In part two of our focus on the diet of a senior dog, we will look further into some specific nutritional categories bringing fantastic health benefits to your senior dog. We will also go through our recommendations on what to feed your senior pet, including specific nutrients and supplements you may wish to consider! Read Part 1 here! Specific Beneficial Nutrients There are a number of macro- and micronutrient categories senior dogs would benefit greatly from to slow the ageing process down, and reduce age-related inflammation. The two main categories to analyse here are Antioxidants, and Omega Fatty Acids. Antioxidants: these are one of the most important categories of nutrients to feed your senior dog (and are highly beneficial at any age!) due to their action against oxidative stress. As dogs age, oxidative stress becomes more proliferative; it’s a natural part of ageing! Oxidative stress is caused by ‘free radicals’ – unstable oxygen molecules missing an electron. Free radicals damage all parts of the body from organs to joints, causing joint degeneration, cancer, altering DNA, neurodegenerative diseases, adverse alteration of fats and proteins, and other diseases like diabetes, so it is incredibly important to combat these cells as best you can. Antioxidants tackle and remove free radicals from the body, leading to less oxidative stress, and therefore slower ageing. Some excellent sources to think about including in your senior dog’s diet include blueberries, strawberries, artichoke, goji berries, red cabbage, kale, ginger, spinach, parsley, pecans (in small amounts due to fat content), fresh garlic (avoid in Japanese breeds) and rosemary (avoid in epileptic dogs). Omegas Fatty Acids: this group of fats are another incredibly important category of nutrients to include in your senior dog’s diet, specifically Omega 3. The two ‘main’ omega fatty acids are Omega 3 and 6 – both are essential. Omega 9 is present in the diet too, but doesn’t add as many benefits to the dog’s health as Omegas 3 and 6. Omega 6 fatty acids called Linolenic Acid (LA) and Arachidonic Acid (ARA) are inherently inflammatory. The only non-inflammatory Omega 6 is Gamma-linolenic Acid (GLA). Omega 6 brings many benefits to the health of the dog despite it’s inflammatory properties, including control of hormones, however as it is naturally in abundance in our carnivorous pets’ meat based diet, we need to balance the inflammation out! This is where Omega 3 comes in! Omega 3 includes Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), Alpha-linolenic Acid (ALA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), and is inherently anti-inflammatory. The anti-inflammatory properties of Omega 3 Fatty Acids balance out the inflammation caused by Omega 6 Fatty Acids. EPA is the main inflammation reducer, while ALA aids immune and heart health, and DHA aids cognitive health and development. Some excellent sources of Omega 3 to include in your dog’s diet include fatty fish and fish oils, algal oil, flax and chia seed, oysters and eggs. You can read more about choosing an omega supplement for your pet here! Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here What Type of Food Should I Feed? The dog food market really is a minefield! There are many options of different food types, each claiming to be the best! Our ethos here at My Pet Nutritionist is to feed as fresh food as possible! Minimal processing is a major factor in healthy ageing and longevity. In this article, we are going to take a closer look at dry food, fresh cooked food, and raw food. Dry food is not a diet we would generally recommend, especially not for a senior dog! But why? High carb: carbohydrates can have an inflammatory effect on our pets. Dry foods are typically between 30 and 60% carbohydrate – sometimes even higher! Manufacturing process: these foods undergo a huge amount of processing. During the cycle of production from raw ingredient to bag, these foods are subject to up to 4 separate high-heat processes, each time reducing nutritional quality. Synthetic vitamins and minerals: our senior dogs may not be able to utilise the synthetic vitamins and minerals often sprayed onto the dry food at the end of the manufacturing process, deeming them useless. Glyphosate: due to the extreme manufacturing process, glyphosate production occurs. This is the main ingredient effective against killing weeds, but it is linked with cancer and damage of the gut microbiome. Mycotoxins and Aflatoxins: mycotoxins are chemical compounds caused by mould and can lead to vomiting and seizures. Aflatoxins are also caused by mould in food and can lead to cancer and liver damage. Storage mites: before bagging, dry foods are often stored in large hoppers – and even after bagging, the shelf life is very long, encouraging storage mites which can trigger allergies. Advanced Glycation End Products: shortened to AGEs, these harmful chemical compounds are produced during manufacturing, and a linked to cancers, inflammation, oxidative stress and premature ageing. Why do we advocate for a fresh cooked, or raw diet? Which is best for senior dogs? Fresh food is minimally processed, meaning the harmful compounds listed above do not form, reducing the risk of inflammation, oxidative stress and other disease in the body. As the ingredients are still in their whole, natural form they are nutrient dense, and provide the body with excellent nutrition! Another major benefit to fresh food, is that it is high in moisture – moisture in the diet is essential for kidney and gut health, both of which are known to worsen during the ageing process! As the gut motility of senior dogs can reduce, and other changes in the gut naturally occur, many seniors cope best with fresh cooked food as opposed to raw food – though some do still tolerate raw food! We have an extensive array of well formulated and balanced meal recipes for dogs on our website! Our Recommendations There are various aspects of diet we actively encourage owners of senior dogs to include in their dog’s feeding regime. Some may benefit from a more tailored 1-2-1 approach with one of our consultants, however our general
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we help pet owners help their beloved dogs and cats with all aspects of health and nutrition. Those we consult for include all ages, from puppyhood right through to old age. Our golden oldies deserve just as much love and care as their younger counterparts! As a dog ages, their dietary needs may change – but how? In this bumper 2-part blog, we take a look at the dietary changes your senior dog may need to stay happy, healthy and pain free! Is My Dog a Senior? This is a question we here ever so frequently! Is your dog a senior? Is there a specific age your dog becomes a ‘senior’? what are the signs your dog is becoming a senior? Many processed dog food manufacturers will class a senior dog as ‘7 years plus’ – however we know there are so many contributing factors to a dog becoming a ‘senior’, and this isn’t always at 7 years of age! Factors affecting a dog’s ageing include: Breed: generally speaking, larger breeds will hit their senior years far earlier than smaller breeds. Breeds with predispositions to health conditions may also reach senior years earlier than those without. Genetics: a dog’s family genetics/history can affect the age they reach senior years. Medical history: if your pet has had any health complications growing up, any medical reactions, infections etc, these may cause senior years to come sooner. A dog’s neutering status, or the time they were neutered may also contribute to ageing. Dietary History: a dog fed a gut-friendly diet, full of natural nutrients, with minimal processing for life is more likely to reach senior years later than those fed an ultra-processed