The link between diet and gastrointestinal disease has been well established in humans, but the connection is often underappreciated in dogs. Just as with people, what your dog eats can profoundly impact their gut health.
Several different gastrointestinal diseases can affect dogs, and each one has its own unique set of causes and symptoms. However, some common dietary factors can contribute to all types of gastrointestinal diseases.
What Is Gastrointestinal Disease?
Gastrointestinal (GI) disease is any condition that affects the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, and associated organs. Different types of gastrointestinal diseases can affect dogs, each with its own symptoms. In addition, some GI diseases may require you to bring them to a pet emergency clinic or hospital because they can be life-threatening.
The most common symptoms of gastrointestinal disease in dogs include:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Flatulence
While these different factors cause these symptoms, diet is often a major contributor to gastrointestinal disease in dogs.
Different Types of Gastrointestinal Disease
Some of the most common GI diseases that can affect dogs include:
- Gastritis
- Pancreatitis
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
- Hepatic disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Gastroenteritis
It’s important to bring your pet to your vet if you see them showing any of these signs. In addition to their physical exam, they may also require certain lab tests, including blood work and x-rays, to make a diagnosis. Click here to know more.
Treatment Options for GI Diseases
Treatment for gastrointestinal disease in dogs will vary depending on the underlying cause, including:
- Dietary changes
- Weight loss
- Surgery
- Medications
In some cases, GI disease can be managed with a change in diet. Your veterinarian may recommend a special diet appropriate for dogs with gastrointestinal problems. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
Like other vet surgeries, such as soft tissue surgical procedures, dogs have certain risks associated with gastrointestinal surgery. These include anesthesia complications, infection, and bleeding.
Your vet will talk about the risks and benefits of surgery so you can decide what’s right for your pet.
How Your Dog’s Diet Affects GI Diseases
There are different ways diet can contribute to gastrointestinal disease in dogs, such as:
1. Certain Ingredients
Some ingredients, such as fillers, by-products, and preservatives, can be hard for your dog to digest and may irritate their digestive system.
2. Food Allergies
Your pet can also be allergic to certain foods, just like you. Common food allergies in dogs include wheat, corn, soy, and chicken.
3. Improper Nutrition
Dogs not properly nourished are more likely to develop gastrointestinal diseases. This is why feeding your pet a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs is so important.
For example, puppies need a diet higher in calories and protein than an adult dog. On the other hand, senior dogs may require a lower-calorie diet to help them maintain a healthy weight.
4. Incorrect Feeding Schedule
In some cases, dogs fed only once or twice a day are more likely to develop gastrointestinal problems, such as bloat. Some dogs may need to be provided with small meals throughout the day to help prevent these issues.
5. Amount of food
Overeating at one time can contribute to gastrointestinal disease in dogs. This is why it’s essential to feed your pet the correct amount of food based on their weight and activity level.
Feeding your dog the wrong food or too much bad food can lead to several gastrointestinal problems.
Final Thoughts
In addition to these dietary factors, a number of other things can contribute to gastrointestinal disease in dogs, including stress, parasites, and certain medications. Speak with your vet if you believe your pet suffers from gastrointestinal disease.
