Colitis, pancreatitis, vomiting, constipation, excessive gas – if you thought that only humans suffer from digestive problems, think again. Stress, poor diet and inactivity are unfortunate by-products of modern, fast-paced lifestyles which exert their effects on humans and animals alike. So if you find digestive ails uncomfortable to live with, your pet is sure to feel the same way. Check out the following dietary supplements to help keep your pet’s innards functioning optimally.
Keeping your pet’s digestive system lubricated is a simple way to reduce the inflammation that often accompanies gastro- intestinal problems. Slippery elm is derived from the bark of elm trees and is used for its ability to form gel-like mucous that coats and buffers the digestive system. Since lots of cats suffer from colitis and love fish at the same time, try adding a daily dose of salmon oil to her food.
Another way to ease the load on your pet’s digestive system is to assist it in the breakdown of food. Your pet’s body produces its own digestive enzymes to break down the protein, carbohydrates and fats it consumes in food. But adding a digestive enzyme supplement can boost this operation and compensate for loss of enzymatic activity that may accompany aging and poor health.
It’s also important to ensure that the good bacteria in your pet’s digestive tract outnumber the bad. Supplementing with pro- and prebiotics can help to grow and maintain this healthy flora. Probiotics add millions of beneficial strains such as acidophilus and lactobacilli, while prebiotics provides food to feed the good bacteria.
With the right combination of diet, exercise and supplementation, you can help you pet to eat, live and thrive in comfort and good health.
Global Pet Foods in Keswick is your source for top quality foods, supplements and accessories to keep your pet healthy and happy. Call 905-476-0575 or visit www.globalpetfoods.ca.