Whether you are new to raw feeding or have been doing it for years, there are still times when we make an error in judgement when feeding our pets.  From feeding too much too soon, feeding enhanced meat, meals that are too big, too much organ meat at one time, or feeding too little bone, there are many reasons why your pets tummy may be upset.  Every dog is different, so doing what worked for one pet may not work for the next.  This goes for both the feeding and the remedying of the situation.

Signs to watch for are your pet acting uncomfortable, needing to go outside frequently, whining/crying, pacing, not acting like his or her usual self.  If you are lucky, they will still be able to control their bowels.  Unfortunately, they can sometimes end up with severe diarrhea, or what we raw feeders refer to as “cannon butt”.  This is where your pet can not hold his bowels and will paint your floors and walls with projectile diarrhea.  If this is the case, it is best if you can keep your pet outdoors if the weather permits or if not, keep him confined to an area that is easy to clean up.

What to do in these instances depends on the severity of the issue and what works best for your pet.  If your pet is just starting raw, make sure you are feeding small amounts of bland meat with plenty of bone (chicken is good as a first meat source).  If you feed too much too soon, it may cause digestive upset.  Check to make sure that the meat you are feeding is not enhanced, as many pets do not tolerate it well.  Do not begin feeding organ meat until your pet is well established with eating three different varieties of meat, then start small.  Make sure you are feeding enough bone. 10% may not be enough in the beginning (or ever).  A little bit firmer is better than having runny poop.

If you have followed these guidelines and are still having issues, consider the following;

Fast your pet for 24 hours.  This gives them time for the stomachs to rest.

Remove the skin/fat from what you are feeding.  Slowly add back in as tolerance allows.

Give a spoonful of canned pumpkin.  This will help firm things up a bit.

Feed your pet Slippery Elm Bark Powder.  Very soothing to the digestive tract.

Imodium, Pepto, and Veterinary issued Kaopectate.   Veterinarian Kaopectate is best, but if not available, Pepto and Imodium will work in a pinch.  Check proper dosage amount for size and type of pet.

Author: Nichole Yax Feb 2013

Don’t give up!  Give your pet time to adjust to raw (and humans time to get it right).  The benefits will far outweigh any inconveniences in the beginning.

Disclaimer: The suggestions in this blog are based on experience and research. They are not meant to replace proper veterinary care.  Carnivore Carry Out suggests researching veterinarians in your area who may be of the holistic variety or who encompasses natural health and its relation to pets before beginning raw diets.  Just as in humans, no diet is one size fits all and a raw-friendly veterinarian may be best at deciding what is right for your pet.  Carnivore Carry Out assumes no responsibility or liability for the use of the information in this blog, as it is provided as a general resource and we are unable to monitor its use with all readers. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, please contact your holistic veterinarian or other competent professional. Please note: If you have an issue with the website, NOT the blog, please contact the owner of the website – you can do so at http://www.carnivorecarryout.com. Thank you.