Probiotics for Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment in Cats

Learn about an alternative irritable bowel syndrome treatment for cats. Probiotics offer outstanding relief to cats affected with IBS that are easily and safe for all ages. Stop diarrhea and intestinal issues by improving a cat's inner health with natural supplements.

Irritable bowel syndrome occurs when the lining of the intestines or stomach becomes inflamed. Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea. Often dietary changes are an important part of an irritable bowel syndrome treatment.

Common Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

While the cause of irritable bowel syndrome varies from cat to cat, most cases are related to poor diet, stress and age. Older cats are more likely to need an irritable bowel syndrome treatment than a young cat.

Many believe it is the poor quality foods available in grocery stores that lead to IBS. Foods high in corn, wheat, soy and by-products do not offer nutritional benefits. More often, these ingredients are harder to digest and are common food allergens. Any veterinarian with experience treating IBS will suggest a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet and supplementing with probiotics.

Understanding how Probiotics Work

Probiotics are found naturally in a cat's intestinal tract. The bacteria help break down foods and protect the body against disease and infection. When the quantity of bacteria decrease, infection and illness find it easier to attack the body. This is why the lining of the stomach and intestines become inflamed.

There are many reasons why bacteria die off within the intestines. They include:

  • Airborne pollutants and contaminated water sources

  • Effects of age on the body

  • Improper nutritional intake

  • Overuse of prescription medications

  • Pre-existing disease

  • Stress and anxiety

You help your cat overcome IBS by improving the ratio of bacteria in their body. Probiotic supplementation is a safe and effect irritable bowel syndrome treatment option.

Using Probiotics as an Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment

Probiotics come in capsule, liquid, paste, powder or tablet form. You'll probably find it easiest to give your cat a probiotic irritable bowel syndrome treatment by mixing some powder or liquid into some canned food. Most cats love canned food, especially seafood varieties, making it easy to mask the taste of the probiotics.

Before choosing a canned food, read the ingredients. Most inexpensive brands use low quality by-products. There are inexpensive brands that do stick to pure protein sources, but you must read the label carefully. Another option is to purchase low-sodium canned tuna. Many cats love the taste of tuna and it is strong enough to mask the taste of the probiotics.

Pastes and pills are effective, but can be harder to give to a cat. It's generally easiest to mix the probiotic into the animal's food. You should base your final decision on what you know your cat will readily take. If your cat is agreeable to having pills put in his mouth, go head and use the capsules or tablets.

Look for a probiotic supplement that contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, a probiotic that increases lactic acid in the stomach and intestines. Saccharomyces Boulardii, a form of yeast, is also important.

If your cat dislikes canned foods and seafood, try yogurt. Adding some probiotics to a tablespoon of yogurt easily masks the taste and ensures your cat takes the entire dosage.

 

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