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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a serious problem today for many pets. When suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, the bodies normal rhythmic contractions of the digestive tract become irregular and uncoordinated. This interferes with the normal movement of food and waste material, and leads to the accumulation of mucus and toxins in the intestine. This accumulated material sets up a partial obstruction of the digestive tract, trapping gas and stools, which in turn causes bloating, distention, and constipation. IBS may affect the entire gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth through the colon. IBS can be triggered by stress. However, many times it is seen as a behavior problem or emotional problem. Unfortunately, this is a disease triggered by many factors and can NOT be helped by behavioral methods. Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Constipation and/or diarrhea (often alternating) Abdominal pain Mucus in the stools Nausea Flatulence Bloating Anorexia Intolerances to certain foods Pain is often triggered by eating and may be relieved by a bowel movement. The products recommended below have been helpful for pets experiencing IBS. Products recommended for IBS are: Digest Zymez www.purelypets.com These capsulated enzymes can be fed orally or opened and mixed directly into the food. Digest Zymez reduces intestinal gas and cramping and is very helpful with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. This is one product I highly recommend and use on my own pet that suffers with IBS. Yucca Intensive www.purelypets.com Yucca contains steroid saponins which are nature's most powerful anti-inflammatory agents. It reduces pain as well as any gastric side effects. It is effective in treating bowel problems. Mega Pet Daily www.purelypets.com CERTIFIED INGREDIENTS: A high potency, quality, nutritional supplement of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in a base of Alfalfa, Watercress, Parsley, Rice and Lecithin. Other Recommendations: Feed a very simple diet. Diets that seem to be beneficial are ground chicken, brown rice and peas; ground chicken, white rice and peas; or in other cases a dry food containing beet pulp to harden the stool. It is simply finding what works and sticking with that. Every IBS case is different and not one diet works for every pet. Avoid animal fats (found in many pet foods), dairy products, junk treats, all processed foods, spicy foods, sugar, wheat bran and wheat products. These foods encourage the secretion of mucus by the membranes and prevents the uptake of nutrients. Use distilled water. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the author is prohibited. |
This page was last modified on 12/02/06