diet full of synthetic micronutrients. Ultra-processed dry foods also tend to have a high content of pro-ageing substances called Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs) which cause faster ageing. Exposure to toxins: toxin exposure can cause disruption in the endocrine (hormone) system, and cause gut stress which usually comes hand in hand with life shortening conditions, causing senior years to approach quickly. These toxins can be anything from flea and worm medications to environmental toxins both in the home and out and about. Behavioural History: even your dog’s behaviour can have an effect on longevity! This may seem like an odd link, but behavioural stress can have an effect on physical stress, and vice versa. The pathway between the brain and gut, known as the gut-brain axis is at play here! Physical stress on the body, caused by behavioural stress, will speed up the process of ageing. Signs that your dog is entering their senior years include: Weight loss Reduced hearing Reduce eyesight Increased fatigue Less willingness to exercise Reduced cognitive ability Stiffness Reduced appetite Increased water consumption Development of lumps and bumps Lack of balance and stability. Of course, as your dog enters the early staged of senior-hood, these symptoms may be mild, and your dog may only display a few. As your dog progresses through their senior years, more symptoms may appear, or existing symptoms may worsen. Nutritional Needs of a Senior Dog As your dog ages, various changes occur throughout their body which require some nutritional tweaks to ensure optimum health continues. These changes include various internal systems in the body such as: Gut health: the gut of an ageing dog can be subject to various changes affecting gut motility, nutrient absorption and processing. Digestive capabilities often occur due to gut degeneration. Brain health: ageing canines are often subject to cognitive decline. Joint health: one of the major pathways from the gut is the gut-joint axis. When the senior dog’s gut is compromised, joint conditions can become more prominent. Senior dogs generally require more joint support than younger dogs. Dental Health: dental conditions like gingivitis, tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fractures and tooth resorption are often seen in older dogs. Kidney Health: kidney disease is one of the more common age-related diseases we often hear about here at My Pet Nutritionist, as older dogs are more susceptible to Chronic Kidney Disease; a progressive disease. Heart Health: as the heart is a muscle, over time it can begin to fatigue. Statistically, around 75% of senior dogs suffer some sort of heart disease! Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here When it comes to nutritional composition, we need to look closely at the macronutrients and micronutrients in your dog’s diet; both quantities of, and types/sources of. Macronutrients are the main nutrients our bodies require in larger amounts; let’s take a look these requirements for a senior dog: Protein: The building blocks of protein are called Amino Acids. Amino Acids are essential for pretty much everything in the body to form and function normally, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, hair, nails and skin. Protein is also used in the endocrine system, to enable the healthy production of hormones throughout the body. As the dog ages, protein deficiencies become more common, which can lead to absorption issues and muscle degradation which ultimately affects mobility. A meat based, moderate-high protein diet is advisable for senior dogs. Fat: as dogs become less active due to the natural ageing process, a low fat diet may be advisable. Feeding a high fat diet when activity levels are waning may cause weight gain which puts pressure on joints and other parts of the body. The type of fat included in the diet also makes a difference! Saturated fats are the type we ideally do not want much of, however Omega 3 Fatty Acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, and are an important part of s senior dog’s diet! More on this later. Carbohydrate: ‘complex’ carbs which are high in fibre may be a great addition to your pet’s diet, to improve digestion, regulate metabolism and help maintain the immune and nervous systems. Higher fibre carbohydrate options include kale, broccoli and leafy green vegetables. Other ‘complex’ carbs that are ok to be fed in small amounts include sweet potato, pumpkin, banana, berries
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we consult for a huge number of families with an enormous variety of health concerns in their pets. Once diagnosed by a veterinarian, our packages aim to support your pet with a more natural view. One of the conditions we are asked about a lot, is Hypophosphatemia. This is a condition that occurs in both dogs and cats, so this blog may be a handy read for both owners of cats and dogs. Hypophosphatemia is the clinical term for low phosphorous levels being present in the blood. This condition is far more common in dogs than it is in cats. Hypophosphatemia is associated with a host of other health conditions, and can cause a variety of health conditions in itself. Some of the conditions commonly caused by Hypophosphatemia include: Bone Diseases: Rickets is a bone disease often caused by low phosphorous levels, and is specifically a bone growth disease – it ultimately causes bone softening to occur, as well as deformities, especially in puppies and kittens! Another common bone disease caused by Hypophosphatemia is Osteomalacia which is a very similar bone softening disease, but found more commonly in adults. Muscle Weakness: muscles may become weaker, and the pet may become more physically unstable, and may appear slimmer with little muscle tone. Respiratory problems: in rare, severe cases, respiratory issues can occur as a result of low blood phosphorous. Heart Failure: another rare condition to come of low phosphorous levels, in the more severe cases. Seizures: again, while rare, seizures can occur as a direct result of severe Hypophosphatemia. Findings Here Findings Here Symptoms and Causes The clinical presentation of Hypophosphatemia changes depending on the severity of the deficiency in your pet. The trickier side of these symptoms, is that they are common in a variety of health issues, not just Hypophosphatemia! This can make diagnosis more difficult. If your pet has mild Hypophosphatemia, you can expect to see some of, or all of the following symptoms: Muscle weakness: a change in gait, difficulty climbing stairs, weakness when getting up from a bed or laying position, or difficulty standing for long periods. Reduced, or total loss of appetite: pets may have a reduced appetite, or stop eating all together. Lethargy: unwillingness to be active for usual periods of time. Pets may be less alert. Disorientation: leaning or wobbling when standing may occur Findings Here If your pet has severe Hypophosphatemia, you may see the above symptoms, as well as some of the following: Seizures: neurological activity can occur due to the lack of phosphorous in the blood. Ataxia: loss of coordination is another possible neurological symptom often seen in those with a severe deficiency of phosphorous in the blood. Constipation: this can occur due to paralysis of the intestines, meaning faecal matter cannot be pushed through the digestive system in order to be expelled. This condition is called Ileus. Irregular Heartbeat: arrythmias can be detected by your vet using a stethoscope. This is a symptom of severe blood phosphorous deficiency. Haemolytic anaemia and Haemolysis: abnormalities in red blood cell counts during bloodwork may show red blood cell destruction. These conditions are a symptom of severe Hypophosphatemia. Breathing difficulties: these often come hand in hand with heart conditions, and are a symptom of Hypophosphatemia. Findings Here When we look into the possible causes of Hypophosphatemia, there are a number of possible reasons for it’s onset. Let’s take a look at them: Dietary Deficiencies: if the pet’s diet is lacking in phosphorous, hypophosphatemia is a risk. This may be found in those fed a poor quality diet. Renal Disease: disease in the kidneys can cause hypophosphatemia through two pathways – increased excretion of phosphorous in urine, and reduced ability to reabsorb phosphorous in the kidneys. Hyperparathyroidism: when the parathyroid gland (which is involved in the calcium:phosphorous ratio) is overactive, phosphorous loss is increased. Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism): phosphorous imbalances are common in those with Cushing’s Disease. Fatty Liver Disease (Hepatic Lipidosis): this disease in cats is a contributor to phosphorous loss. Diabetic Ketoacidosis: severe phosphorous loss can be caused by this condition which occurs as a result of complications in diabetic animals. Poor Intestinal Absorption: in those with poor gut health, absorption of phosphorous in the gut can cause deficiencies. Phosphorous Redistribution: deficiencies in phosphorous occur when there is a shift from extracellular fluid (the blood) to intracellular fluid (the cells in the body) Specific Intravenous Therapies: some IV fluids can cause a reduction in phosphorous in the blood. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Diagnosis Diagnosis of Hypophosphatemia is a simple process. Your veterinarian will take a blood sample, and analyse it. The test is called a ‘Serum Phosphate Test’. Once this analysis is complete, your vet will inform you as to whether your pet’s phosphorous levels are within the ‘normal’ range of results. Findings Here Conventional Treatment When it comes to treatment your vet may offer, they will first and foremost look at underlying causes. Each individual cause will have a different treatment plan, so it is important to work with your vet on these. Depending on the severity of your pet’s Hypophosphatemia, phosphorous supplementation will be advised. More severe cases may have phosphorous supplementation intravenously, but most cases will be advised to give oral supplements. Some veterinarians will also advise on changing your pet’s diet to one with extra phosphorous. Frequent check ups will be carried out by your veterinary team to keep an eye on your pet’s blood phosphorous levels. Findings Here Findings Here A Natural Approach to Hypophosphatemia As always, our approach is often supported by veterinary care, so we tend to look at this as a complementary approach as opposed to alternative. Here are some of our considerations: Feed fresh: Poor dry food will most likely be lacking in various micronutrients despite its ‘complete and balanced’ label. Nutrient levels may be affected due to the numerous periods of exposure to high heat and the subsequent nutrient loss. Synthetic nutrients are often sprayed
Kidney disease is a common issue we see here at My Pet Nutritionist. In the dog world, there is a lot of confusion over what the diet of a dog with kidney disease should consist of, and if it should be low in phosphorous, or low in protein. We are here to help clear up the confusion! A Bit About Kidney Disease… Chronic Kidney Disease, abbreviated to CKD, happens in 4 stages. In order to understand the need for lower phosphorous and protein, we need to take a little look into the four stages. Stage 1 At this stage, there is no build up of toxins in the bloodstream, unlike in later stages. With often normal blood and urinalysis results, dogs with stage 1 kidney disease often have no clinical symptoms. This makes it very difficult to diagnose early on. Stage 2 During stage 2, toxins begin to build in the blood, and the kidneys begin to lose their function. When the kidneys begin to decline, they often begin to leak protein into the urine, which would give a higher protein reading in a urinalysis than is expected of a healthy individual. Blood pressure in these individuals may rise, but otherwise, clinical symptoms are rare at this stage. Stage 3 Once the diseased has progressed to stage 3, clinical symptoms are common, and include excessive drinking and urination. Following urinalysis, protein levels will be much higher, and blood pressure will further increase. Stage 4 Due to the degradation of the kidneys at stage 4, both protein and creatinine levels are high. Protein levels in the urine become incredibly high, and the blood pressure would be very high. Conventional treatments Upon diagnosis of CKD, your veterinarian may wish to flush the kidneys – this aims to remove toxins. This can help resume normal kidney function, but may not work for all dogs. A lower protein and phosphorous diet will likely be recommended. This diet should not be acidic either! We don’t want phosphorous to flood the bloodstream , so many vets with recommend a phosphorous binder, which is a drug designed to stop phosphorous from entering the bloodstream. Due to raised blood pressure in those with CKD, blood pressure medication may be prescribed. As a last resort, once all other medical avenues have been explored the vet may decide to perform kidney dialysis. What Type of Food Should We Feed Your vet will likely recommend a ‘prescription’ renal diet. These come in both wet and dry variations. Wet or fresh food contains 65-75% moisture, and dry food only contains 8-10% moisture. With the level of dehydration when feeding dry food, it can impact the kidneys further, and is not something we recommend. If using a veterinary diet, it may be a better option to go for the wet version. With this in mind, a fresh diet, tailored to suit a dog with kidney disease, would be the absolute best option. A balanced recipe, with low phosphorous and low-medium protein, would be ideal. We have two fantastic balanced recipes, ideal for those suffering with kidney disease in stages 1 and 2; one tripe based, and one beef based. For those with later stage kidney disease, a consultation is necessary. Where raw is a fantastic diet in general, we would recommend feeding a cooked diet in the event your dog is diagnosed with kidney disease, as cooking further reduces phosphorous. To learn more about kidney disease, and how other lifestyle changes can help those with CKD, please read our blog here! Why Should We Feed a Low Phosphorous Diet? People often wonder what the link is between phosphorous and the kidneys, and therefore why it should be fed in very low quantities to dogs who have kidney disease. When the kidneys are damaged, they struggle to remove phosphorous from the blood. While phosphorous is an important nutrient for strong bones and teeth, as well as muscular recovery, in excessive amounts, it can affect bone health, and cardiovascular health. Studies show that greater excretion of phosphorous in the urine reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. When the kidneys are functioning as normal, excretion of phosphorous is very normal; but when the kidneys are not able to function as normal, urinary excretion of phosphorous reduces due to their inability to remove it from the bloodstream, which leads to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease. Findings Here When looking at bone and tooth health, we need to consider the calcium-phosphorous ratio. When these are balanced properly, they work together to form strong bones and teeth, and help keep them in tip-top condition. Unfortunately, when there is an imbalance, and there is too much phosphorous in the body, calcium is pulled from the boned and teeth. Removing calcium from the bones and teeth causes them to become softer