Inflammation is a normal protective response in the body. When an injury, infection or other irritant occurs, the immune system responds by sending blood and immune cells to the affected area.
This acute inflammatory response is an important part of the body's natural healing process. Problems can arise when inflammation persists or repeatedly occurs, resulting in ongoing, low-grade inflammation.
Chronic inflammation can affect different parts of the body and is associated with a wide range of health conditions.
What Is Inflammation?
Inflammation is part of the body's natural defence and repair system. It can occur in a specific area of the body or be more widespread.
Many conditions have names ending in “-itis”, indicating inflammation of a particular tissue or organ. Examples include:
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Arthritis
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Bronchitis
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Conjunctivitis
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Cystitis
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Dermatitis
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Gingivitis
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Otitis
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Pancreatitis
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Colitis
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Uveitis
The presence of inflammation is a sign that something is affecting the body, so it is worth looking beyond the symptom and considering what may be contributing to it.
What Can Contribute to Chronic Inflammation?
There can be many contributing factors, and these will vary between individual animals.
Possible factors include:
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Poor-quality or unbalanced diets
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Excess body weight
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Lack of regular movement
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Ongoing stress
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Environmental irritants
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Certain infections or underlying health conditions
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Individual genetic factors
While we cannot change our pet's genetics, we can often influence aspects such as diet, exercise, weight and the environment in which they live.
Taking a broader approach can therefore be useful when supporting a pet with ongoing health concerns.
Diet and Inflammation
Diet is an important part of overall health and is worth considering when inflammation is an ongoing concern.
A fresh, varied and appropriately balanced diet can provide a broad range of nutrients while avoiding excessive reliance on highly processed foods.
For dogs and cats eating a fresh-food diet, quality animal protein can be combined with suitable sources of healthy fats and plant foods where appropriate for the species and individual animal.
Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important nutrients to consider. They play a role in normal immune and inflammatory processes and can be obtained from appropriate foods or supplements.
Foods to Consider
A varied diet can provide a broad range of naturally occurring nutrients and antioxidants.
Depending on the individual animal and their diet, foods that may be considered include:
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Leafy green vegetables
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Broccoli and broccoli sprouts
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Blueberries and other antioxidant-rich foods
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Turmeric
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Appropriate sources of omega-3 fatty acids
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Colostrum
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Green-lipped mussel
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Prebiotic and probiotic foods or supplements
Not every food is suitable for every dog or cat, so ingredients should always be selected according to the individual animal and their overall diet.
Don't Forget the Gut
The digestive system and gut microbiome play an important role in overall health and immune function.
Providing a varied, appropriate diet and supporting healthy digestion can help maintain a diverse gut environment.
Prebiotics, probiotics and naturally fibre-rich foods can all be considered as part of a broader approach to digestive wellbeing.
Weight and Movement Matter
Maintaining a healthy body weight is another important part of supporting overall wellbeing.
Excess body fat can influence inflammatory processes, while regular, appropriate movement supports healthy metabolism, muscle tone and mobility.
The amount and type of exercise should always be appropriate for the animal's age, breed, fitness and individual needs.
Stress and the Environment
Ongoing stress can affect many aspects of an animal's wellbeing.
Consider your pet's environment, routine, exercise, social needs and exposure to potential environmental irritants.
Reducing unnecessary stress and providing a calm, stimulating environment can form an important part of a holistic approach to health.
What About Anti-Inflammatory Medications?
Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids can be prescribed to help manage inflammation and pain.
Like all medications, they can have potential side effects and need to be used appropriately. NSAIDs, for example, can affect the digestive system and, in some circumstances, the kidneys or liver. Corticosteroids can also have a range of effects, particularly with prolonged or higher-dose use.
This doesn't mean these medications are inappropriate. They can be valuable when needed, particularly when an animal is experiencing significant pain or inflammation.
The important thing is to consider the underlying cause as well as managing the symptoms.
Taking a Natural Approach
A holistic approach looks at the whole animal rather than focusing on one symptom in isolation.
Diet, digestive health, body weight, exercise, stress, environment and individual nutritional needs can all be considered when supporting overall wellbeing.
Rather than simply trying to manage inflammation, consider what may be contributing to it and whether there are practical changes that could support your pet's natural ability to maintain balance.
Feeding a Natural Diet
If you are considering a fresh, natural diet for your dog or cat, see our feeding guides:
For individual dietary guidance, contact Greenpet or complete our consultation questionnaire.