At Treatibles, we believe Hippocrates was correct when he stated: Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.
Like us, pets are what they eat.
For many cats and dogs on a kibble-based diet, constipation, impacted anal sacs, gas, vomiting, and furballs are quite common. That does not mean these issues are normal – they are not. Making the switch to a healthy bio-appropriate diet can often reduce or eliminate these issues.
That can mean a balanced homemade diet, commercial fresh food for pets, freeze-dried, or even raw foods. With more and more options on the market, it is both easier and less expensive than many believe.
Cost is a valid concern. One must factor in the potential savings in veterinary bills when providing a real food diet for cats and dogs. Even if the budget only allows for a few fresh food meals per week, pets can still experience many benefits.
There following are other simple ways to help promote digestive health:
Probiotics
Probiotics are living microorganisms that keep pathogenic bacteria – the bad kind – from creating an imbalance inside the digestive tract. The digestive tract is home to billions of bacteria. It is the proper ratio of good-to-bad bacteria that keep the immune system functioning well. When gut flora is balanced, the body is able to fight bacterial and viral infections from taking root. When bad bacteria are able to flourish, they can take over the digestive tract. This can contribute to many digestive diseases and disorders, overgrowth of yeast causing digestive and skin problems, and more. We recommend offering a probiotic made specifically for pets. Cats and dogs require strains that can survive the strong acids produced in their stomachs.
Pumpkin
An excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. This means that it not only helps bulks stool (helps to relieve diarrhea), but it also works to push waste through the colon (helping relieve constipation). Pumpkin is also rich in enzymes that can ease an upset stomach. Simply offer one teaspoon per every 10 pounds of your pet’s weight of freshly steamed, baked, or canned pureed pumpkin to your pet’s food once a day or more. Some cats and dogs will even lick it off the spoon! For those who aren’t pleased with the taste, feel free to mix it with some plain organic yogurt. That usually does the trick. Pumpkin can be used every day, even after symptoms disappear.
Chamomile
Known as a carminative herb, chamomile relaxes stomach muscles and is wonderful for relieving excess gas and nausea. Simply brew a bag of chamomile tea and let it cool. Pour over food, add to your pet’s water bowl, or serve as is. For cats and small dogs, less than 1/4 cup, one to three times per day; For medium-sized dogs, 1/4 – 1/2 cup, one to three times per day; For large dogs, 1/2 – 1 cup, one to three times per day.
Treatibles
All Treatibles products feature Organic Full Spectrum Hemp CBD Oil, which supports a healthy digestive tract and promotes the body’s normal inflammatory response. Our hard chews and soft chewables also contain many ingredients recognized for their digestive health benefits including turmeric, cinnamon, pumpkin and sweet potato.
If your pet’s digestive issues persist or are accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, fever, loss of fur, or anything else out of the ordinary, please contact your veterinarian immediately.