and weak. Findings Here Findings Here Why Should We Feed a Low Protein Diet? As previously mentioned, one of the main symptoms of kidney disease, is having high protein levels in urine. Studies show that high protein intake can be linked to proteinuria; protein in the urine. When a dog has low functioning kidneys, consumption of protein in ‘normal’ amounts causes immense stress and pressure on the kidneys, which then adds to the build-up of toxins in the blood. Not only does the amount of protein consumed affect the kidneys, but also the type, and quality of protein. Some of the best options for a protein for those suffering from kidney disease include beef, tripe, chicken, eggs, and fish. It’s very important to feed a diet still containing protein, however. Feeding too little can cause muscle wastage, slower healing from injury, cognitive inabilities, and slower metabolism. Aim to feed a low-moderate amount of protein, as part of a balanced recipe for kidney disease patients. Findings Here Findings Here If your dog has kidney disease, especially in the later stages, we would highly recommend booking in with one of our team for a consultation to help keep your dog
At My Pet Nutritionist, Cushing’s Disease is a big topic. We help a lot of dogs with Cushing’s Disease, and so we have created this essential guide to supporting the body with Cushing’s Disease. What is Cushing’s Disease? Cushing’s Disease, formally known as hyperadrenocorticism, was first diagnosed in 1912, by an American neurosurgeon named Harvey Cushing; hence it was informally named Cushing’s Disease. Cushing’s Disease is caused by too much of the hormone, cortisol being produced by the adrenal glands in the kidneys. Cortisol is a steroid hormone, and is responsible for regulation of various important bodily functions, such as immune response, and metabolism, as well as stress responses. Cortisol floods the body during stressful situations, in response to the stressor, which reduces risk of negative impacts during a flight or flight situation. Findings Here How Does Cushing’s Disease Happen? It is thought that predisposition for Cushing’s could be inherited genetically, and there are various breeds that are predisposed to Cushing’s, including: Poodles (and crosses) Yorkshire Terriers German Shepherds Boxers Maltese Labradors Cocker Spaniels Dachshunds Boston Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier There are three different medically underlying causes for Cushing’s Disease. Let’s take a look at these! Prolonged Use of Steroids Both topical and oral steroids used excessively, can lead to Cushing’s Disease. This type of Cushing’s is called Iatrogenic Cushing’s. Steroids contain a synthetic variation of cortisol, which on top of the body’s natural production of cortisol, leads to an overwhelming amount of cortisol, causing Cushing’s. Findings Here Findings Here Adrenal Gland Tumour There are two types of tumour which could form on the adrenal gland, causing excessive cortisol production. Adenomas are benign tumours, which could be surgically removed, are the better of the prognoses; removal is usually successful. Carcinomas are malignant tumours, which can have surgical interventions, but the prognosis is much more negative, and aggressive treatment may be required. Findings Here Findings Here Pituitary Gland Tumour A huge proportion of Cushing’s cases are caused by tumours on the Pituitary Gland. The Pituitary Gland is located at the base of the brain, and secretes a hormone called ACTH, which stimulated the adrenal glands to produce Cortisol. When there is a tumour present on the Pituitary, more ACTH is secreted, which results in overproduction of Cortisol. These tumours may be benign or malignant, and may be microscopic, or large. The larger the tumour, the more neurological signs there will be. Findings Here Findings Here Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease There are a variety of symptoms of Cushing’s Disease, which include: Lethargy Increased appetite Weight gain Excessive thirst Excessive urination Poor skin/baldness Bloated appearance Calcinosis Cutis Difficulty healing from minor wounds Hyperpigmentation (dark spots) Recurring bladder infections How is Cushing’s Disease Diagnosed? There are a number of tests used when veterinarians test for Cushing’s Disease. The most common test is the ACTH Stimulation Test, during which a blood draw is taken from the dog, before ACTH is injected into the dog, and a second blood draw is taken some hours later. The two blood samples are compared for levels of cortisol. This is a very effective method, and cost effective. A Low Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test can pinpoint exactly what is causing the Cushing’s Disease, if Cushing’s is present. In this test, a small amount of Dexamethasone (synthetic cortisol) is injected into the dog. In a healthy dog, ACTH production slows down to regulate the amount of cortisol produced by the adrenal gland; in a dog with Cushing’s, ACTH production would continue, causing raised levels of cortisol in a follow-up blood sample. To check the adrenal gland for swelling or visible tumours, your veterinarian may also run an ultrasound as the adrenal gland will be visible on this. Supporting the Body Diet Feeding a fresh food diet is very important, as with any condition! That could be raw, or cooked, balanced to one of our recipes. A low fat diet may be beneficial because fat and cholesterol levels in the body are increased when in the presence of excessive cortisol. When raw feeding, the organ being fed as part of your 10% offal, contributes to the support of that organ in the body; so feeding kidney may help support the dog’s kidneys. Supplements Omega 3 Omega 3 has an anti-inflammatory effect throughout the body, so is a very important addition to any dog’s diet, especially one suffering from disease, which could be worsened through inflammation. Not only are they anti-inflammatory, but Omega 3 also play a role in the brain’s production of neurotransmitters, which may be beneficial for Cushing’s sufferers. The effect omega 3 has on the brain is also shown to aid the reduction of mental stress. Findings Here Probiotics Cushing’s sufferers can suffer from poor gut health. Gut Dysbiosis is a concern among those diagnosed with Cushing’s, so giving probiotics is a great idea. These may ne teamed up with a mucilage herb such as slippery elm, or marshmallow root. our supplement below. Gut Guardian Findings Here Milk Thistle Particularly useful for patients with Cushing’s caused by a tumour, the active ingredient in Milk Thistle, Silibinin, has been proven to decrease tumour growth, and lower levels of cortisol. This supplement is also great for detoxing the liver; though that’s a topic for another day! You can read more on the liver here! Findings Here Liver Guard Melatonin and Lignans Melatonin and lignans are often used in combination with one another to help Cushing’s Disease patients. Melatonin is great for regulation of hormones. Regulation of cortisol is incredibly important in this situation, so melatonin may be a great option. Circadian rhythms are also maintained by melatonin. Lignans can be found in flax seed hulls, and mimic phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogen plays a large role in reduction of hormone-dependent tumours, as well as managing skin health. Adding lignans into the diet may aid Cushing’s sufferers, especially those suffering from a pituitary or adrenal tumour. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Complementary Therapies Acupuncture Acupuncture is great to reduce inflammation in the body, and
