​How to Put Your Pet on a Detox (and Why They’ll Thank You)

There’s so much talk about how us humans can go on a detox. But did you know that our furry companions benefit from detoxes, too? Pets come in direct contact with harsh chemicals just as much as we do and could use a good cleanse every once in a while. 

Guest Post by Pet Wellbeing

Steps for detoxifying the liver

Thousands of toxins pass through your pet’s liver on a daily basis. Taking care of the liver is essential so it can continue to properly remove waste from the body. Follow these steps for detoxing the liver:

• Talk to your vet about supplements: A comprehensive supplement contains all the vitamins and minerals necessary for the liver to do its job. Supplements for the liver include B vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants, trace minerals and milk thistle. These ingredients protect liver cells from free radical damage and prevent toxins from piling up. Always speak to a vet about proper dosage and supplement brands they trust.
• Monitor your pet’s reaction: When your pet starts taking a new supplement, it’s important to observe them for physiological symptoms or changes in behaviour. Minor symptoms may arise during the detox process, such as secretions from the nose, eyes or ears. Flu-like symptoms are more serious and warrant a check in with your vet. If your pet’s symptoms concern you, stop administering the supplement, and they should return to normal in a couple of days.
• See if products such as Pet Wellbeing Detox Gold for Cats and Dogs might be the best first step.

How to detox your pet’s kidneys

The kidneys require very little upkeep. But seeing as they are part of the detox system, pet parents should still make sure the kidneys are functioning properly! They are responsible for flushing out water-soluble toxins, so all you need to do is make sure your pet stays hydrated. Here’s how to add more water to their diet:

• Provide plenty of fresh water: Refill your pet’s water bowls on a daily basis so they stay fresh and clean. Place several bowls throughout the home in areas that are easy to find. If you own a cat, consider purchasing a water fountain. Cats are inclined toward not drinking enough water, so a fountain might make it seem more enticing!
• Add water to their food: Encourage cats to stay hydrated by diluting wet or dry food with a little bit of water. This is especially important for cats that mostly eat commercial kibble. Dogs often enjoy a splash of watered down meat broth in their food bowl for extra flavor and hydration, too!

Detox tips for a healthy gut

The gastrointestinal tract eliminates solid waste from the body. However, the GI tract is also home to your pet’s gut microbiome, a delicate balance of good and bad bacteria that influence many bodily systems. Good bacteria are responsible for trapping toxins released by bad bacteria. Therefore, gut health is an important part of your pet’s detox regimen. Here’s how you can detox the gut:

• Give them a probiotic supplement: Probiotics are healthy bacteria that fortify the gut microbiome and keep toxins in check. Look for a supplement that contains common bacterial strains like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Bacillus. Dogs will easily take a capsule hidden in peanut butter, but cats are a lot pickier. They do better with powder sprinkled on their food or probiotic-rich dry kibble.
• Let them roam outside: This is less of a step to check off than a healthy lifestyle habit. Give your dog or cat the freedom to tap into their natural instincts and explore the surrounding environment. They’ll come in contact with bacteria everywhere they go, which helps diversify the healthy strains in their gut microbiome.

Benefits of detoxing your pet

Now that you know how to detox your furry friend, you’re probably wondering why you should do it in the first place! Pets who start a detox regimen experience the following health benefits:

• Increased energy levels: Toxins that build up in the body can be a real energy zapper! Your pet’s organs have to work overtime to eliminate them, leaving little energy leftover to run and play. A regular detox plan alleviates some of the stress on those organs so your furry friend can spend more time doing what they love.
• Healthy skin and coat: The healing powers of a detox will radiate from the inside out. After a few weeks, you’ll probably notice your pet’s fur is more soft and shiny. Minor skin irritations should also start to clear up. Overall, your pet will look and feel healthier!

Our furry companions are counting on us to keep their detox systems working in top shape. Humans and pets can’t talk to each other, so it’s up to you to decide when your dog or cat is due for a detox. They’re guaranteed to thank you for it!

See Pet Wellbeing comprehensive range of pet supplements HERE.