Like humans, dogs and cats can also suffer from digestive problems that cause discomfort, discomfort and even serious illness. For this reason, it is important to pay attention to their digestive health and take steps to help them have good digestion.
In this article, we will explain some keys to help your dogs and cats have good digestion, as well as some tips to avoid the most common digestive discomforts.
Provide them with an adequate diet
Food is key to your furry friend's digestive health. Therefore, it is important to provide him with a balanced and appropriate diet according to his age, size and level of physical activity. If your dog or cat is already suffering digestive problemsIn addition to going to the vet to rule out serious pathologies, it is most likely that the diet you are giving is not the most appropriate. It is important to choose a balanced diet based on high-quality foods that do not contain artificial ingredients or preservatives, that is, organically produced.
We present some healthy diet options for dogs and cats that can help maintain their health, have good digestion, and also reduce the possibility of them developing diseases.
Raw diet
The raw diet, also known as the BARF (biologically appropriate raw food) diet, involves feeding dogs and cats raw foods such as meat, bones, fruits and vegetables. This diet is based on the premise that dogs and cats are carnivores and that their digestive system is designed to digest raw foods. This type of diet provides optimal nutrition and can help prevent disease. If you decide to feed your dog or cat a raw diet, be sure to talk to a specialist to make sure you are providing the necessary nutrients, in addition to doing a good transition from your current diet. At Herbalist for animals we offer you natural nutrition consultation and also books on how to make the BARF diet.
Commercial Wet Food Diet
Commercial wet foods, also known as canned or wet food, are a very convenient alternative for humans. These foods contain a greater amount of water than dry feed. Our recommendation is to opt for options with organic certification and, in any case, always read the labels carefully. In our food and snacks section for Dogs o cats, you have some wet food options, mostly with organic certification, and even for dogs with allergies to animal protein (vegan food).
Homemade food diet
Some pet owners prefer to prepare their pets' food at home. If you decide to feed your dog or cat homemade foods, make sure they are nutritionally balanced and contain high-quality proteins, carbohydrates and fats in the right proportions. Additionally, it is important to include additional vitamins and minerals in your diet to ensure you receive all the necessary nutrients.
Again, we recommend that you first consult a nutrition specialist before switching to a home-cooked diet.
Special diets for health problems
If your dog or cat has specific health problems, such as food allergies, digestive problems, kidney or heart disease, they will need a special diet. Again, we insist that investing in a consultation with a veterinarian specialized in nutrition is key to maintaining their health and avoiding complications in animals with chronic health problems. Of course, certain herbal remedies and appropriate nutritional supplements will help you too and you just need to add them to your daily food.
Abundant fresh water
Fresh, clean water is essential for animals' digestive health. Be sure to provide fresh, clean water at all times, and change the water regularly. If your dog or cat drinks a lot of water, you may need to change the water more frequently. You may also find it useful to add a isotonic natural preparation which will provide more hydration and minerals in summer or when your dog or cat has suffered diarrhea, vomiting, etc.
Supplements to help digestive health
Herbal remedies and nutritional supplements can help improve your dog and cat's digestive health. Some of these natural products contain digestive enzymes that help break down food and improve nutrient absorption. Other supplements contain fiber, which helps relieve constipation and improve intestinal health. Here we leave you some supplements that can help your dogs or cats and that you can find on the website of Herbalist for animals.
Digestion (Complexe Digestion) by Floralpina
It is a powdered nutritional supplement that strengthens the digestive system, improving digestion and preventing gas and bloating in dogs and cats. Its ingredients are: thyme 25%, fennel 20%, green anise 20%, boldo 15%, rosemary 10%, Cape aloe 5% and beef aroma 5%.
Lion's mane “hericium erinaceus”
Lion's mane is a medicinal mushroom with stomach protector, regenerating and prebiotic properties. It is indicated in cases of digestive disorders, gastric or duodenal ulcer, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, constipation and neuronal damage. It protects the digestive system, especially against inflammatory processes, allergies and food intolerances, and stimulates neuronal function, to support cognitive health. We offer it to you with organic certification and recommended dosage for dogs and cats.