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we see quite a few clients with differing bladder stones, often accompanied by other disease. Let’s delve into the different stones and the types of diets we may want to feed. What are Urinary Stones? There are several types of stones that form within the urinary system, each needing a different environment and mineral composition to be able to form. 95% of stones occur within the bladder and only 5% within the kidney, for both cats and dogs. Stones develop when a multitude of microscopic crystals clump together, this doesn’t always happen and so crystals can exist without forming stones. As crystals clump together, they form small stones which can become larger over time and pose more of a problem as the issue gets larger and more painful. When crystals form into small stones they can become life threatening if the stones get lodged in the exit of the bladder thus blocking the exit route. Crystals form from dissolved minerals within the urine in the bladder. These minerals enter the bladder via the kidneys from waste products via food. Altered urinary pH has a role to play in the formation of stones and crystals. Urine pH varies depending on the animal’s diet (Nelson et al) due to the waste products which have been filtered and excreted by the kidney. Symptoms of bladder stones include: Irritation of the bladder lining Blood in the urine Pain when passing urine Urinating small amounts frequently Persistent need to urinate Cloudy or discoloured urine Bloated or sensitive stomach Pain in the abdomen or kidney region Bladder stones are seen more frequently in dogs that experience bladder infections. In our experience we see this due to antibiotic use, a carbohydrate dense diet, poor gut microbiota, food intolerances, food allergies, dehydration and the like. Research has shown some common causes of kidney and bladder stones in canines which tend to be more standard. Causes of these stones can be from the following: Genetics Water Consumption Amount of water in the diet Quantity of and Quality of protein The pH of a dog’s urine Infections Crystals in the urine are diagnosed by a microscopic examination of fresh urine to determine the type of crystal. The urine will also be tested with a strip to determine pH level and presence of blood, White Blood Cells, protein levels and concentration or specific gravity. Determining the type of crystal is very important before we can recommend a suitable diet. These are struvite, oxalate, urate and cystine crystals. Treatment By far the most important way of combatting crystal formation is by adding water to the diet. Feeding moist foods dilutes the urine and promotes more frequent urination. This in turn reduces the likelihood of crystal formation as the urine does not sit in the bladder for so long. Some crystals and stones can be dissolved with dietary supplements alone, changing to a natural balanced wet diet can be enough to irradiate the problem. Some stones cannot be dissolved with diet alone. Other cases need medication or if they are just too large, will require surgical removal. Prescription diets are available with manipulated ingredients and urinary acidifiers. Types of crystals Struvite Magnesium Ammonium Phosphate, triple phosphate Struvite stones are one of the most common types of bladder stones found in dogs. In most cases, struvite bladder stones are caused by infection, namely Staphylococci and Proteus bacteria being the usual culprits. This infection is often contracted from the lower urinary tract. Struvite occurs in alkaline urine (above pH 7) 85% of cases are found in female dogs A meat based diet will naturally make the urine more acidic which can help Often seen alongside recurring bladder infections Supplements tend to assist in creating a healthier pH Helpful supplements – Cranberry extract (Proanthocyanidins, PACs) – proven to reduce bacteria such as E coli Howell AB. Bioactive compounds in cranberries and their role in prevention of urinary tract infections. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2007 Jun;51(6):732-7. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.200700038. PMID: 17487930. – Methionine– is an amino acid that has been proven to acidify the urine Siener R, Struwe F, Hesse A. Effect of L-Methionine on the Risk of Phosphate Stone Formation. Urology. 2016 Dec;98:39-43. doi: 10.1016/j.urology.2016.08.007. Epub 2016 Aug 9. PMID: 27521063. – N -Acetyl Glucosamine – helps bladder support, may reduce inflammation and sooth the bladder wall. Theoharides TC, Kempuraj D, Vakali S, Sant GR. Treatment of refractory interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome with CystoProtek–an oral multi-agent natural supplement. Can J Urol. 2008 Dec;15(6):4410-4. PMID: 19046494. – Apple cider vinegar – is a wonderful anti microbial Yagnik D, Ward M, Shah AJ. Antibacterial apple cider vinegar eradicates methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus and resistant Escherichia coli. Sci Rep. 2021 Jan 20;11(1):1854. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-78407-x. PMID: 33473148; PMCID: PMC7817673. References Bartges JW, Callens AJ. Urolithiasis. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2015 Jul;45(4):747-68. doi: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2015.03.001. PMID: 26002797. Palma D, Langston C, Gisselman K, McCue J. Canine struvite urolithiasis. Compend Contin Educ Vet. 2013 Aug;35(8):E1; quiz E1. PMID: 23677867. Queau Y. Nutritional Management of Urolithiasis. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2019 Mar;49(2):175-186. doi: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2018.10.004. Epub 2018 Dec 21. PMID: 30583809. Calcium oxalate Microscopic Calcium Oxalate crystals The second most common crystal found in dogs, is calcium oxalate. Current research indicates that urine high in calcium, citrates, oxalates and in an acidic environment, predisposes a pet to developing calcium oxalate crystals. Recent studies have shown diets that cause high urine acidity (urine pH less than 6.5) may predispose dogs to develop this type of bladder stone. These occur in neutral to acidic urine (below pH6.5-7) It is not possible to dissolve these so surgery is needed to remove stones Common in Miniature Schnauzers, Miniature Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Lhasa Apso, Bichon Fris and Shih Tzu) High oxalate foods to be avoided such as spinach, swiss chard some seeds legumes and berries Probiotics are found to be able to breakdown oxalate in the digestive system. A good broad-spectrum probiotic can contribute to this
There are two branches of science that help us understand both ours and our pet’s bodies. Anatomy is the science of body structures and the relationships amongst them. We learned about anatomy through dissection – we carefully cut up body structures to see what they looked like and the relationship they had with those around them. Physiology is the science of body functions -in short how those body parts and structures work. Both branches have sub-branches, for example we may be interested in pathological anatomy – the structural changes associated with disease. In this blog, we are going to take a look at renal physiology – in short, the function of the kidneys. The Urinary System The kidneys form part of the urinary system and overall, this system consists of: Two kidneys Two ureters One urinary bladder One urethra As body cells carry out metabolic activities they consume oxygen and nutrients. During this process, waste products are made. These waste products must be eliminated from the body because if they are left to accumulate, they can become toxic. Just like the respiratory system eliminates carbon dioxide, the urinary system picks up these waste products. But this is not the only function of the urinary system. Functions of the Kidneys Excretion of wastes: By forming urine, the kidneys help excrete waste from the body. Some