When Your Pet Needs an Enema: Why 24/7 Emergency and Urgent Care Matters
Constipation in pets might seem like a minor issue, but when left untreated, it can quickly become painful and even life-threatening. At VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center, our experienced veterinary teams are available 24/7 to provide urgent and emergency care—including enemas—when your pet needs immediate relief.
Here’s what you need to know about enemas for pets, why they’re sometimes necessary, and why timing and professional care are critical.
What Is an Enema and When Is It Needed?
An enema is a procedure used to relieve constipation by introducing fluid into the lower bowel via the rectum. For pets, this is typically done when they are unable to defecate on their own due to blockage, dehydration, dietary issues, or underlying health conditions.
Common signs your pet may need an enema include:
- Straining to defecate with little or no results
- Crying or vocalizing during attempts
- Lethargy or lack of appetite
- Vomiting or signs of abdominal discomfort
- Hardened stool or no bowel movements for over 48 hours
Why Enemas Require Veterinary Supervision
While enemas might sound like a simple fix, they should never be attempted at home without veterinary guidance. Over-the-counter human products can be toxic to animals. Also, forcing an enema when there’s an obstruction, infection, or injury can cause severe complications.
At VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center, we use pet-safe solutions, proper techniques, and diagnostic tools to determine if an enema is appropriate. We also evaluate whether the constipation is a symptom of a more serious issue, such as:
- Intestinal blockage
- Dehydration
- Neurological problems
- Side effects from medications
- Megacolon (especially in cats)
Why Emergency and Urgent Care Matters
Timing is everything when your pet is uncomfortable or in distress. Delaying treatment can cause increased pain, worsened constipation, or even a full intestinal obstruction, which may require surgery.
That’s why VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center is open 24/7. Whether it's the middle of the night or a holiday weekend, our team is ready to:
- Assess the severity of your pet’s condition
- Provide immediate relief when safe and appropriate
- Administer fluids or medications to support recovery
- Run diagnostics such as X-rays to rule out complications
We provide walk-in and extended hour care, ensuring that help is available the moment your pet needs it—not just during traditional business hours.
Enemas Are Often Part of a Bigger Picture
For some pets, one enema might be all they need. For others, repeat constipation may indicate a chronic condition. Our teams not only provide emergency relief but also work with you to understand the root cause and recommend ongoing care strategies—whether it’s dietary changes, hydration support, or follow-up with your primary vet.
Visit VetCheck Anytime—Because Pets Don’t Wait
If you think your pet might need an enema—or if they’re showing any signs of distress—don’t wait for regular vet hours. Visit your nearest VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center. With locations in multiple cities and a focus on 24/7 access to expert care, we’re always here when your pet needs us most.
