What can dogs eat with gastritis? - briefly
Dogs with gastritis should be fed a bland, easily digestible diet to avoid irritating their stomach lining. Recommended foods include boiled chicken or fish, well-cooked rice, and pumpkin.
What can dogs eat with gastritis? - in detail
When it comes to managing your dog's diet during an episode of gastritis, it's crucial to understand that the goal is to reduce irritation and inflammation of the stomach lining while promoting healing. Gastritis in dogs can be acute or chronic, and it's often characterized by symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and lethargy. Here are some guidelines on what dogs with gastritis can eat to support their recovery:
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Bland Diet: A bland diet is typically recommended for dogs suffering from gastritis. This involves feeding your dog a simple, easily digestible meal that consists of a protein source and a carbohydrate. Common choices include boiled chicken (without skin or bones) and white rice. This combination provides necessary nutrients without aggravating the stomach lining.
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Gradual Reintroduction: After the initial phase of the bland diet, gradually reintroduce your dog's regular food over a period of 3-5 days. Mix increasing amounts of the regular food with decreasing amounts of the bland diet to allow your dog's stomach time to heal and adapt.
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Small, Frequent Meals: Feeding your dog smaller meals more frequently can help reduce the volume of food in the stomach at any given time, which may alleviate symptoms. Aim for 4-6 small meals a day instead of the usual 1-2 larger ones.
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Hydration: Ensuring your dog stays hydrated is vital during recovery from gastritis. Offer small amounts of water frequently throughout the day. If your dog refuses to drink, you may need to consult your veterinarian for alternative methods such as subcutaneous fluids or oral electrolyte solutions.
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Avoid Certain Foods: It's essential to avoid foods that can exacerbate gastritis symptoms. This includes:
- Fatty foods and oils, which can slow down digestion and increase the risk of pancreatitis.
- Dairy products, as many dogs are lactose intolerant, and consuming dairy can cause stomach upset.
- Spicy or acidic foods, which can irritate the stomach lining.
- Raw or undercooked meat, bones, and fish, as these can pose a choking hazard or contain bacteria that can worsen symptoms.
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Probiotics: Incorporating probiotics into your dog's diet can be beneficial, as they help restore the balance of gut microbes and support digestive health. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations on appropriate probiotic supplements or foods that contain live cultures.
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Prescription Diets: In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend a prescription diet specifically formulated for dogs with gastrointestinal issues. These diets are designed to minimize irritation and promote healing.
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Medication: In addition to dietary changes, your vet may prescribe medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors to help manage symptoms and reduce stomach acid production. Always follow your veterinarian's advice regarding medication administration.