Feline digestive enzymes are a supplement that is available to assist cats when their bodies are no longer producing sufficient enzymes to aid in digestion. This condition is more common with older cats that have experienced a slowing of production due to age, but can be helpful for any cat that has been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome, pancreas problems or chronic diarrhea.
Feline Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are normally present in raw food, but when cats eat food that is cooked or made from poor quality ingredients, the body is responsible for producing its own enzymes to help with digestion. This process may become slower as a cat ages, or it may be hindered completely by certain types of bacteria, disease or infection. Digestive enzymes are normally available in powder form, which can be sprinkled by dosage over a cat's food. This formula can be purchased online or at your local pet store without a prescription. It's made from all-natural ingredients and does not contain sugar, yeast, preservatives, or any artificial additives. Enzymes are derived from plant sources which tend to promote more beneficial activity than animal-based enzymes.
Benefits of Digestive Enzymes
Not only can digestive enzymes promote better digestive health, but they provide additional benefits as well. Since these are created from natural sources, they can be used in conjunction with many traditional medications or other treatments for added preventative or curative measures. Supplements can be used by healthy cats as well, but research carefully to make sure your cat is in need of additional enzyme supplements, as too much could cause problems as well. Digestive enzymes promote healthier skin and hair coat, increased immune system efficiency, more energy and easier maintenance of a healthy body weight. The powder is tasteless and odorless, which provides an advantage when attempting to feed to a finicky cat. Some supplements are coupled with other healthful properties which may prevent gingivitis and provide overall benefit to teeth and gums.
Side Effects of Digestive Enzymes
When digestive enzymes or other natural substances, such as herbal remedies or homeopathics, are introduced to the body, some side effects may occur. Especially if your cat's body has been exposed to poor eating habits or a long-term infection or disease, providing healthy digestive enzymes may prompt the body to return to a proper balance and cause temporary side effects along the way. These side effects may include constipation, loss of energy or loss of appetite. If symptoms persist or the cat's condition worsens after about three to four days, discontinue use of the enzymes. Likewise, it's recommended to carefully research any interaction with digestive enzymes that may occur with other drugs your cat may be taking. Though this is a natural product, it's designed to increase functionality of a particular area of the body. Synthetic drugs which are designed to alleviate symptoms in other areas may be adversely affected by an increase in enzymes.