Diarrhea, vomiting, constipation… There are several digestive problems that can surprise your pet throughout its life. When it comes to dealing with occasional gastroenteritis, taking care of your diet becomes an essential aspect. Luckily, like humans, dogs and cats can also consume prebiotic fibers that help them regulate their intestinal transit. In fact, dietary supplements like ground Psyllium seed husk are ideal for breaking a therapeutic fast.
Psyllium, also known as ispagula, are seeds produced by the Plantago ovata plant, which stands out for its mild laxative properties and its ability to improve digestive health and the immune system. It is a natural treatment rich in soluble fiber that, when it comes into contact with water, increases its volume and forms a viscous gel. This helps give consistency to your pet’s feces and facilitates its transit through the digestive system and its expulsion, making it perfect for relieving constipation.
Below, we tell you all the benefits of Psyllium, which you can find for sale in herbalists and pet stores without a veterinary prescription.
Psyllium is a common ingredient in dietary supplements for animals, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which is usually accompanied by probiotics and other sources of fiber in preparations, such as flax seeds. This prebiotic acts as a nutrient for the animals’ microbiota and also helps regulate cholesterol and blood glucose levels. That is why it has been shown to be an effective treatment for gastritis, ulcers and colic.
Psyllium is an effective remedy for when our pet has ingested something that made them ill or when transitioning to new diets. It also serves as a satiating ingredient in dogs that have a lot of anxiety about food. It is very effective for dogs that suffer from fistulas, since it reduces inflammation of the anal glands and promotes evacuation.
In the case of cats, it acts as a source of natural fiber in their diet, especially if they reject vegetables. These seeds usually generate great acceptance and, in addition to helping to improve the absorption of nutrients from food, they prevent hairballs.
Ground Psyllium husk should be mixed with your dog or cat’s soft diet or regular food. The appropriate dose is 1 gram per 10 kilos and they should be hydrated with 10 measures of water for each one of Psyllium. Let them absorb the water for 15 minutes, et voilà! Ready to serve.
