Long-term Constipation, Diarrhea, and Indigestion in Ca

Veterinarian Amy Dicke explains:

"The health of our pets' gastrointestinal tracts is crucial, as up to 60% to 80% of their immune system resides there. The functionality of the gastrointestinal system plays a pivotal role in supporting the immune system. A healthy gut is essential for fighting off diseases, and maintaining a balanced gut flora is vital for the overall wellbeing of our furry friends."

"The gut is not only the primary site for nutrient digestion and absorption in animals but also serves as a critical defense against harmful invaders such as pathogens and toxins in the intestinal lumen."

"In a nutshell, when the gut flora is imbalanced, pets may suffer from various gastrointestinal issues and become more susceptible to infections."

"But why does gut flora imbalance occur? It all starts with what our cats and dogs eat."

"The food we feed our pets has a significant impact on their gut flora. The three macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) and dietary fiber all play a role in shaping the gut flora of our pets."

"In the distant past, cats were strictly carnivorous, while dogs were primarily carnivorous but also omnivorous, with a preference for meat. They would forage for food in the wild, choosing what was most beneficial, such as cats eating mice to supplement their lysine intake—a survival instinct."

"Today, our pets primarily consume commercial dry food and occasional processed snacks or canned food, which is more regular than their ancestral diet. However, this can lead to dietary monotony or even nutritional imbalances, such as feeding them indigestible粗粮 or human food."

"However, we're not suggesting that you change your pet's diet. After all, stress, emotions, medication, and even the natural composition of their gut flora can all affect their gut health. Instead, we recommend that pets with imbalanced gut flora try incorporating probiotics into their daily routine."

"This is known as 'supplying what is lacking.'"

"What are probiotics, you ask?"

"According to the international nutrition community, probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can be consumed directly as food additives to maintain a balanced gut flora and promote health."

"Numerous studies have shown that probiotics can be highly effective in improving gastrointestinal issues in pets, such as Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus, and Lactic acid bacteria, which are all common and essential probiotic strains."

"In 2017, a study involving 249 dogs with gastrointestinal diseases, including viral diarrhea, bacterial diarrhea, parasitic diarrhea, chronic diarrhea, and constipation, was conducted. After treatment, the dogs were given probiotics to aid in their recovery. The results were impressive, with a significant improvement in their condition and a high recovery rate."

"However, this does not mean that simply consuming food containing these probiotic strains will guarantee your pet's health. Most of these bacteria are killed by the stomach's strong acid, and only a few acidresistant bacteria survive to reach the intestines and exert their benefits."

"Additionally, probiotics can easily lose their activity in high temperatures, which is why many socalled probioticrich foods have no effect. It's crucial to choose a probiotic that is both heatresistant and acidresistant to ensure its effectiveness. If not, the probiotics may die before they even reach the intestines!"