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By Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Certified pet nutritionist in Singapore
QUICK ANSWER
Fibre keeps your pet's digestion moving, feeds their good gut bacteria, and helps form healthy stools. Dogs and cats don't need a lot, but the right amount from the right sources makes a real difference, and too much can cause problems too.
What fibre does
✓ Forms healthy stools: it adds bulk and holds water.
✓ Feeds good gut bacteria: they turn fibre into short-chain fatty acids that nourish the gut lining.
✓ Supports regular bowel movements and natural anal gland emptying.
✓ Helps pets feel full, which supports a healthy weight.
✓ Moves hair through the gut, which helps with hairballs in cats.
Natural fibre sources
- Plain pumpkin: gentle, and good for both loose stools and constipation
- Coconut chips: unsweetened coconut fibre. Read more in my guide on coconut fibre.
- Leafy greens and lightly cooked vegetables: blended or finely chopped for easier digestion
- Raw meaty bones and fur or feathers, for raw-fed pets: a natural, species-appropriate source of bulk. Pawff Raw Meaty Bone Grinds make it easy.
A word of caution on psyllium husk
Psyllium husk is now added to many pet food formulas and gut supplements, so many pets are getting it every day without their parents realising. I'm cautious with it.
In pets with sensitive guts, bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or leaky gut, added fibre like psyllium can make bloating, cramping and constipation worse. Whether it suits an IBS-type condition also depends on the type: it may help some pets with loose, watery stools, but can make things worse for pets who tend towards constipation.
Check the labels of your pet's food and supplements, and if you use it, keep it short-term, in small amounts, with plenty of water.
Not all fibre is equal
Some fibre sources, especially grains and legumes, contain phytic acid, which can bind minerals like zinc, iron and calcium, making them harder to absorb. Coconut fibre is naturally low in phytic acid, which makes it a gentle choice.
Getting the balance right
Signs of too little fibre
Constipation, scooting, or soft, poorly formed stools.
Signs of too much fibre
Large, frequent stools, gas, bloating, or constipation if there isn't enough water.
Fibre isn't one-size-fits-all. Pets with sensitive guts, leaky gut or bacterial overgrowth may do worse with more fibre, not better, so it's worth looking at the root cause first. Add fibre gradually, start small, and always pair it with plenty of moisture. Read more in my guide on constipation.
Do cats need fibre?
Cats are strict carnivores, so they need much less fibre than dogs. A small amount still helps with hairballs and stool quality. In the wild, it comes from the fur and feathers of their prey.
Frequently asked questions
How much fibre does my pet need?
It depends on their diet, size and digestion. Start with a small amount and adjust based on their stools. Our PawNutrition builds a balanced fresh-food framework around your pet, including the right fibre.
Can my pet get enough fibre from fresh food alone?
Yes. A balanced fresh diet with the right whole-food fibre sources usually covers it.
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This article is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for veterinary care. If you're concerned about your pet's health, please seek professional advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Judyvein is a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist and Certified Raw Nutrition Coach for Cats & Dogs, and the founder of JOOF Holistic Pet. Her journey began with her Frenchie, Wangcai, and today she helps pet parents in Singapore take a root-cause approach to their pets' health.
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