Indigestion

For all animals – cats, dogs, humans – digestion of food and absorption of nutrients is a vital process that affects overall health and well-being. Indigestion is a term that refers to any condition that interferes with normal digestion or conditions in which gastrointestinal motility is impaired.

Digestive disorders are one of the most common reasons for visiting a veterinary clinic. The main symptoms to watch out for are vomiting and diarrhea. However, there are other, less noticeable signs, such as weight loss, changes in appetite, gas, stomach churning, or sudden lethargy.

If you notice any of these changes, you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. If a digestive disorder is diagnosed, your veterinarian will discuss the most likely causes with you. The most common causes of indigestion are:

• Inflammation and irritation of the stomach wall (gastritis)

• Development of an adverse reaction to food

• Inflammation of the wall of the small intestine or overgrowth of bacteria in its lumen (SIBO)

• Inflammation of the large intestine (colitis) leading to frequent diarrhea with blood or mucus

• Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) or decreased production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas and inefficient digestion of food

Based on the results of the examination, your veterinarian may recommend a change in diet or prescribe medications to help your dog return to normal faster. Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to fluid loss (dehydration) as well as loss of vitamins and minerals. In addition, when the intestinal wall is inflamed, the right nutrients are required to quickly restore it.

Ask your veterinarian about Hill’s™ Prescription Diet™ Canine i/d™, which is specifically formulated to promote healing and recovery in the gastrointestinal tract. You will notice the result in three days.*

Hill’s™ Prescription Diet™ i/d is recommended by veterinarians because:

• It tastes great and is extremely attractive to your dog.

• Has a soft texture, does not irritate the gastrointestinal tract and promotes its recovery

• Easily digestible, contains a moderate amount of fat, which aids in the absorption of vital nutrients

• Provides adequate amounts of essential minerals to compensate for deficiencies resulting from vomiting and diarrhea

• Contains clinically proven antioxidants to neutralize free radicals and support a healthy immune system

• Suitable for both quick recovery and long term feeding

• Ideal for both puppies and adult dogs

• Available as wet and dry food

Once the cause of the indigestion is determined, your veterinarian may advise switching your dog to other Hills diets. However, resist the temptation to make your own dog food at home or mix your veterinarian’s recommended diet with other brands – you can also consult your veterinarian about feeding your pet a few small meals a day. Remember that the dog should always have enough fresh water.

By following your veterinarian’s advice, you can help your dog bounce back quickly. However, if the symptoms of the disease do not disappear (or disappear, and then reappear), you need to contact a veterinary clinic.

* A Multi-centre Feeding Study of the Influence of Dietary Intervention in Dogs with Gastrointestinal Disorders. Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. Pet Nutrition Centre, 2003.