Treating inflammation in pets

Chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues and diseases in our dogs and cats, just like it does for us and can have some serious long-term effects.

Along with other causes, inflammation within the body contributes to:

• Arthritis and other joint issues
• Allergies that can cause itching, redness, and skin problems
• Digestive tract issues that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and other symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
• It contributes to many diseases including diabetes by interfering with insulin production, Heart disease, kidney disease and cancer.
• Inflammation in the respiratory tract can cause coughing, wheezing, and other respiratory problems.

Key causes of inflammation

It’s important to note that inflammation is a normal and necessary response of the body to injury or infection, but if it becomes chronic, it can lead to tissue damage and other health problems such as:

Stress and poor nutrition and poor gut health can lead to inflammation.

Infections: Inflammation is a natural response of the body to an infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can impact all areas of the body.

Allergies: Some dogs and cats may develop an allergic reaction to certain substances, such as food, pollen, dust, or flea bites, which can trigger an inflammatory response.

Trauma: Injuries or physical trauma can cause inflammation as the body tries to repair the damage.

Autoimmune disorders where the immune system may mistakenly attack the body’s own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation, such as dry eye, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

And while inflammation can contribute to the development of many diseases, the diseases themselves can also cause inflammation, so it’s a double edged sword.

How to reduce inflammation in your pet

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or steroids may be prescribed for some conditions,

Dietary changes for food allergies, moving away from inflammatory highly processed foods and adding a probiotic and other gut health supplements to improve and strengthen the gut microbiome,

Other supplements that support joint health and reduce inflammation.

Of course, if you suspect that your pet may be experiencing inflammation, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan.

EAC Animal Care supplements to assist

To learn more about EAC’s In-side out Pre & Probiotic formula, in-fusion Hyaluronic Acid and MSN supplements to boost your Dog and Cat’s health, visit their website.

Dr Melissa Meehan is a highly experienced and respected veterinary surgeon with over 16 years experience. Dr Melissa obtained her Members in Small Animal Medicine through examination in 2008 and now runs her own veterinary ophthalmology service.