A properly functioning immune system is essential to the overall well-being of your dog or cat, and it starts with supporting their gut health.
Among the many things the pandemic has taught us is the importance of having a healthy immune system. The same goes for our dogs and cats. A properly functioning immune system can help protect them against a host of problems, not only infectious diseases, but also allergies, cancer, and more. One of the best ways to keep your dog’s or cat’s immune system in top shape is to support their gut health.
INTESTINAL HEALTH AND IMMUNITY
You might be wondering how your pet’s immune system could have anything to do with what’s going on in their gut. The truth is that they are inextricably linked. “A healthy gut is your pet’s first line of defense when it comes to their immune system,” says Karlyn Kubin of ZIWI, a premium pet food company.
“Most immune cells (70% to 80%) are found in the gut,” adds Holly Ganz of AnimalBiome, which offers digestive, skin and oral products for animals. “These immune cells communicate with gut bacteria and together they play a vital role in the development and functioning of the immune system. People with strong immune systems generally have a balanced and diverse community of gut microbes. Likewise, a growing body of scientific research links imbalances in gut bacterial communities to improper immune function. In short, a healthy gut is the key to strong immunity.
“The gut microbiome is made up of billions of living bacteria and fungi,” says Michelle Griffin of MuttGut, which specializes in canine and feline gut health products. “The gastrointestinal microbiota is a complex ecosystem of around 300 to 500 bacterial species, comprising nearly two million genes. These bacteria have a direct impact on the production and behavior of immune cells. Having good bacteria in the gut helps balance a healthy immune response.
SUPPORT GUT HEALTH IN VARIOUS WAYS
Michelle says MuttGut ferments its gut health formula with bentonite clay and turmeric. “Bentonite clay not only alkalizes the gut, but also removes toxins such as heavy metals and plastics. We use high-quality sun-dried turmeric for maximum anti-inflammatory and antiviral benefits, which are enhanced by prolonged fermentation.This process produces metabolites, which are essential for immune function.
AnimalBiome’s products support immunity through gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut microbes and reducing E.coli And Clostridium perfringens. “E.coli the bacteria are normally found along the intestinal tract of cats and dogs, but in high abundance they can impair immune function and cause inflammation,” says Holly. “Several of our products include bacteriophage technology that specifically targets E.coli. Bacteriophages are “good” viruses that… reduce the number of harmful bacteria without affecting beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics feed the “good” bacteria, probiotics introduce important gut species, and postbiotics provide molecules essential for the development of the microbial community.
Although good gut health is one of the main keys to strong immunity, it doesn’t stop there. Many additional supplements can support your dog or cat’s immune system in other ways. It is important to consult with a holistic or integrative veterinarian before starting your pet with anything new, to determine which supplements might be best and at what dosage. Once that’s done, you’ll have a happy, healthy dog or cat that’s well-armed against infection, inflammation, and disease.
Ann Brightman is an editor for Animal Wellness Magazine and Integrative Veterinary Care Journal. A lifelong animal lover, she has also been a writer and editor for over 25 years. Ann is a member of the Professional Writers Association of Canada and is also a Tai Chi instructor.
