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Metamucil and Benadryl for Anal Gland Problems

Reader Question
My vet suggested Metamucil along with Benadryl to keep glands clean. I feed my dogs Purina Pro PLAN. they get tiny tasty tid bits from table occasionally. What is your opinion on this treatment or suggestions? When they go for yearly check up the glands are always bad and seems to be painful to have them drained. Thanks for any help you can give me!


Answer from Our Team

Both are reasonable ideas to try under your vet's guidance. Fiber such as psyllium can bulk up the stool so the glands empty naturally; it's low risk, though studies haven't proven it prevents anal gland problems. Antihistamines are sometimes tried because allergies often contribute, but they don't help most allergic dogs much. Stick to your vet's dose and make sure any antihistamine has no added decongestant or xylitol (found in some liquid forms), and use plain, unflavored fiber.

If the glands are painful at every checkup, ask your vet whether they're infected and whether flushing and medicating the sacs, or allergy testing and treatment, would help. Table scraps are unlikely to be the main cause, but keeping treats small helps stool quality.

See anal gland treatment.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.

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