Pet Digest

Understanding Dog Diarrhea: Nutritional Triggers and Gut Health Understanding Dog Diarrhea: Nutritional Triggers and Gut Health Diarrhea is a common digestive issue in dogs that can range from mild to serious. While many factors can cause diarrhea, diet and nutrition are often key contributors, as well as vital tools in treatment and prevention. Common Nutritional Causes of Diarrhea Sudden diet changes: Abrupt switching of foods can upset gut flora and digestion. Food intolerances or allergies: Proteins like beef, dairy, or grains may trigger reactions. High-fat or spicy foods: Can overwhelm the digestive system. Low fiber intake: Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and gut health (see Understanding Fiber ). Contaminated or spoiled food: Introduces pathogens causing gastrointestinal upset. Supporting Gut Health Through Nutrition Choose Easily Digestible Foods Foods with moderate protein, low fat, and gentle carbohydrates help soothe the gut and r...

Canine Pancreatitis: Dietary Causes and Nutritional Recovery Pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas that can cause severe pain and disrupt digestion in dogs. Nutrition plays a crucial role both in the onset and management of this serious illness. The pancreas: key to digestion and metabolism. What Is Pancreatitis? The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and insulin. In pancreatitis, these enzymes activate prematurely, damaging pancreatic tissue and causing inflammation. This can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Dietary Causes and Risk Factors High-fat meals: Sudden ingestion of fatty foods is the most common trigger. Obesity: Overweight dogs are at increased risk due to fat metabolism issues. Human food scraps: Rich, fatty foods often fed as treats can precipitate attacks. Underlying conditions: Diabetes, hypothyroidism, or previous episodes increase susceptibili...