Is MiraLAX safe for cats?

In this article:

• What is MiraLAX used for in cats?
• Is MiraLAX safe for cats?
• MiraLAX dosage for cats
• MiraLAX alternatives for cats

In this article

• What is MiraLAX used for in cats?
• Is MiraLAX safe for cats?
• MiraLAX dosage for cats
• MiraLAX alternatives for cats

Just like their owners, our furry friends can become constipated. If your cat is straining to go, you may be surprised to learn that MiraLAX, an over-the-counter (OTC) medication taken by humans, can also work for cats. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about giving your cat MiraLAX to help with feline constipation. 

RELATED: Save up to 80% on MiraLAX

What is MiraLAX used for in cats?

“MiraLAX is commonly used in cats to help with constipation or to soften the stool,” explains Bethany Hsia, DVM, veterinarian and co-founder of CodaPet. “It works by drawing water into the colon, which softens the stool and makes it easier for the cat to poop.”

MiraLAX (or generic polyethylene glycol) is an over-the-counter osmotic laxative used to treat occasional constipation. The same MiraLAX you may already have in your bathroom cabinet could also treat your cat.

Is MiraLAX safe for cats?

“MiraLAX is generally considered safe for use in cats when prescribed (and following instructions),” says Dr. Hsia.

However, like any medication, MiraLAX has side effects, and cats with certain conditions should not take it. “It shouldn’t be used in cats that are dehydrated or at a greater risk of becoming dehydrated, such as those with kidney disease,” says Chyrle Bonk, DVM, a veterinarian with Dogster. “Cats taking diuretics for heart or other issues should use Miralax with caution.”

Before giving your cat anything for constipation, you should first seek veterinary care. Your veterinarian can look into any possible underlying causes, such as megacolon (the nerves in the colon do not work properly) or obstipation (chronic constipation that can cause hard, dry feces that cause blockages).

Your local veterinary medicine practice may also want to take blood work or perform X-rays to ensure there are no obstructions in the cat’s digestive tract. This would be one of the more severe cases of constipation and could require surgery. A urinary blockage can also be confused for constipation, so it is important to have the correct diagnosis before starting MiraLAX.

Side effects of MiraLAX in cats

Common side effects of MiraLAX in cats include:

• Diarrhea
• Loose stool
• Gas
• Abdominal discomfort or cramping
• Nausea

More serious side effects in cats taking MiraLAX may include:

• Vomiting
• Dehydration
• Low sodium levels
• High potassium levels

If your cat shows these more serious side effects, stops drinking water, or becomes lethargic, it is important to stop giving your cat MiraLAX immediately. Your next step is to contact your veterinarian to see if your cat needs further medical attention.

Interactions of MiraLAX with other pet meds

There are some interactions to consider before giving your cat MiraLAX. It should not be combined with other laxatives or diuretics, which can lead to dehydration. If your cat is prescribed opioids, tricyclic antidepressants, or atropine injections, you should speak to your veterinarian before administering MiraLAX.

MiraLAX dosage for cats

“The common dosage of MiraLAX for cats is typically around one-eighth to one-quarter teaspoon per day,” says Dr. Hsiu. Some cats may also benefit from taking the laxative twice daily. MiraLAX can be given for just a few days or up to three weeks. “The amount should be prescribed by your veterinarian and it might depend on your cat’s size and condition severity,” says Dr. Hsiu. This is the same MiraLAX that humans take and can be found at your local pharmacy or drugstore.

Can cats overdose on MiraLAX?

As with any drug, it is possible to give your cat too much MiraLAX, leading to an overdose. Signs of overdose include “sticky or dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, decreased urine production, and a skin tent,” says Dr. Bonk. “Never give your cat Miralax unless under the supervision of a vet, and contact them anytime you suspect something is off with your cat.”

However, “the most common issue with Miralax is dehydration since it draws water into the colon to soften feces,” says Dr. Bonk. If your cat begins showing any of these symptoms, contact your pet’s veterinary practice immediately.

Can I give my cat MiraLAX every day?

Yes, typically, you can give a healthy cat MiraLAX every day. Depending on its condition, your cat can take a one-eighth to one-quarter teaspoon dose of MiraLAX once to twice each day for a few days or up to three weeks. Like any medical treatment, it is important to discuss new medications with your pet’s veterinarian before beginning treatment.

How to give your cat MiraLAX

Administering MiraLAX to your cat is actually quite simple. Since MiraLAX is a liquid or a powder, you can mix it into your cat’s wet food. Since they are given such a small amount, it should not affect the flavor too much, so even picky eaters should not notice much of a difference.

When your cat has relief and is finally able to have a bowel movement, you can stop MiraLAX without tapering it down before discontinuing use. If you miss a dose of MiraLAX, give your cat the medication in the next meal.

MiraLAX alternatives for cats

There are alternatives to MiraLAX if you want to try other options to deal with your cat’s constipation. These may include the following:

• Ask your vet about other laxatives or stool softeners for cats. Common laxatives given to cats include Katalax, Lactulose, Laxapet, and Microlax. Other medications may include Cisapride, which helps treat constipation, and megacolon.
• Encourage your cat to drink more water. Dehydration can cause constipation. If your cat does not drink water frequently and has poor water intake, try offering fresh water more often with plenty of full bowls around the house. Some cats may prefer a cat water fountain. You can also add a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth or tuna juice to their water to make hydration more enticing.
• Consider a new diet with more fiber. Too little fiber in the cat’s diet is another leading cause of constipation. Ask your veterinarian about cat food options that include additional fiber for smoother bowel movements without the strain. One simple way to add more fiber to the cat’s day is to sprinkle psyllium husk powder onto their meal before feedings.
• Ask your vet about cat enemas. An enema is also an option for a constipated cat. Enemas help by pulling water from and lubricating the colon. Enemas are best performed before the feces are too hard or impacted. Human enemas found over the counter at the drug store can be dangerous for cats, so talk to your vet first to make sure you have a feline-specific version.
• Groom your cat. Cats may form hairballs from grooming, which can lead to constipation. You can brush your cat frequently to help reduce the frequency of hairballs. A diet high in fiber can also help with the formation of hairballs, according to some studies.

MiraLAX might be right for your cat if it is experiencing constipation and struggling or straining at the litter box when trying to defecate. MiraLAX is safe for most cats if given in the appropriate dosage, but it is important to check in with your veterinarian first. This helps ensure that taking MiraLAX will be safe for your cat and there are no other underlying health conditions.