Discover digestive health
As you know digestive upsets are one of the most common reasons for vet visits and it all stems from a pets’ gut health. This area is designed to equip you with all the information and tools to consult your clients around the importance of good digestive health in pets.
Understanding the microbiome
The gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of micro-organisms that is essential for maintaining gastrointestinal health. The intestinal epithelium, in turn, produces mucus which serves as a nutrient source for gut bacteria, creating a mutually beneficial relationship. A growing body of evidence suggests that the microbiome also has far reaching effects on overall health, beyond the digestive system.
The pathophysiology of diarrhoea
Diarrhoea generally results from reduced water absorption (osmotic) or increased water secretion (secretory).
Physiological disturbances include:
- Microbiome alteration
- Changes to the mucous lining of the GI tract
- Damage to enterocytes
- Dehydration
- Loss of electrolytes
- Inflammation
What is Dysbiosis?
The role of prebiotics and probiotics
| Role | Examples | |
|---|---|---|
| Prebiotics | Indigestible carbohydrates that nourish the microbiome | Mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) and fructo oligosaccharides (FOS) |
| Probiotics | Live microorganisms that promote a healthy microbial balance | Enterococcus, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species |
Stabilising the gut: the role of adsorbents
Adsorbents such as Diosmectite (also known as bentonite or montmorillonite), are effective in managing diarrhoea by absorbing water and also adsorbing toxins and pathogens.
Adsorbents can help:
- Stabilise the intestinal environment
- Support normal immune function
- Maintain mucosal integrity
Watch the adsorbents and toxins in veterinary medicine webinar
Supporting the gut: providing energy
In cases of acute diarrhoea, water and electrolytes are lost resulting in dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Providing oral electrolytes help restore and maintain normal electrolyte levels and replace lost salt.
Providing a low-fat source of support helps to support the gut in recovery from acute diarrhoea. Energy provided as dextrose and glucose provides an instance energy source and acts as fuel for rapidly dividing gut cells.
- Dextrose is easily absorbable when the digestive system is compromised
- Glutamine helps the absorption of water and salts
- Dextrose is an instant energy source
- Glutamine helps maintain ad restore normal mucosal integrity
Discover our Select from NVS products for digestion & gut health
Duotox
Duotox is a broad spectrum toxin binder containing a combination of Activated Charcoal and Diosmectite. Designed to help with absorption and excretion.
Probiotic Digestive Paste
Probiotic Digestive Paste for cats & dogs is a complementary feed with a unique formulation to support gastrointestinal health. Designed to stabilise, support and energise.
Duotox
Duotox is a broad spectrum toxin binder containing a combination of Activated Charcoal and Diosmectite. Designed to help with absorption and excretion.
Probiotic Digestive Paste
Probiotic Digestive Paste for cats & dogs is a complementary feed with a unique formulation to support gastrointestinal health. Designed to stabilise, support and energise.
Discover Duotox: The Dual Action Toxin Binder
Useful Resources
Download our useful detailer, infographic and pet owner guide to use in your practice.