of these are a result of metabolic processes, like urea and ammonia, which is as a result of the deamination of amino acids, but it also includes creatinine which is a result of breaking down creatine phosphate. Finally, it includes uric acid from the catabolism of nucleic acids. These compounds are all known as nitrogenous wastes as they are wastes that contain nitrogen. The remainder of wastes are foreign substances that have entered the body, like medications and environmental toxins. This is why we look at kidney health when considering the toxins our dogs must break down. Does My Pet Need to Detox? Regulation of blood composition: The kidneys help regulate the blood levels of several ions including sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and phosphate. This is achieved by controlling the excretion of said ions into urine. Why Does My Dog Need Minerals? Regulation of blood pH: The kidneys excrete a variable amount of hydrogen ions into the urine and conserve bicarbonate ions which are an important buffer of hydrogen in the blood. Both of these activities help regulate blood pH. Regulation of blood volume: The kidneys adjust blood volume by conserving or eliminating water in the urine. An increase in blood volume increases blood pressure and a decrease in blood volume decreases blood pressure. Regulation of blood pressure: The kidneys secrete the enzyme renin which activates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone pathway. Increased renin increases blood pressure. Production of hormones: The kidneys produce two hormones, calcitriol helps regulate calcium homeostasis and erythropoietin stimulates the production of red blood cells. Regulation of blood glucose level: Like the liver, the kidneys can use certain amino acids like glutamine in gluconeogenesis, which is the production of new glucose molecules. They can then release glucose into the blood to help maintain a normal blood glucose level. The Contributions of The Urinary System for All Body Systems Skeletal System The kidneys help adjust levels of blood calcium and phosphates needed for building extracellular bone matrix. Nutrition for Bone and Joint Health Muscular System The kidneys help adjust calcium levels for contraction of muscle. Nervous System Through the process of gluconeogenesis, the kidneys provide glucose for ATP production in neurons, especially during fasting or starvation. Endocrine System The kidneys participate in the synthesis of calcitriol, the active form of Vitamin D. They also release erythropoietin which is the hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells. Cardiovascular System As noted previously, the kidneys play a key role in the regulation of blood volume, pressure, and composition. Lymphatic System and Immune Function By increasing or decreasing their reabsorption of water filtered from blood, kidneys help adjust volume of interstitial fluid and lymph. Urine also flushes microbes out of the urethra. Respiratory System The kidneys and lungs cooperate by adjusting pH of body fluids. When Should I be Worried About My Dog Panting? Digestive System As we have mentioned, the kidneys synthesise calcitriol which is the active form of vitamin D. This is necessary for the absorption of dietary calcium. Ageing and the Urinary System With ageing, kidneys do shrink in size; they have decreased blood flow and filter less blood. These age-related changes seem to be linked to a reduction in blood supply to the kidneys for example, with age, blood vessels such as the glomeruli become damaged or decrease in number. There is also a natural decrease in thirst drive with age which brings the added risk of dehydration. Urinary bladder changes include a reduction in size and capacity, along with a weakening of the muscles. This is why urinary tract infections, increased frequency of urination and urinary retention or incontinence becomes an issue with age. It would be easy to conclude that the kidneys main job is to excrete waste, but as you can see, the kidneys contribute to many other body system functions. In addition, they are not the only tissues, organs or systems that handle body wastes. Waste Handling Systems Blood The bloodstream provides a pick-up and delivery service for the transport of wastes, we can think of the bloodstream as our bin wagons. Liver The liver is the primary site for metabolic recycling. The liver rearranges amino acids into other proteins, and also converts them into glucose. The liver also converts toxic substances into less toxic ones. Lungs With each exhalation, the lungs excrete carbon dioxide, along with heat and a little water vapour. Gastrointestinal Tract Through defecation the gastrointestinal tract excretes waste, whether it is undigested foods or metabolic waste products. The kidneys play a number of roles in health, and therefore disease. If you would like to learn more about kidney function and some of our top
In a previous My Pet Nutritionist blog we looked at the function of the urinary system; if you missed it, you can check it out! As you will know, any system that is compromised, results in a range of signs and symptoms. Kidney disease or compromise ideally needs the support of knowledgeable practitioner, but there are many of us who simply want to get our pets off to the best start and support their health before things go rogue. So, we thought we’d do a one stop shop of nutrients that are particularly helpful for supporting general kidney health. B Vitamins Along with vitamin C, the B vits are water soluble and there are eight of them: B1 Thiamin B2 Riboflavin B3 Niacin B5 Pantothenic Acid B6 Pyridoxine B7 Biotin B9 Folate B12 Cobalamin These vitamins are involved in many functions as they help a variety of enzymes do their jobs – they help release energy from macronutrients and they help transport oxygen and energy containing nutrients around the body. B1 is involved in energy metabolism – it helps our dogs turn what they eat into energy. It also plays a role in nervous system function. In addition is helps metabolise certain neurotransmitters which as we know are chemical messages that are sent between the body and brain! Finally, B1 is involved in the synthesis of collagen and other proteins which contributes to structural health and wound healing. B2 or riboflavin is involved in energy production, and it is a cofactor of the master antioxidant glutathione, therefore adequate intake is essential to antioxidant capacities. Does My Dog Need Antioxidants B3 is necessary in the biosynthesis of fatty acids and also in energy production. It is essential for skin health, mucous membrane integrity and digestive and nervous system health. In addition, B3 is involved in DNA replication and repair, blood sugar regulation and also functions as an antioxidant. B5 is involved in energy production, the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, steroid hormones and also vitamins A and D. It is essential in protein and amino acid synthesis along with the formation of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine which is the chief of the parasympathetic nervous system (the rest and digest side of the stress response). Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in the production of protein compounds (like haemoglobin), cells of the immune system, hormones, neurotransmitters, RNA, DNA and many enzymes. It is also involved in the manufacture of prostaglandins, which are produced at the site of injury or infection, largely controlling the inflammatory response. Vitamin B6 also activates the release of glycogen from the liver and muscles, for this reason it is essential to physical activity (and gets depleted in times of high demand). It also helps balance sodium and potassium which in turn, regulates bodily fluids and promotes the normal functioning of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. Known as Vitamin H, for Haar and Haut (hair and skin), we know it more commonly as vitamin B7, or Biotin. This vitamin too helps the body convert food into energy; specifically, biotin is involved in gluconeogenesis, which as we know is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. Biotin is also involved in fatty acid synthesis, which is important in energy metabolism but also key in skin health. Deficiency of biotin has been associated with immune depression and reduced collagen synthesis. Findings Here Of interest, the use of antibiotics decreases the bacterial population of the large intestine which increase the dietary requirement for biotin. Rancid fats also inactive biotin along with chlorine. Good dietary sources of B7 include liver, eggs, salmon, sardines, mushrooms. B9 is essential in growing and dividing cells. A lack of folate has the most impact on those rapidly dividing cells like those in the digestive system, the genital tract and of course red blood cells. B9 is key in the synthesis of structural and functional proteins, and the formation of the master antioxidant, glutathione, is indirectly dependent on folate. And finally, vitamin B12 is essential for DNA and RNA synthesis and for cellular energy production. All cells in all bodies need to know what they are doing, and they need energy to do them; B12 ensures this occurs. There are no known naturally occurring bioactive forms of B12 in plant sources. This is because B12 is synthesised by the bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract of animals, and then absorbed by the host animals. B12 is concentrated in their tissues, which is then eaten by other animals. Sources of B12 include red meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Why Your Dog Needs B12 You can ensure a fresh food diet, rich in these B Vitamins, or with the guidance of a practitioner, consider supplementation in methylated form. Coenzyme Q10 Coenzyme Q10 (COQ10) is an essential compound of the body which is synthesized in the mitochondrial inner membrane. It has many important functions in the body. Firstly, it can be named the key-component of electron transport chain in mitochondria necessary for ATP production and secondly, it can act as an intercellular antioxidant. In the body, COQ10 is found in all systems of organs. The highest concentration of ubiquinone is noted in the tissues of the heart, liver, muscles and you guessed it, kidneys! In poor kidney function, levels of COQ10 are often depressed, and much research has indicated that COQ10 may have favourable effects on cardiac function, glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease. Findings Here Cordyceps Cordyceps cicadae, a caterpillar-shaped medicinal mushroom that derives its nutrients from larvae of Cicada flammata Dist., has been utilized in Chinese herbal medicine for thousands of years. All Cordyceps species are endoparasitoids, living mainly on insects and other arthropods. It has been well evidence that the use of cordyceps has demonstrated beneficial effects in decreasing the progression of end-stage kidney disease. Findings Here it is largely thought this is due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulant properties. But that doesn’t mean we have to wait
If you have a Dalmatian, chances are, you’ve been told or have read that he should really be on a low purine diet. We could easily make a list of low purine foods for you, but that wouldn’t be true My Pet Nutritionist style, so let’s take a look at the function of purines, and although they affect a range of cellular processes, they can be somewhat problematic for some dogs. What are Purines? Purines are one of the most common chemical compounds on the planet. There are both endogenous and exogenous. Exogenous purines are absorbed by the body through the foods eaten, and endogenous purines are made by the body itself. Purines and pyrimidines are the two families of nitrogenous base that make up nucleic acids – in short, they are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. A, C, G and T are the letters of DNA code, and they stand for: Adenine Cytosine Guanine Thymine Adenine and Guanine are both purines, and the rule of base pairing means that a purine will always pair with a pyrimidine. Purines have a number of functions in the body: Signalling molecule Provide energy Control cell growth Part of essential coenzymes Contribute to nervous system function (including neuronal development). It’s easy to see that purines perform many important functions in the cell, and so the balance between its synthesis and degradation is essential. When purines are catabolised, the result is uric acid. In all other mammals, apart from humans and Dalmatians, uric acid is then converted to allantoin, which is a very soluble excretion product. For us humans and those unlucky dogs, we excrete uric acid, through the kidneys (with some excreted through the gastrointestinal tract). Now uric acid is suggested to behave as a potent antioxidant. It is also thought to maintain blood pressure under low salt conditions and has been seen to function as an anti-inflammatory in certain diseases, but when levels become too high, in a condition known as hyperuricemia, problems can ensue. In humans, this can result in diseases such as kidney stones and gout and may cause hypertension. In Dalmatians, high uric acid levels result in bladder stones. Bladder Stones Bladder stones are rock-like formations of minerals that form in the urinary bladder and are more common than kidney stones in dogs. There may be a large, single stone or a collection of stones that range in size from sand-like grains to gravel. The general signs of bladder stones similar to the signs of an uncomplicated bladder infection or cystitis. – Hematuria (blood in the urine) – Dysuria (straining to urinate). Hematuria occurs as the stones rub against the bladder wall, irritating and damaging the tissue and causing bleeding. Dysuria may result from inflammation and swelling of the bladder walls or the urethra (the tube that transports the urine from the bladder to the outside of the body), from muscle spasms, or from a physical obstruction to urine flow. Large stones may act almost like a valve or stopcock, causing an intermittent or partial obstruction at the neck of the bladder, the point where the bladder attaches to the urethra. Small stones may flow with the urine into the urethra where they can become lodged and cause an obstruction. If an obstruction occurs, the bladder cannot be emptied fully; if the obstruction is complete, the dog will be unable to urinate at all. If the obstruction is not relieved, the bladder may rupture. The Natural Guide to Urinary Tract Health for Pets Other causes of urate bladder stones include liver diseases such as portosystemic shunts. The Lowdown on Liver Shunts in Dogs Dalmatians demonstrate a genetic mutation which affects their urate transport in the liver and kidney. Of interest, additional studies have found the same mutation in some Bulldogs and Black Russian Terriers. That said, the haplotype is not fixed for these breeds and so it suggested the disease could be eliminated through selection of the gene pool. There are schools of thought that the diseased allele arose through selection for more distinctive spots on the dalmatian, as smaller spotted Dalmatians are less likely to suffer the condition. Findings Here This is a point to note, as not all Dalmatians do form stones. Genetic mutations aside, there are additional factors which can affect purine metabolism and subsequent uric acid formation. High levels of uric acid are often associated with: Kidney disease Liver disease Endocrine and metabolic conditions – diabetes