Supporting Your Pet’s Digestion

How Do I Know if Their Tummies Hurt? 

Your seemingly always-hungry pup suddenly begins vomiting or having diarrhea and refuses to eat. This case of an upset stomach – also called gastroenteritis – is caused by stomach inflammation, possibly due to an infection, sensitivities to certain foods or medications, eating food meant for people or stress and anxiety, among other causes. 

Like their canine counterparts, felines’ bellies might also hurt for many of the same reasons, with the added problem of hairballs. The occasional hairball isn’t anything out of the ordinary for a cat, but if they’re coughing them up more frequently than usual or can’t seem to produce them when they need to, it could point toward an underlying concern. The symptoms of an upset stomach in kitties are also similar to dogs, but they also tend to hide out in their cat beds or condos when they don’t feel well.

Does My Pet Need to See the Vet for an Upset Stomach?

If their decrease in appetite only lasts one or two days, consider scheduling an appointment with the vet. Moderate symptoms include diarrhea or vomiting alongside less of an appetite, and if they don’t go away in 24 hours, consult the vet. As these signs persist longer, emergency care is essential. 

Vets have the knowledge and equipment to properly diagnose your pet, and they’ll often start with a complete physical exam followed by lab work, X-rays or ultrasounds if necessary. Once they assess the problem – whether it’s eating something they weren’t supposed to or an underlying condition that causes the symptoms – vets will recommend the best treatment.

Can I Prevent an Upset Stomach in the First Place? 

Although diseases that affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract require specific treatment, you can help your furry friend avoid bellyaches. Other than medications prescribed by the vet, you can also consider digestion-support supplements for cats and dogs. You can further protect their stomach health – and overall wellness – with these prevention tips: 

Ensure They’re Well-Fed with Nutritious Food 

What goes in their mouths affects what happens in their stomachs, so food formulated for their wellness may help keep tummy aches from occurring. Our selection features high-quality cat and dog food packed with health features that support their digestive system: 

Dog Food for Pups with Sensitive Tummies 

When your dog has an upset stomach, the vet might recommend switching to a bland diet or giving them food with probiotics or prebiotics to support digestion. Stick to their suggestions, and if you’re considering another option, always consult the vet first to avoid further problems. Some canines have sensitivities to select ingredients, so options free of gluten, grain or soy, for example, can go easier on their stomachs. 

You don’t need to change their diet substantially just to ensure healthy digestion. Find options that support digestion whether your pup prefers dry dog food or wet dog food (which can also boost their hydration). Some canines need a little extra flavor to eat their meals, and dog food toppers that aid with digestion or for a sensitive stomach fit right in with their existing diets. 

Cat Food to Keep Their Stomachs Happy 

The same issue can occur with cats, who are often more finicky than dogs. Besides consistent diets, try not to feed them something they don’t often eat. If you must change their food, slowly introducing them to the new item on the menu can prevent a disagreeable tummy. Whether they like to bite down on dry cat food or could use a little extra hydration with wet cat food, you have options when supporting their digestion. 

Try cat food enriched with probiotics for even more support for their gut health. Cats might also have a hard time digesting certain ingredients, so consider feed free from gluten, corn and grain, among other ingredients. 

Keep Mealtimes and Food Choices Consistent

Once your pet seems to enjoy or do well on a certain formula, try not to switch it very often, as doing so can affect their eating and digestion. If you do need to give them different food, introduce it gradually over a few weeks by mixing it in with the original meal instead of replacing it all at once. 

Don’t Go Overboard with Treats

They’re so lovable that sometimes you just want to shower them with dog or cat treats, but these snacks should feel special and not become a regular thing. Too many fatty treats can overwhelm stomachs, especially when they already eat well several times a day. 

Keep Them from Swallowing Things They Shouldn’t 

Dogs and cats are naturally curious creatures, and sometimes they use their mouths to interact with new objects. Non-food items aren’t meant for digestion and can lead to blockages, and you should also ensure pets don’t gobble up table scraps from your dinner or get into the garbage can. These are just some of the foreign objects a pet might accidentally swallow you want to deter them from: 

• Houseplants that can irritate the digestive tract
• Strings, ribbons or dental floss, which are especially attractive to cats
• Potentially toxic substances (i.e. human medications, household cleaners, pest control)

It’s not just because they’re mischievous – pets love to play, and they may do so with the first items they find. So, having plenty of dog and cat toys in your house can divert their mouths from things they shouldn’t swallow. For example, chasers and teasers for kitties offer a similar alternative to a string that they can run after. If your pup is known for biting objects, giving them a chew toy keeps them engaged. 

At the same time, when toys get old, throw them out before pieces begin breaking off. Besides possibly causing a blockage in the GI tract, these small parts could make an animal choke. 

Calm Their Nerves (and Digestive Systems)  

The connection between physical and mental health is not to be overlooked. When pets become stressed, they might be less interested in eating, not to mention symptoms such as indigestion, constipation, vomiting and diarrhea that anxiety may cause. When they struggle to be at peace, consider cat and dog calming aids to settle their nerves. 

Manage Hairballs and Shaggy Coats 

When your kitty has more hairballs than normal, it’s a cause for concern, and you should consult the vet. In addition to any medications they prescribe, they might also recommend hairball treatment and brushing their fur more frequently. Check out the wide range of brushes and combs we carry to give your cats – and dogs – a clean, sleek coat. 

Protect Them Against Diseases with Vaccinations  

Vaccinations are essential to build up your companion’s immunity to diseases, which can impact the GI tract (i.e. parvovirus in dogs), or intestinal parasites (worms) that might cause upset stomachs. Puppies and kittens may not have received vaccines or been wormed by the vet yet, so these illnesses might disrupt their digestive system more. Our selection includes dog and cat dewormers, plus vaccines for felines and canines, but always check with your veterinarian first before administering. 

Support Happy, Hungry Pets with Tractor Supply 

When you understand pet digestion, you can better ensure their overall health and see them licking their bowls clean. Get started alleviating or preventing upset stomachs with the wide range of products for cats and dogs we offer. Visit your local Tractor Supply store today or browse our selection online.