprostasis in Dogs

Pseudocoprostasis in Dogs

By: PetPlace Veterinarians

Section: Overview

Pseudocoprostasis is a condition that occurs when fecal matter becomes matted in the hair surrounding the anal opening. Complete obstruction of the anus can occur.

Once the feces and matted hair have covered and obstructed the anal opening, the passage of additional feces becomes quite difficult. Defecation becomes difficult and can become painful. The fecal matter is in constant close contact with the skin and can result in skin irritations and infections. Constipation then ensues. If left untreated, it is possible for flies to lay eggs on the fecal mass resulting in maggot infestation of the anal area.

This condition is most common in longhaired breeds of dogs and most often occurs if the dog has diarrhea.

What to Watch For

  • Straining to defecate
  • Scooting bottom across floor
  • Vomiting
  • Poor appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Foul or fecal odor to cat
  • Large amount of matted hair around anus

    Diagnosis

    Diagnosis is typically based on physical exam findings. A large fecal and hair mass obstructing the anal opening is definitive.

    Treatment

    The primary treatment is to remove the fecal and hair mass. Shaving the anal area is usually required. The skin surrounding the anus may need medical treatment and ointments for irritation.

    A stool sample is evaluated microscopically to check for any intestinal parasites. The presence of parasites, if left untreated, may result in reoccurrence of this condition.

    If vomiting and poor appetite has resulted in dehydration, fluid support may be needed. Few petsStain and Odor Remover
    Nature's Miracle Stain and Odor Remover is Guaranteed to remove pet accident stains and odors that other products fail to remove including old uri...
    with pseudocoprostasis will require hospitalization.

    Removal of maggots may also be necessary.

    Home Care and Prevention

    The primary home care is to remove the fecal mass obstructing the anus. Place the dog in the bathtub and spray warm waterFresh Flow Pet Fountain
    Pets are naturally attracted to fresh flowing water. This unique silent fountain won’t scare your pet when drinking from bowl or ramp. Ultra Qui...
    on the fecal mass. This will usually slowly remove the feces from the hair. Thoroughly cleaning the anal area with mild dish soap will also remove residual fecal material. Consider seeking a groomer to clip the hair around the anus to reduce reoccurrence.

    Take a stool sample to your family veterinarian for analysis. Making sure that intestinal parasites are not present will help diminish reoccurrence.

    Preventing fecal material from becoming matted in the hair is key to preventing this condition. Frequent cleaning of the anal area may be necessary for some pets, especially if you notice diarrhea.

     
    Printable Version
     
    Have a Pet Question?
    Send Your Pet Question to Dr. Jon
    and His Staff of Veterinarians Ask Dr. Jon
    Dr. Jon's Newsletter
    Yes! Send Me the Latest Health Information, Pet Tips, Pet Stories and more...
     
     

    Related Articles

    • 1 Chronic Diarrhea in Dogs

      Diarrhea is defined as rapid movement of fecal matter through the intestines. This usually results in poor absorption of water, nutrients and electrolytes and, consequently, loose, runny stools. Chronic...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 2 Acute Diarrhea in Dogs

      Acute diarrhea in dogs is one of the most common clinical problems seen in veterinary practice. It is characterized by a sudden onset and short duration (three weeks or less) of watery or watery-mucoid...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 3 Constipation in Dogs

      Although it is not unusual for a normal dog to have a bout or two of constipation over the course of their lives, it is not normal or acceptable for them to have recurring problems.

      Read MoreRead More
  • Related Articles
    • 1Acute Diarrhea in Dogs

      Acute diarrhea in dogs is one of the most common clinical problems seen in veterinary practice. It is characterized by a sudden onset and short duration (three weeks or less) of watery or watery-mucoid...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 2Chronic Diarrhea in Dogs

      Diarrhea is defined as rapid movement of fecal matter through the intestines. This usually results in poor absorption of water, nutrients and electrolytes and, consequently, loose, runny stools. Chronic...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 3Constipation in Dogs

      Although it is not unusual for a normal dog to have a bout or two of constipation over the course of their lives, it is not normal or acceptable for them to have recurring problems.

      Read MoreRead More
     

    Over 10,000 Veterinarian Approved Articles

    Related Articles
    • 1Acute Diarrhea in Dogs

      Acute diarrhea in dogs is one of the most common clinical problems seen in veterinary practice. It is characterized by a sudden onset and short duration (three weeks or less) of watery or watery-mucoid...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 2Chronic Diarrhea in Dogs

      Diarrhea is defined as rapid movement of fecal matter through the intestines. This usually results in poor absorption of water, nutrients and electrolytes and, consequently, loose, runny stools. Chronic...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 3Constipation in Dogs

      Although it is not unusual for a normal dog to have a bout or two of constipation over the course of their lives, it is not normal or acceptable for them to have recurring problems.

      Read MoreRead More