constipation

[barton]

Just wanted a second opinion...
Gwen has trouble going bathroom her stool is a good consistancy but its really huge and sometimes she squeals when trying to push it out...should i put flax oil on her food to loosen it up? if yes how often would i do this?
\any info would be appreciated
cheers

[PrettyHate]

Im not really sure what the best route to go is...but is it possible she isnt getting enough fiber in her diet?

Im not sure if the flax seed would help things move more smoothly so to speak...but it wouldnt hurt to try. Dont go too over board with it as someone once told me that flax seed also reduces the bloods ability to clot.

If she is really having problems, and seems to be in pain, I would probably call the vet. It must be rather uncomfortable for her if she is squeeling...

[barton]

THanks for the advice, i am sure it is possible that her pregnancy might be causing part of the problem, i put a little flax oil on her food lastnight i will probably just do it every now and hten to break things up so they pass easier.... as for the fiber any tips? perhaps i should go the veggie root and feed her more baby food veggies (cause she wont eat regular veggies)

any thoughts would be appreciated

[paris26]

What about giving her a little babyfood prunes? Poor girl!

[barton]

hmmm good thinking maybe i will try that out...i mean for her not me

[hedgewood]

I've also read that (if she will eat it) you could try bran flakes or some sort of bran cereal mixed in with her food.

[CaptainWhitaker]

I've also read that (if she will eat it) you could try bran flakes or some sort of bran cereal mixed in with her food.

I've heard that too. Grape Nuts cereal (or probably ANY bran based cereal. I'm not sure about grape nuts, since I don't think Hedgies are supposed to eat nuts/raisins) sprinkled on top of their regular meal provides a good fiber boost.

[bloane]

Canned pumpkin (the non-spiced version) is a very good source of fiber, and often helps a lot when a hedgehog is constipated.
Becca

[originalcopy]

^About how much is a good portion to give of the canned pumpkin and how often? Would it be alright to just sprinkle regular ole bran over their food, rather than a bran based cereal?

[bloane]

um, I would probably go with about half a teaspoon or so for starters. If she still has problems, up it a bit. I would assume that a little bit of bran would be ok, but I don't know for sure.
Becca