September 21st has been named National Cat and Dog Gut Health Awareness Day to remind us that gut health plays a huge role in the well-being of your pet. With pets, just as with humans, the health of the digestive system affects their overall health. Below are details about how gut health affects overall health and ways to ensure that your pet's digestive system is working in top form.
Impacts of Gut Health:
- A healthy gut ensures effective nutrient absorption. This ensures that your cat or dog can fully "use" the food that they eat and properly absorb the vitamins and minerals that their body needs.
- Skin and coat health are impacted by gut health. If your pet's gut is not functioning properly, the first outward sign may be a dull coat, or skin issues.
- Digestive health impacts the weight of your pet and can contribute to obesity, weight loss, and/or malnutrition.
- Behavorial issues can also be linked to gut health. If your pet has poor gut health, they will not feel well. As a result they may become sluggish, anxious, or even aggressive.
- And finally, scientists are learning more and more about how gut health impacts immunity. It is now known that the majority of immune cells reside in a pet's gut. If there is a gut inbalance, their immunity can become compromised.
Now that you know the importance of gut health for your pet, it's important to know how to maintain a healthy digestive system.
Pet Gut Health Tips:
- Stick to a quality pet food and avoid table scraps. If you need guidance in this area, feel free to talk with our Doctors about selecting the best food specifically for your pet.
- Make sure you stick to the correct portion sizes for the breed and size of your pet. Overfeeding or giving too many treats can lead to temporary discomfort, long-term gut biome issues, and/or weight problems.
- Make sure your pet always has access to clean drinking water. Proper hydration contributes to gut health as well as overall health. Don't let your pet drink stale water from puddles, lakes, or ponds. These water sources may have dangerous chemicals or parasites that can wreak havoc on your pet's digestive system and overall health.
- Prevent pet stress. Excessive or long-term stress for your pet will cause them to release excess cortisol which can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Manage your pet's stress levels by providing them with a loving home and familiar routines. Also, guard against loud noises and provide a safe area where they can retreat to be alone when needed.
- Exercise your pet regularly. Exercise will help keep your pet happy and will also help keep their digestive system functioning properly to prevent constipation and other gut health issues.
- Maintain regular veterinary checkups. This will allow your veterinarian to spot any gut health issues and treat them early to maintain your pet's overall health.
If you have questions regarding gut health for your pet or feel that they are experiencing digestive inbalance, contact our office to schedule an appointment.
336-664-1522