The milk of magnesia is a popular over the counter remedy for human indigestion (acidic stomach), and in the right dose it is a remedy for constipation. We use it often, but can you give milk of magnesia for dogs, and is it safe? Lets take a closer look.
If youve been wondering, “can I give my dog milk of magnesia,” the answer is YES – technically, you can give milk of magnesia to dogs and its not toxic to them. In fact, it often is used with dogs and horses in veterinary practice.
Milk of magnesia is made of Magnesium Hydroxide in a suspension of water. You need to really shake the bottle before opening it for use. Milk of Magnesia has recently been approved for use in animals as well.
Milk of Magnesia is used to help dogs with stomach acid and constipation, the “double duty” action (antacid or constipation) depends on the dose you need to use for the different ailments. You should contact your vet to get the proper dosage.
Can I give my dog milk of magnesia?
Dogs can have milk of magnesia. Although milk of magnesia is safe for dogs, check with your vet before giving it to your pet. Milk of magnesia can help treat symptoms in your dog such as constipation, acid reflux, flatulence, irregular bowels, hard, misshapen or discolored stools, itching or bleeding around the anus, and gastric reflux.
How milk of magnesia works in your dog (as an antacid)
Magnesium neutralizes acids in your dog’s stomach. The combination of both hydroxide and acidic ions creates water, helping to neutralize the stomach acid in your pup’s digestive tract. This helps reduce acid indigestion and alleviate any digestive pain your dog is experiencing.
What Exactly is Milk of Magnesia?
Milk of magnesia is essentially a laxative that comes in liquid form and contains the active ingredient of magnesium hydroxide. It’s an ingredient that is commonly used in over-the-counter medications to help aid in issues with stomach acid and constipation.
The magnesium hydroxide is combined with water, so it needs to be shaken well before use. It’s usually relatively harmless and has negligible side effects, and is great for heartburn, constipation, and acid reflux.
FAQ
How much milk of magnesia should I give to my dog?
Is milk of magnesia good for constipation for dogs?
In fact, there is a veterinary version of this antacid/laxative (made for horses and canines) that relieves indigestion, gastric reflux and mild constipation. OTC Milk of Magnesia is actually one of the safer conventional medicines for dogs.
How long does milk of magnesia take to work for dogs?