Feeding your dog with laryngeal paralysis requires careful consideration to prevent further strain on their already compromised airway.
Dogs with laryngeal paralysis often experience difficulty swallowing, so it's essential to feed them in a way that minimizes the effort required to eat.
A high-calorie, high-fat diet can be beneficial as it provides more energy per bite, making meals easier to consume.
Moist food can be particularly helpful as it's easier to swallow than dry food, reducing the risk of choking or inhaling food particles.
A study found that 75% of dogs with laryngeal paralysis benefited from a change to a moist food diet.
Related reading: Laryngeal Paralysis
Natural Support
Feeding a suitable diet is incredibly important for dogs with Laryngeal Paralysis, especially post-surgery. A fresh cooked diet is generally recommended due to reduced motility of the neck muscles.
Soft food is a good option as it reduces further trauma to the larynx. The muscles around the larynx being inefficient at properly contracting and relaxing makes it hard for dogs to swallow as efficiently as those without the condition.
Discover more: Feed Dog Raw Diet
Raw Diet Options
If you're considering a raw diet, you have several options to choose from.
A raw vegan diet, discussed in the "Nutrient-Rich Foods" section, focuses on plant-based foods that are not heated above 115°F. This diet excludes all animal products and can be beneficial for those with certain health conditions.
One popular raw diet option is the 80/10/10 diet, which involves eating 80% carbohydrates, 10% protein, and 10% fat. This diet is based on the work of Dr. Douglas Graham, who advocates for a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
The "Benefits of Fermentation" section highlights the importance of incorporating fermented foods into your raw diet. These foods, such as sauerkraut and kefir, contain beneficial probiotics that support gut health.
Raw foodists also often incorporate sprouted grains and legumes into their diet. These foods are easier to digest and can provide a boost of nutrients.
Homemade Food Recipes
Feeding a fresh cooked diet is incredibly important for dogs suffering with Laryngeal Paralysis, especially post-surgery.
Soft food reduces further trauma to the larynx, making it a suitable choice for dogs with this condition.
The reduced motility of the neck muscles in dogs with Laryngeal Paralysis makes it harder for them to swallow food efficiently.
Peristalsis, the wave-like motion of muscle contractions and relaxations, is impaired in dogs with Laryngeal Paralysis, making it harder for food to move through the digestive tract.
Swallowing soft food can help reduce the strain on the larynx and make eating easier for dogs with this condition.
Intriguing read: What Food Makes Dogs Sick
Herbal Remedies
Herbal Remedies can be a great way to support your overall health and well-being. Turmeric, for example, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms of arthritis.
Ginger has been used for centuries to aid digestion and relieve nausea. It's also a natural pain reliever that can be used to soothe headaches and muscle aches.
Echinacea is a popular herbal remedy that can help boost your immune system and fight off colds and flu. Some studies have found that it can reduce the severity and duration of these illnesses.
Peppermint oil has been shown to have a calming effect on the digestive system, which can help alleviate symptoms of IBS. It's also a natural breath freshener that can leave your mouth feeling clean and refreshed.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Non Surgical Treatment for Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs
Vitamins and Minerals
Dogs with laryngeal paralysis may require some extra attention to their diet to help manage their symptoms.
Supplementing their diet with omega 3 can help bring down any inflammation in and around the affected area, ultimately helping them swallow and breathe more efficiently.
Magnesium and Vitamin B complexes are also important to ensure your dog is getting enough of these nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What aggravates laryngeal paralysis in dogs?
Excitement, stress, exercise, and exposure to hot and humid temperatures can suddenly worsen breathing in dogs with laryngeal paralysis, making it a medical emergency
How do I make my dog comfortable with laryngeal paralysis?
To help your dog with laryngeal paralysis, consider reducing stress and heat exposure, as well as implementing lifestyle changes such as weight loss and physical therapy to maintain muscle mass. Additionally, using a harness instead of a collar can also promote comfort and reduce strain on the affected area.
Sources
- Recognizing Laryngeal Paralysis (Lar Par) in Your Dog (amcny.org)
- Helping and Supporting Your Dog with Laryngeal Paralysis (preventivevet.com)
- Guide to Laryngeal Paralysis (mypetnutritionist.com)
- Laryngeal Paralysis (acvim.org)
- Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs (ellevetsciences.com)
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