Ever wonder why your dog’s digestive health is so vital? The digestive system isn’t just about processing food; it's about energy, growth, detoxification, cellular repair, hormone and neurotransmitter production (brain health!), and maintaining a robust immune system. But what happens when things go wrong? Many dogs suffer from poor digestive health, also known as 'dysbiosis,' which is in fact one of the leading causes for trips to the vet. In this article we will explore how to identify gut issues and improve them in epileptic dogs.
Spotting the Signs of a Troubled Tummy
Our dog’s can't tell us when they’re feeling off, but their bodies can. Here’s what to look out for:
Constipation
Diarrhea
Vomiting or regurgitation
Smelly flatulence
Excessive drooling
Reduced appetite
Weight loss
Blood or mucus in stools
Dehydration
Abdominal bloating
Reluctance to move
Hunched posture
Abdominal tenderness
What’s Causing That Upset Gut?
There are many things that can turn your dog’s tummy topsy-turvy. Here are some common culprits:
Medications: Essential but tricky. Acid-lowering medications like proton pump inhibitors can mess with gut bacteria and increase infection risks. Anti-inflammatories can cause stomach ulcers. Antibiotics can wipe out good gut bugs and cause stomach irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and poor appetite. Always talk to your vet if you notice adverse side effects.
Dietary indiscretion: Dogs love scavenging! Whether it’s from the trash or table scraps, eating the wrong things can lead to a quick bout of diarrhea or vomiting. Monitor your dog and note what they might have eaten if they show symptoms.
Abrupt dietary changes: Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to changing diets. A sudden diet change can cause bloating, gas, and loose stools as their gut flora adjusts. Take your time transitioning to new food to help their gut adapt- even that means going up just one tablespoon a day with your new food.
Allergies and intolerances: More and more dogs are reacting to certain foods, causing tummy troubles like diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive gas. An elimination diet, feeding a single protein source for at least eight weeks, can help pinpoint the problem and give the gut time to heal. Read more about how to tell the difference between an allergy and an intolerance here.
Stress: Stress can wreak havoc on your dog's gut, lowering good bacteria and increasing bad ones. It can slow digestion, leading to an upset stomach. Stress from psychological, environmental, and physical sources can alter the gut microbiota, reduce microbial diversity, increase pathogenic bacteria, compromise gut barrier integrity, and cause systemic inflammation.
Have Questions about Epilepsy?
Join our online community of epileptic pet owners who can help you through this journey. We know how stressful it can be caring for an epileptic dog, and we are here to help.
When to Make That Vet Visit
Not all tummy troubles can be solved at home. Sometimes, a trip to the vet is necessary:
Young puppies or senior dogs need extra care.
Dogs with chronic health conditions should always be monitored.
Symptoms of bloat require immediate attention.
Ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, especially with blood, is a red flag.
Abdominal pain and tenderness should not be ignored.
Listlessness and dehydration are serious signs.
It’s always better to be safe and consult your vet if symptoms persist or if you're unsure about what might have triggered the issue.
Boosting Your Dog’s Digestive Health
For mild issues, here are effective ways to support your pup’s digestion:
Whole Food Diet: Give your dog’s gut a natural boost! Dogs on a wholefood diet often have healthier gut microbiota compared to those on kibble. Lower bacterial diversity is linked to gastrointestinal dysbiosis, intestinal inflammation, and compromised immune function. Transitioning to a natural diet, rich in diverse and abundant microbial composition, can promote better gut health and overall wellness.
Probiotics: The good guys! Probiotics can improve gut health, reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and aid in restoring balance between good and bad bacteria. They can help improve the gut lining, reduce diarrhea associated with antibiotic use and inflammatory bowel disease, enhance nutrient absorption, improve digestive function and bowel regularity, and even combat bad breath.
Prebiotics: Feed the good bacteria! Prebiotics are specific dietary fibers that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. They are fermented by beneficial organisms in the intestine, producing short-chain fatty acids that enhance gut and immune health.
Digestive enzymes: Help break down food better, reducing symptoms like gas and bloating. Digestive enzymes are crucial for ensuring dogs get the nutrients they need from their food. Processed dog foods often lack these enzymes due to heat treatment. Supplementing with digestive enzymes can improve food breakdown and digestion, reducing symptoms such as belching, reflux, bloating, and diarrhea.
Want but-boosting food for your epileptic dog?
Start building your personalised care plan below and save up to 30%!
Conclusion: How to Identify Gut Issues and Improve Them in Epileptic Dogs
A healthy gut means a happy dog! While digestive issues are common, especially in puppies, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog’s gut in tip-top shape. Ingredients like prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes, along with a raw food diet, can significantly improve your dog's digestive health. However, always consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog's wellbeing. Here’s to happy tummies and wagging tails!
Comments