Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury, infection, and harmful substances. While this can prove helpful in some cases, chronic or excessive inflammation can lead to various health issues in our animal companions. Recognizing the subtle signs early on can significantly improve their health. This guide will help you identify the hidden signs of inflammation in dogs and cats, as well as how to prevent and treat it.
Understanding Inflammation
Inflammation involves redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function. These signs often appear when your animal companion suffers an injury or infection. However, inflammation can also occur internally, affecting organs, joints, and tissues, which make it harder to detect.
Common Causes of Inflammation in Dogs and Cats
Inflammation can be caused by a number of issues, including:
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections trigger inflammation. Common examples include skin infections, ear infections, and dental infections.
- Injuries: Physical trauma such as cuts, sprains, or fractures lead to localized inflammation.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis cause the immune system to attack healthy tissues, leading to chronic inflammation.
- Allergies: Reactions to certain foods, environmental allergens, or insect bites cause inflammation.
- Dietary Factors: Poor diet choices or food sensitivities contribute to chronic inflammation.
How to Spot Hidden Signs of Inflammation in Dogs
- Behavioral Changes: Dogs may become more irritable, lethargic, or show signs of discomfort when touched.
- Digestive Issues: Chronic inflammation manifests as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite.
- Skin and Coat Changes: Look for redness, swelling, or unusual lumps under the skin. Dogs with allergies often develop dermatitis or otitis.
- Mobility Issues: Limping, stiffness, or reluctance to move indicate joint inflammation.
How to Spot Hidden Signs of Inflammation in Cats
- Subtle Behavioral Changes: Cats may hide more, become less active, or show changes in grooming habits.
- Digestive Problems: Inflammation in the digestive tract causes vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss.
- Skin and Coat Issues: Redness, swelling, or hair loss signal skin inflammation. Cats with allergies may develop dermatitis.
- Changes in Litter Box Habits: Difficulty urinating or defecating indicates inflammation in the urinary or digestive systems.
Natural Supplement Duralactin® Helps Manage Inflammation
Preventative measures for inflammation include a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients, regular exercise, avoiding both food and environmental allergens, and regular vet check-ups. When chronic inflammation does occur, pet parents can consider Duralactin, a natural product derived from milk proteins that contains MicroLactin®. This patented dried milk protein concentrate reduces inflammation without the side effects often associated with traditional anti-inflammatory drugs. Duralactin can be particularly beneficial for dogs and cats, and even horses, with chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis or dermatitis. Check out the success stories from real pet parents here.
By watching out for these hidden signs, you can get veterinary attention sooner and help your furry friends lead healthier, happier lives.
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Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