Slippery Elm Bark Powder for Dogs and Cats
Slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra) powder protects the gastric and intestinal mucous membranes of dogs and cats. It is a natural product that, orally, helps in case of heartburn, reflux, diarrhea and vomiting related to diet and taking medications.
On the other hand, if applied externally, it helps with skin irritations, healing of superficial wounds and minor gum problems.
Oligovital nº4 Digestion
Trace elements are molecules that are found within the body in very small quantities, and are essential in many metabolic processes. Chemically they are metals and they play a very important role because they are vitally involved in allergies, tumors, degenerative diseases, depression and cardiovascular diseases.
Specifically, Oligovital No. 4 Digestion includes the trace element zinc that stimulates digestion, helps regulate weight and appetite, and improves the quality of stool, since this trace element is part of the process that involves the metabolization of fats. , proteins and carbohydrates.
Moorliquid Clay
Its main function is as a gastric protector in dogs and cats. It acts as a water absorbent in the animal's intestine, making the feces harder and stopping diarrhea. This water absorption function causes toxins to be carried away and prevents the proliferation of bacteria. In addition, it helps achieve a healthy intestine and better absorption of nutrients, increasing the vitality of the animal.
It is ideal for dogs and cats with chronic intestinal inflammation (IBD) or Crohn's syndrome, for intestinal problems or stomach acidity, to stimulate the growth of the intestinal flora and mucosa, to prevent constipation, incontinence and flatulence, in case of colic and, in general, to improve the absorption of nutrients.
Amyladol: digestive enzymes
AmylaDol is a supplement in tablets that contains digestive enzymes such as amylase (destroys carbohydrates), lipase (destroys fats and oils), protease (destroys proteins) to regulate digestive disorders in dogs and cats. It is also recommended for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.
Intestim by PerNaturam for cats
This powder supplement for cats relieves the spasms of gastroenteritis and slow digestion with vomiting and nausea. It prevents the growth of unwanted germs and protozoa (coccidia) in the digestive tract and helps reduce the effects of poisoning and diarrhea. In addition, it favors the expulsion of intestinal parasites.
Other tips to avoid stomach problems in dogs and cats
Don't give them leftovers
Giving your dog or cat leftovers can be a temptation, especially when they make those little faces at you, right? Well, you must resist and not give them your food for their own good. Especially if they are very spicy, fatty or sugary foods such as fried meat, pizza or pastries. These foods are difficult to digest and can cause diarrhea or constipation. In addition, these habits promote overweight, in fact it is estimated that they can affect almost 40% of dogs and cats.
Control snacks and prizes
The snacks and prizes They are a great way to motivate and reward animals, but they can also be a source of digestive problems if your dog or cat overeats them or they are inappropriate for their age or size. Make sure you choose snacks appropriate to their age and size, and keep track of how many you give them! Avoid treats that contain artificial ingredients, as they can be difficult to digest and harm your health in the long run, and always opt for natural.
Avoid sudden changes in diet
If you need to change your furry friend's diet, do it gradually. Sudden changes in diet can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or constipation. Introduce the new food gradually, mixing it with the old food for a few days until your pet gets used to the new food. Supplements are also very useful probiotics and certain herbal remedies.
Maintain a regular eating schedule
Maintaining a regular eating schedule can help regulate the digestive system. Make sure you feed at the same times every day and avoid feeding between meals. This will help maintain a regular rhythm in your digestive system and reduce the risk of digestive problems.
Encourage regular exercise
Lastly, but very importantly, encourage regular exercise, as it influences physical and emotional well-being, and also digestive health. Exercise helps keep the digestive system moving and reduces the risk of constipation and other digestive problems. Make sure you provide plenty of physical activity and play!
