Stomach pain in dogs and cats is often underestimated by owners because they do not know its typical signs and manifestations. The symptoms of gastric discomfort, on the other hand, are very similar to human ones: inappetence, nausea (manifested by sialorrhea), vomiting. Sometimes one can also observe the assumption of a “closing” or “protective” position (similar to a human walking bent over): this is an unconditional reflex that serves to preserve the abdomen from further damage.

When these symptoms appear, especially if they are repeated over time and for several consecutive days, it is a good idea to contact the veterinary doctor who can assess the causes and provide the best solutions to the problem, such as with a change of diet and the administration of complementary feeds.

Natural remedies to gastric problems

Gastric pain and stomach problems are especially troublesome, both for us and for our four-legged friends. For this reason, for dozens of years, natural medicine has evaluated the best remedies to relieve pain, hyperacidity and gastroesophageal reflux.

Chamomile, for example, has an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effect on the gastric mucosa, while licorice protects stomach cells and reduces inflammation. Lemon balm is an excellent relaxant for contracted muscles, as well as having a mild sedative effect that can benefit in problems of hyperacidity related to emotional tension (e.g., dogs with separation anxiety, or cats that do not accept cohabitation with other animals).

In cases of gastroesophageal reflux, sodium alginate (also naturally occurring and extracted from algae) can create a basic ph gel inside the stomach, which can repair the gastric mucosa from ‘hyperacidity, as well as form a barrier that prevents gastric material from rising from the stomach to the esophagus.

As in human, there are natural products containing these components in veterinary medicine.Your veterinary doctor will be able to recommend the best complementary feed to relieve your dog or cat’s stomach problems.

Dr. Valentina Bregoli, Veterinary Physician