1. Introduction
Digestive health is one of the fundamental pillars of life for dogs and cats. Good digestion not only ensures they can properly absorb nutrients from food, but also directly influences their energy, immune system, coat quality, and even their behavior.
Digestive problems in pets are more common than we think: vomiting, diarrhea, gas, constipation, loss of appetite, or even food allergies. Sometimes they are due to specific causes such as a sudden change in diet, eating something inappropriate, or an infection, but in many cases they are related to daily nutrition and lifestyle habits.
At Breedna, we believe that prevention is key . Through proper nutrition and small daily care measures, we can prevent our furry friends from suffering from digestive discomfort and improve their long-term well-being. In this article, we share 5 practical and effective tips to prevent digestive problems in dogs and cats.
Table of Contents
2. Offer them quality and adapted food
Binge eating or disordered eating is one of the main causes of digestive problems. Dogs and cats need stability for their digestive systems to function properly.
- Fixed schedules : Try to always feed your child at the same time. Their stomach will get used to it and work better.
- The right amount : Adjust portions based on your child's weight, age, and activity level. Too much food can cause vomiting, gas, and weight gain.
- Meal division : For medium and large dogs, it's recommended to divide the daily ration into two or three meals. For cats, since they are more consistent eaters, it's best to offer several small meals a day.
Also, remember that feed changes should be made gradually . Ideally, the transition should be made over 7-10 days, gradually mixing the new food with the old food to avoid diarrhea or vomiting.
3. Control treats and avoid giving human food scraps
We know it's hard to resist that tender look when they sit next to you at the table. However, our leftovers aren't suitable for them. Their digestive systems are different from ours, and some foods are harmless to us but can be toxic to them.
- Dangerous foods : Chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, cooked bones or very fatty foods.
- Treats in moderation : Too many snacks can unbalance your dog's diet and overload his stomach. Use them as a one-time reward, not as a central part of his diet.
- Consider their sensitivity : Some pets are more prone to intolerances. In these cases, treats should be hypoallergenic or avoided altogether.
Responsible use of treats doesn't mean giving up on them, but rather doing so in a healthy way.
4. Make sure they always have fresh water
Hydration is a key factor in digestion. In both dogs and cats, adequate water intake helps transport nutrients, facilitates intestinal transit, and prevents constipation.
- Clean and fresh water : Make sure the bowl is always clean and filled with fresh water.
- Cat Fountains : Many cats drink little because they prefer moving water. Automatic fountains can be a great solution.
- Greater needs in summer : In the heat, dehydration occurs more easily and can complicate digestion.
A simple detail like controlling your water intake can make a big difference in your digestive well-being.
5. Observe their behavior and act in time
The last piece of advice, and no less important, is to pay attention to the signals they give us . They don't speak, but their body is responsible for communicating to us when something isn't right.
- Warning signs : Frequent diarrhea, vomiting, excessive gas, lack of appetite, weight loss, or apathy.
- Differentiating between a one-time event and a problem : A single episode may not be serious, but if it recurs or lasts more than 24-48 hours, it is necessary to go to the veterinarian.
- Regular Checkups : Annual veterinary checkups (or more frequent checkups for senior pets) help detect any chronic digestive problems early.
Monitoring is key. Prevention isn't just about nutrition, but also about being proactive about your care.
5.1. Other common causes of digestive problems
Although diet is the most important factor, there are other causes that can lead to digestive problems in dogs and cats:
- Stress or changes in the environment : Moving, traveling, or introducing new animals into the home can upset your dog's digestive system.
- Intestinal parasites : Worms or protozoa affect the absorption of nutrients and cause frequent diarrhea.
- Bacterial or viral infections : Especially in puppies or stray cats.
- Ingestion of foreign bodies : Toys, bones or any object that can be accidentally swallowed.
Knowing these possible causes allows us to be more alert and prevent them.
