News You Can Use
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Gut Health for Dogs & Cats
by Cheyenne Pratt, Technician, Calico Creek Veterinary Clinic
September 21st is National Cat and Dog Gut Health Awareness Day. This was created as a reminder of how important it is to keep our pet’ s digestive system at its best. Just like in people, gut health for cats and dogs plays a large role in their overall well being. A healthy“ gut” or microbiome, has the proper balance of bacteria and microorganisms that help your pet properly absorb nutrients, maintain healthy skin and coat, boost the immune system and manage weight. There is also a connection between your pet’ s gut health and behavior. A healthy microbiome is able to regulate the stress hormone cortisol and it produces positive neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. An imbalanced microbiome can cause pain, anxiety, lethargy, and even aggression. Inflammation of the gut has been shown to have a negative effect on cognitive function. The most common signs of bad gut health are: * diarrhea * vomiting
* constipation * decreased appetite
* gas * abdominal pain / swelling
* lethargy * bloody stool
* fluctuating weight * skin issues
There are a few simple things you can do to keep your pet’ s digestive system healthy, starting with feeding a high quality food. Quality food is higher in essential fatty acids and other nutrients. Obesity can cause digestive issues so don’ t overfeed your pets. Do not feed your pets table scraps because they are not able to digest the same foods we can. Hydration is important for digestion, so make sure your pet always has access to clean, fresh water. Regular exercise is important to keep the digestive system moving. Manage your pet’ s stress. Just as an unhealthy gut can cause stress, stress can cause an unhealthy gut. If your pet frequently experiences any of the above symptoms, reach out to your veterinarian.
Pawsitively Pets-- September
Around The Hydrant:
News You Can Use
Recalls:
Blue Ridge Beef, Virginia: Recalling its Blue Ridge Puppy Mix 2 pound logs and Blue Ridge Beef Kitten Mix, due to contamination of Salmonella and Listeria. Info: 704-873-2072.( 4 / 1 // 25)
Supercan, Florida: Recalling one lot of its Bully Sticks Pig Ears Slivers – Thick Cut Piggy Ear Slices pet treats, due to Salmonella contamination. Info:( 689) 808-5419.( 4 / 1 / 25)
Petdine Blue Ridge Beef, Colorado: Recalling eight different Zesty Paws Soft Chews treats and supplement products, due to a potential contamination of Salmonella. Info: 833-273-8346.( 2 / 17 / 25)
Blue Ridge Beef, Virginia: Recalling its 2 pound log of Natural Mix for Dogs, due to potential Salmonella contamination. Lot number: N25 / 12 / 31 Info: blueridgebeefnc @ yahoo. com or call 704-873-2072.( 1 / 31 / 25)
Blue Ridge Beef, Virginia: Recalling its Puppy Mix after some of its products tested positive for Salmonella. Lot numbers 08 / 06 / N25 and 08 / 16 / N25. Info: 704-873-2072.( 12 / 2 / 24)
Carolina Prime Pet, Inc., North Carolina: Recalling 16-ounce bags of Hollywood Feed Carolina Made Chicken Chips treats for dogs- possible Salmonella contamination. Lot number 20051324L2. Info: 828- 394-6460.( 11 / 25 / 24)
Source: dogfoodadvisor. com, amva. org
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