for example There are also schools of thought that high levels of uric acid are implicated in poor pancreatic function too. Findings Here Uric Acid and The Microbiota It is thought that around 1/3 of uric acid excretion occurs via the intestinal pathway. When uric acid is excreted into the gut, it is then metabolised by resident bacteria. What is interesting is that when kidney function is impaired, uric acid will mainly be eliminated by the intestine as compensation. It’s not therefore not entirely surprising that there is a correlation between efficient uric acid metabolism and certain strains of bacteria found in the gut. Human studies have found a significantly reduced bacterial diversity in patients suffering with gout compared to controls. Findings Here If we get into the science of it, Escherichia coli is thought to secrete an enzyme known as xanthine dehydrogenase which participates in the oxidative metabolism of purines, so as much as we pop E.coli on our baddies list, in this instance, it actually helps us (in moderation)! Findings Here It does go to show however, that if you do have a dog who isn’t efficiently metabolising purines, their gut health should also be something to focus on. 7 Steps to Optimal Gut Health Low Purine Die There are a number of breeds who are listed for their purine metabolism problems, they include: Dalmatian Beagle Basset Hound Bulldogs Cocker Spaniel Bichon Frise Miniature Schnauzer Lhasa Apso Miniature Poodle Yorkshire Terrier Dachshund Irish Terrier Irish Setter Newfoundland Black Russian Terriers As yet, there are
Whilst looking at micronutrients separately can be a somewhat reductionist view of both health and disease, we can’t deny that in many conditions we see here at My Pet Nutritionist, deficiencies may appear. We haven’t covered a specific nutrient for a while, so we thought we’d start again with Folate. Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin that is naturally present in some foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement. Folate, formerly known as folacin and sometimes vitamin B9, is the generic term for naturally occurring food folates. Folic acid is the fully oxidized monoglutamate form of the vitamin that is used in fortified foods and most dietary supplements. In short, folate is the natural form, folic acid is the synthetic form. In 1930, Lucy Wills found that marmite could cure macrocytic anaemia in pregnant women, since then we have consistently reinforced the role of folate as a key nutrient for health (and particularly for maternal health and foetal development). Folate comes from the latin folium, largely because folates were first isolated from spinach. Vitamin B9 or folate functions as a coenzyme, which in short means it assists enzymes to catalyse a reaction. B9 plays a role in: Producing nucleic acids (like DNA), Forming blood cells in bone marrow, Ensuring rapid cell growth in infancy, adolescence, and pregnancy, Controlling blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine, Utilizing amino acids in building new proteins. In short, B9 is important in normal blood formation, immune function, cell division and tissue growth. Signs and Symptoms of Deficiency Atrophy of the digestive tract epithelium; reduced absorption of nutrients, diarrhea, anorexia and weight loss, Reduced production of platelets can increased risk of abnormal bleeding, Impairments in white blood cell development can reduce immune response, Elevated blood homocysteine, Impaired foetal growth, Behaviour changes – depression, irritability. Anaemia Folate Deficiency Anaemia Anaemia is a blood disorder where the number of red blood cells is lower than usual. Red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of the body, so in cases of anaemia, oxygen doesn’t get to tissues and organs. Without oxygen, they can’t carry out the functions they are supposed to. In addition, low folate levels can cause megaloblastic anaemia where red blood cells are larger than normal. As they are larger, they aren’t always able to leave the bone marrow, and so they can’t enter the blood stream to deliver oxygen where it needs to go. Causes of Folate Deficiency It goes without saying that a diet low in naturally occuring folates can result in folate deficiency, but deficiencies usually occur due to small intestinal disease or pancreatic insufficiency. In addition, they can also occur due to chronic use of certain medications. Like vitamin B12, folate is bound to protein so it must be freed by processing or digestion. Digestion starts in the stomach, but then soon calls upon the pancreas to help out with the production of digestive enzymes. Folate is chiefly absorbed in the small intestine so any dysfunction or inflammation here will result in malabsorption. This is why folate deficiency is often seen in inflammatory bowel disease. Gut Guardian Folate deficiency is regularly noted in cases using: Anticonvulsant medication, Sulfasalazine – to treat IBD/colitis, Diuretic medication, Homocysteine Homocysteine is an amino acid that is usually changed into other amino acids ready to be used by the body, but this process depends on other coenzymes and folate is one of them. When folate is low, homocysteine levels can creep up. High homocysteine levels have been associated with: Heart disease, Kidney disease, Arthritis, Neurodegeneration, In humans, we pay a lot of attention to a gene known as MTHFR, for us, this gene can have a glitch which means we don’t convert folate to its active form. As a result, those with MTHFR mutations can suffer with high homocysteine levels. We are still building our understanding in canines, but it appears dogs too can suffer genetic glitches which can affect how well they metabolise and utilise folate. A study carried out in 2014 explored the link between homocysteine levels in dogs and cardiovascular disease, inflammatory conditions, skin and kidney disease. They established breed differences in homocysteine levels, suggesting a genetic component to folate handling, like in humans. In addition, they concluded a strong relationship between high homocysteine levels and skin disease in dogs. Findings Here Folic Acid Supplementation Folic acid often remains unmetabolized in the body, this is the synthetic supplement form. As it is not a normal metabolite, it must first be reduced before it can enter the folate cycle. There are also schools of thought that folic acid competes with naturally occurring folates. For this reason, supplementation should ideally be folate in it’s methylated form. You also bypass the potential issue of genetic glitches. But, if there are no genetic glitches which affect how well your dog metabolises folate, then feeding a nutrient dense, fresh food diet should be sufficient. Sources of Folate: Dark leafy greens – spinach, broccoli, Liver, Seafood, Seeds, Eggs, Nuts, High levels of folate can often mask B12 deficiency, so take a look at our B12 blog for more information. Why Your Dog Needs Vitamin B12 Summary If your dog is suffering with digestive dysfunction, it may affect how well he utilises nutrients, so tackling this is essential. Folate deficiency is often seen in cases of inflammatory bowel disease and pancreatic dysfunction. Natural Guide for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Pancreatitis: Natural Guide for Pets 7 Steps to Optimal Gut Health If you would like more information on vitamin deficiencies in your dog, then check out our blog here: Does My Dog Have a Vitamin Deficiency As always if you are concerned about your dog’s diet, whether he is getting the right nutrients he needs, or indeed whether he is utilising them as needed, then check out our services to see if we can help explore some of these questions with you. Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
