Detox
Your companion's ability to switch to a raw diet may require a transition through a period of detoxification. Detoxification is part of a natural healing process whereby the body eliminates toxins through the colon, kidneys, liver, lungs and skin. All dogs and cats react differently to the switch to a raw diet depending on such factors as age, health, and their previous dietary habits. Many commercially prepared kibbles are filled with poor quality ingredients, additives, preservatives, chemicals, sugars, artificial colourings and flavourings. Malnutrition and the toxic condition of your companion can result in the inefficient digestion of the basic food components of a natural, raw diet.
These accumulated toxins can be eliminated through different parts of the body. The organs that most commonly deal with cleansing are the skin, colon and kidneys. Diarrhea, vomiting, itchy skin, ear infections, eye discharge are all common symptoms of detoxification. These types of reactions are natural since the body is cleansing itself from the inside out. The symptoms can range from non-existent to severe in some less common cases.
Symptoms of detoxification should last no more than a few weeks while making the switch to a raw diet for an average healthy animal. Any pet with previous health issues may experience longer or more intense episodes of detoxification. Once the body has cleansed itself of toxins, it is able to assimilate the more healthful nutrients found in a natural, raw diet and gain a higher state of health.
Aloe vera, grapefruit seed extract, calendula, bee pollen, colloidal silver and garlic are natural remedies that may help them through the detoxification process. Regular bathing can also help if skin problems are of issue.
If the symptoms of detoxification persist or intensify, then we recommend that you seek the help of your holistic veterinarian.