Colitis
Colitis is essentially an inflammation of the large intestine, or colon. The term Colitis is used to cover several different conditions of the gastro-intestinal tract and can include:
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (a condition where the animal’s white blood cells invade the intestine and cause inflammation to occur). The result is that nutrient absorption is impaired and this causes weight loss and general GI disturbance
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which can be related to stress
Pancreatitis in which the pancreas becomes inflamed
Parasitic infections such as giardia, hookworms or whipworms
Bacterial infection such as Campylobacter or salmonella
Food allergies in which an animal is intolerant of certain ingredients.
The symptoms of colitis include diarrhea, which can sometimes alternate with constipation. Mucus or blood in the stool and excessive gassiness are also signs of Colitis. Stool volume may be reduced but there may be much straining and the frequency of defecation may increase.
A holistic approach to treatment
If a food intolerance is suspected as the cause of colitis, an elimination diet is a good starting point. This involves feeding a simple bland diet, like turkey and sweet potatoes, for a period of several weeks. Once digestive issues settle down, other food ingredients can be added back into the diet one by one, with a period of several days between each new addition, to monitor for any adverse reactions such as a recurrence of diarrhea, or vomiting.
A Grain-free diet is recommended by most holistic veterinarians for pets with colitis or a sensitive GI tract. Grain can cause many adverse reactions especially when there is an excessively high grain content in the diet, or those grains are highly processed such as corn gluten meal or wheat middlings. Genetically modified grains may be more likely to cause inflammatory reactions in the GI tract than conventional or organic grains. Whole grains are less problematic, too.
Digestive enzymes are helpful. A good quality probiotic such as lactobacillus and acidophilus helps to improve intestinal absorption of the nutrients in your pet’s food. Plain yogurt with a live-culture may also do the job.
Some studies have shown that supplementation with Omega 3 fatty acids is helpful, since these have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
Herbs that are helpful for colitis include Slippery Elm and Marshmallow, Calendula and Pumpkin Seed. Pumpkin seed contains Omega 3 EFA’s, which have anti-inflammatory properties and also helps to stimulate appetite and relieve constipation. Plantain is an anti-inflammatory and emollient which soothes and protects internal mucus membranes. Slippery elm soothes and protects the internal mucus membranes and is a natural emollient and anti-inflammatory. Calendula can be used as an infusion or tincture, to treat ulceration and inflammation of the intestinal tract.
Pectin, a soluble dietary fiber, is also recommended for various GI problems including Colitis; it helps to naturally regulate the digestive tract and combat diarrhea.
Antibiotics are not recommended except for specific types of colitis which are caused by a bacterial infection.
If you suspect your pet is suffering from Colitis, consider a veterinary consultation to determine the cause and come up with a treatment plan. The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association web site www.ahvma.org has a directory of excellent holistic vets, nationwide. Here at Woof & Whimsy we specialize in grain-free diets, herbal supplements, probiotics, Omega 3's and much more to help your furry friend feel better naturally.
Holistic Health & Wellness Tips
Natural Flea & Tick Remedies
The EPA is reporting on many over the counter Flea & Tick products that are using pyrethroids in their products and are having serious effects on animals with pro-longed used. The products we carry here at Woof & Whimsy don't contain these ingredients. Everyone out there using chemicals think about switching to our much safer products and keep your animal safe and healthy.
We carry products from Mad About Organics. The Flea & Tick Skin Treatment is a safe alternative to the chemical spot treatments. This is safe enough to use on animals as young as 4 weeks old! The Flea, Tick, Fly & Mosquito Relief Spray is safe, natural and effective. This spray is great for whenever your pets run & play outside.
Another all natural and safe alternative is garlic. Veterinarians versed in natural alternatives use garlic in their private practices throughout the world. While best known for its health protective properties, garlic has been used for centuries as an insect repellent. Bug Off Garlic's air-dried garlic takes that benefit to a new level and is far safer than many chemical products. You may use this product with total confidence. Year round, long-term use is absolutely safe and highly recommended!
