Sterculia
Sterculia is a **bulk-forming laxative** used in veterinary medicine to manage impacted anal sacs, diarrhoea, constipation, and to control stool consistency post-surgery. It is a natural dietary fibre derived from the Sterculia tree. > **Clinical Warning:** Must be administered with plenty of water or a moist diet, as the preparation swells upon contact with fluid and could cause obstruction if given dry.
Mechanism: Sterculia acts as a **bulk-forming agent**. It is inert and not absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. It absorbs water → swells to form a gelatinous mass → increases **faecal mass** and volume → mechanically stimulates **peristalsis** and promotes normal bowel movements.
Dosing by species
- Management of impacted anal sacs, diarrhoea, constipation, and post-surgery stool consistency · 1.5 g (dogs <5 kg); 3 g (5-15 kg); 4 g (>15 kg) · PO · q24h (<5 kg) or q12-24h (≥5 kg) · As directed · Sprinkle over feed or place on tongue.
- Management of impacted anal sacs, diarrhoea, constipation, and post-surgery stool consistency · 1 capsule (118 mg) · PO · q24h (kittens) or q12h (adults) · As directed · Administer with plenty of water or moist food.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Routes of administration
Contraindications
- Intestinal obstruction
- Patients undergoing enterotomy
- Patients undergoing enterectomy
Adverse effects
- Generally well tolerated
- Risk of esophageal or intestinal obstruction if administered without adequate water
Monitoring
- Stool consistency and frequency
- Water intake
- Signs of GI obstruction (vomiting, abdominal pain, tenesmus)
Overdose
Overdosage may lead to **gastrointestinal obstruction** or severe constipation, especially if water intake is inadequate. Treatment is supportive, focusing on rehydration and facilitating the passage of the bulk mass.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.