How Pumpkin Helps Pet Digestive Problems
Diarrhea and constipation are two of the most common health problems for dogs and cats. While there are a variety of causes of these issues such as internal parasites, illness, blockages and more, most minor cases of diarrhea and constipation can be quickly cleared up at home. Adding fiber to the diet, through natural foods such as pumpkin, can help get your pet feeling better, and regulate their stools.
The Benefits of Pumpkin
Pumpkin contains some useful ingredients including lots of fiber, a low amount of fat, and vitamins and minerals such as A, C, iron, beta-carotene, potassium, zinc, and magnesium. These ingredients are beneficial for GI health, regular bowel movements, stool consistency, and overall physical health of your pets.
Vitamins A and Beta Carotene can help with skin and eye health, while C helps with immune function. Iron helps with healthy blood cell production, while potassium, zinc, and magnesium can help with healthy circulatory and muscle function.
When Does My Pet Need More Fiber?
Fiber is beneficial as it can help add some bulk to your pet's stools, by increasing the firmness, and by encouraging the stools to retain some water. For pets with watery stools, increased fiber can help "bulk" the stools by adding more indigestible content which passes through the body. For pets with hard or small stools, fiber helps it to retain some moisture, making it easier to pass without becoming dehydrated or hard.
The fiber in pumpkin can also help push food content through the body and may be useful in moving hair and other ingested items through the body more efficiently, preventing problems such as hairballs.
Pumpkin is an easy-to-digest way to add fiber safely to the body without harsh laxatives or supplements the animal may not be able to tolerate easily. Your pet will likely enjoy the taste when it is added to meals, and it is safe to use with most medications.
When to Call Your Vet
It is always best to call your vet or schedule a wellness check before starting any supplement to make sure there is not an illness or blockage causing your pet's diarrhea or constipation. They will usually take a stool sample to check for parasites or disease, as well as a history of your pet's diet and health. Your vet can let you know if it is safe to begin adding pumpkin to meals and if it will interact with any dietary needs or medications.
Don't let your furry friend stay miserable. Help them have healthier bowel movements without straining or pain with products like Nutri Nibbles Pumpkin Powder Food Topper.
Pumpkin is a very safe supplement to your pet's diet, and most feel great once they begin taking it!
