Leaky gut syndrome, also known as intestinal permeability, is a condition that affects both dogs and cats. It occurs when the lining of the gastrointestinal tract becomes damaged, allowing toxins, undigested food particles, and bacteria to leak into the bloodstream. This can trigger a cascade of health issues, ranging from digestive problems to immune system disorders and food sensitivities.
The most common causes of leaky gut in dogs & cats is chronic low-grade inflammation which may occur as a result of toxicity, poor diet, overuse of medications, bacterial imbalance (dysbiosis), parasites, food allergies & autoimmune diseases.
Diet and Nutrition
One of the fundamental aspects of naturopathic treatment for leaky gut in pets is dietary modification. A well-balanced, species-appropriate diet can significantly support gut health.
For dogs, a diet rich in high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and fibre is recommended. For cats, a diet that closely mimics their natural prey diet is essential. High-quality animal-based proteins and essential fatty acids are crucial for their digestive health.
Herbal Remedies
Several herbal remedies have been traditionally used in naturopathic medicine to support gut health in pets. Commonly recommended herbs used in our Herbal GUT tonic include:
- Slippery Elm: Known for its soothing properties, slippery elm can help reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and support the healing of damaged tissues
- Marshmallow Root: This herb is often used to alleviate irritation and inflammation in the digestive system, promoting a healthier gut lining.
- Licorice Root: This has anti-inflammatory effects and may help in reducing gut permeability, offering relief to pets with leaky gut.
- Chamomile: Chamomile is known for its calming properties and can help reduce stress-related digestive issues.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oils or certain plant sources like flaxseed & chia, can be beneficial in reducing inflammation and supporting gut health. These fatty acids have been shown to improve the integrity of the intestinal lining and may help alleviate some symptoms associated with leaky gut in pets.
Stress Reduction
Stress can exacerbate leaky gut in dogs and cats, just as it does in humans. Reducing stress is crucial in supporting overall gut health. Providing a comfortable and secure environment for your dog or cat, ensuring regular exercise and exposure to sunshine & fresh air, along with regular playtime is essential for keeping stress to a minimum. Using natural calming remedies can be beneficial for animals that are anxious along with training techniques may be required to help resolve stress long term.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering bones and connective tissues. It contains collagen, gelatine and amino acids that can help repair the damaged intestinal lining and support gut health. Adding bone broth to your dog or cat’s diet can provide numerous health benefits, especially for those with leaky gut.
Probiotics & Digestive Enzymes
Incorporating probiotics and prebiotics can help restore the balance of beneficial gut bacteria, enhancing the intestinal lining’s integrity. Fermented foods, such as sauerkraut (ensure it is onion free) & raw apple cider vinegar (with the mother) can be beneficial sources of natural probiotics. Consider supplementing their diet with digestive enzymes if they have been eating cooked or processed food to aid in proper nutrient absorption and reduce strain on the gastrointestinal tract.
Gut health support
Supplements can be highly beneficial in restoring gut health so in addition to ensuring you are feeding a 100% fresh food diet, add some of the below supplements to help support healing of the gut lining.
- Greenpet Herbal GUT tonic contains herbs to support healthy gut & digestive support.
- Greenpet Vitagest is a unique blend of ingredients to support gut health with colostrum, slippery elm bark, seaweed, marshmallow, chamomile, rosehip, L-glutamine and MSM.
- Natural Pet Supplements Gut Restore scientifically proven to aid in repairing the gut lining and contains a large amount of animal specific pre and probiotics to repopulate the microbiome.
- Petz Park Probiotic for Cats or Dogs is a supplement powder featuring a powerful blend of pre and probiotics to help promote a healthy gut.
- Mutt Lover Apple Cider Vinegar Gut Tonic for dogs contains raw fermented apple cider vinegar with mother, along with ginger, turmeric, chamomile, valerian, marshmallow root, rosehip, panax ginseng and organic raw bones (or without bones for vegan version).
- Nectar of the Dogs Gut-Brain + Digestion contains: Probiotics & postbiotics, fulvic acid, green banana fibre, wakame, marine minerals, flaxseed powder and manuka honey.
- PetArk Probiotics for dogs contains colostrum, probiotics, aloe vera, slippery elm bark, peppermint, saccharomyces, selenium and zinc.
- Synbiotic 180-S for dogs and cats contains 9 strains of probiotics, prebiotics (inulin) and digestive enzymes.
- Greenpet Bone Broth is an organic dehydrated bone broth available in beef, chicken or lamb.
Naturopathic treatment of leaky gut in dogs and cats offers a holistic approach to support gastrointestinal health and overall well-being. By focusing on dietary modifications, herbal remedies, omega-3 fatty acids, stress reduction, bone broth & other supplementation, you can help restore the integrity of their gut lining and promote better digestion and nutrient absorption.
Feel free to request an online consulation if you would like a specific treatment plan for your furry companion’s individual needs. For simple requests, complete our complimentary Ask our Naturopath questionnaire.
