Pets, just like people, can get gassy.
As a pet owner, you’ve probably heard or smelled your dog or cat get gassy before. The good news is that flatulence isn’t usually a cause for concern, because it doesn’t normally indicate a health problem. However, there are a few things that every pet owner needs to know about flatulence, and that’s why our veterinarian in North Merrick has come up with the following guide to gassy pets:
#1. Determine if it is really gas.
If your pet is suddenly starting to get gassy, you should be on the look out for other possible symptoms of a health problem, like a lack of appetite, vomiting, depression, diarrhea, a painful abdomen, audible sounds in the gut and panting, anxiousness or pacing. If your dog or cat isn’t exhibiting any of the other symptoms we’ve gone over, you should know that a flatulence-like odor can come from anal sac secretions (which are completely normal).
#2. Take a look at your pet’s diet.
Some pets may be more sensitive than others to the ingredients in their food. Closely observe what your pet eats, and make sure that you keep track of any foods that they aren’t able to digest or that give them gas. Here are a few common culprits for gassy pets:
- Legumes, like peas, soybeans and beans.
- Grains and other carbohydrates, like wheat, corn, barley, potatoes, rice and many others.
- Protein, like fish, chicken or beef.
If your pet’s food is giving them gas, try a legume or grain-free option or possibly a food that contains a different kind of protein. You may also want to try food that is easier for your pet to digest
Would you like to learn more about gassy pets? If so, please stay tuned for our next blog.