IBS in Pets
squat, strain, and try to poop, but only thing that came out was mucus. However, the next day she seemed to have diarrhea and gas. I figured she had probably eaten a lizard or something equally disgusting, but her symptoms persisted for several weeks. She lost weight and started to leave little presents around the house. After my husband stepped in a few of them, he gave me an ultimatum, “Either that shaggy-haired excuse for a toupeé goes, or I do.” I knew he was serious because he’d begun to call my baby “Tinker the Stinker”; then he threatened to install those black lights used on CSI (to search for body fluids) in all the lamps. It took a few days for me to decide between Tinker the Stinker and my husband. After all, I’d had Tinker longer and she loved me unconditionally—all the time. My husband, however, seemed to love me a lot more when he’d had a couple of beers on a full stomach. However, he worked and paid some of the bills . . . so, we finally compromised and decided to take Tink to my veterinarian—Dr. McKenna. I suspect that Mrs. McKenna probably had similar dilemmas based on what I’d seen of Dr. McKenna’s clothes after lunch. No one wore Grey Poupon like the Doc. Dr. McKenna weighed Tinker and then made some comment about Shih Tzus and defecation that I won’t bore you with. He examined her and suggested he take an x-ray to rule out any tumors or growths that might be causing the problem, and do a blood panel, urinalysis and test for worms for a nominal fee (which is why my husband’s steady employment is tied to my love for him and Tink). “All of the tests came back normal,” Dr. McKenna explained, while Tink sniffed his clothing; Her problem could be a case of IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. IBS is clinically described as chronic, but can come and go based on diet and the animal’s emotional environment. Some animals react to changes in their environment by getting upset and because of the link between our brain’s “fight or flight response” and our digestive tract, it can lead to abnormal intestinal movement. “There is no definitive IBS test, but changing food and keeping plenty of fresh water accessible is usually a good first step. Plenty of water-soluble fiber is also important. Try to reduce any stress or anxiety and if she doesn’t improve we might need to do an intestinal biopsy, it would rule in or out the more serious condition of Inflammatory Bowel Disease,” Dr. Mc Kenna said as Tink licked his lab coat. “There are some medications like anti-anxiety medications such as amitriptyline and anti-spasmodic/tranquilizer combinations that reduce abdominal bloating and pain. Some drugs can decrease gastrointestinal gas. Anti-diarrheal drugs like Loperamide and Diphenoxylate might help, but let’s go there only if we have to. Cats can have IBS also. Irritable Bowel Syndrome can cause them to have pain that even leads to marked changes in behavior causing them to bite or scratch.” “But Doc, what else is there? My husband is about to give poor Tink the boot.” I pleaded. “We’ll can start with some probiotics to get her intestinal tract back to a healthy balance. There is an amino acid called glutamine , which helps heal the intestines. First, withhold food for 12-24 hours—water only. Try then feeding a bland diet with a water-soluble fiber powder mixed in. My assistant will have some cans waiting in front. I also recommend a homeopathic product called DiarrHeel for the diarrhea. It is safe for any kind of diarrhea.” “How many kinds are there? No, don’t tell me. I don’t want to know, I said. “Thanks Doc. You may have saved my marriage. Can I give my husband Diarrheel? Sometimes he is full of it also.” “Only if he comes in and has a fecal exam.” “Thanks, Dr. McKenna. I knew I could count on you.”
Many pet owners are turning to natural remedies as an alternative to many of the harsh pharmaceutical drugs so often prescribed for our pets. There are a number of natural ingredients that can help soothe the pain and discomfort of IBS, without the risk of concerning side effects. One such natural ingredient is Licorice which has excellent anti-inflammatory properties and is an effective tonic for the entire digestive system. Marshmallow is another well known help that can be most effective in the treatment of IBS as it helps to soothe painful and inflamed mucous membranes of the digestive tract. Lastly, Slippery elm is an excellent overall digestive herb which has a long history of use in the treatment of digestive disorders, including IBS. Rich in trace minerals, manganese, iodine, protein and soothing mucilage, Slippery elm helps to reduce the symptoms of IBS, while soothing and strengthening all mucous membranes.
researcher, and all around pet lover Sheli Ellsworth Helpful Supplements for Pet IBS
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