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Lymphangiectasia Treatment in Dogs:
Natural Supplements & Diet
Lymphangiectasia in dogs is a gastrointestinal disorder that can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. In dogs with lymphangiectasia, the lymphatic vessels in the intestinal walls become enlarged and may leak lymphatic fluid into the gastrointestinal tract. This can result in the loss of proteins, particularly albumin, from the body, leading to a range of symptoms and potential complications. Often dogs with lymphangiectasia will also be diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). It is not clear if one occurs before the other or that both are a result of the same disease process. Yorkies are the most common breed diagnosed with this condition although it can also be found in other small terriers, soft-coated wheaten terriers, basenji, shar-peis, and rottweilers.
Complications Of Lymphangiectasia In Dogs
Lymphangiectasia can result in a number of complications that can affect your dog's health. These include:
Malabsorption of Nutrients - Enlarged lymphatic vessels in the intestinal walls disrupt the normal absorption of nutrients. This can lead to malabsorption, meaning that essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, and fat-soluble vitamins, are not properly absorbed and utilized by the body.
Protein Loss - One of the significant consequences of lymphangiectasia is the loss of proteins into the intestines. Proteins are vital for maintaining various bodily functions, including immune system health, maintaining blood volume, and providing structural support. The loss of proteins can result in hypoalbuminemia (low albumin levels), leading to edema (fluid accumulation) and potential complications.
Edema and Ascites - The loss of proteins and subsequent decrease in oncotic pressure can result in the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (ascites) and other tissues (edema). This fluid buildup can put pressure on organs, interfere with their normal function, and lead to discomfort and difficulty breathing.
Immune System Compromise - Proteins, especially albumin, play a crucial role in immune function. When protein levels are low due to lymphangiectasia, the dog's immune system may be compromised, making them more susceptible to infections and other illnesses.
Weight Loss and Muscle Wasting - The malabsorption of nutrients, particularly fats and proteins, can lead to weight loss and muscle wasting. Dogs with lymphangiectasia may become visibly thin and weak.
Electrolyte Imbalance - The disruption in nutrient absorption can also lead to electrolyte imbalances, affecting the balance of minerals such as sodium, potassium, and calcium in the body. Electrolyte imbalances can have wide-ranging effects on various physiological processes.
Chronic Diarrhea - Dogs with lymphangiectasia often experience chronic diarrhea due to the malabsorption of nutrients. Prolonged diarrhea can contribute to dehydration and exacerbate the overall health.
Treatment Of Lymphangiectasia In Dogs
Due to these complications, lymphangiectasia requires careful management, often involving dietary modifications, medications, natural supplements and close veterinary monitoring. Treatment aims to control symptoms, address nutritional deficiencies, and improve the dog's overall well-being. Without appropriate intervention, the condition can progress and become life-threatening due to severe malnutrition, organ dysfunction, and complications related to fluid imbalances. Early detection and intervention are crucial for a better prognosis in dogs with lymphangiectasia.
Lymphangiectasia Success Story
Gracie
"Thank you so much for your amazing products. In such a short amount of time from taking the Pancreatitis and Liver Support Kit and Soothing Digestive Relief, our nine-year-old Yorkie Maltese Mix started getting huge relief from Lymphangiectasia. She had less bloating and gas, no more diarrhea, more energy, put on weight, and was not as weak. These supplements seem to combat the negative side effects of the prednisone. She has her energy back and you can tell she feels so much better. Before we started her on these products we felt it was almost time to let her go and started these supplements as a final attempt to help her. Wow…I genuinely feel these products have saved her life. Thank you for saving my sweet Gracie girl. Sincere Thanks!" - Jennifer, Ohio
Natural Supplements For Lymphangiectasia
Supplements can offer several benefits for dogs with lymphangiectasia by improving absorption of nutrients, reducing diarrhea and easing digestive discomfort.
IBD Kit - The IBD Kit is a set of 3 unique supplements to calm and soothe the digestive tract, firm up stool, reduce gas and bloody stool. The Kit includes Power Probiotic, Soothing Digestive Relief & NOT Drops. Power Probiotic replenishes friendly bacteria which are often deficient in dogs with digestive conditions such as Lymphangiectasia, IBD and PLE. NOT Drops help control harmful bacteria, reducing gut inflammation. Soothing Digestive Relief is a natural herbal remedy that contains enzymes to support the stomach and relieve gas and indigestion.
Lypozyme - LypoZyme contains enzymes that help break down fats and improve absorption making it especially helpful for pets with pancreatitis and CIL (Canine Intestinal Lymphangiectasia).
Diet For Dogs With Lymphangiectasia
Dogs with lymphangiectasia often have difficulty digesting and absorbing fats. A low-fat diet helps reduce the workload on the lymphatic system and minimizes the risk of exacerbating symptoms. The goal of the diet is minimize protein loss while improving digestion of nutrients. Feeding a hypoallergenic diet, avoiding common allergens to reduce inflammation, can be helpful. Fish can work well for dogs with lymphangiectasia and it is often incorporated into their diets as part of a management plan. While the specific dietary recommendations should be discussed with a veterinarian and tailored to the individual dog's needs, here are some reasons why fish may be beneficial for dogs with lymphangiectasia:
Low in Fat - Fish, especially certain types like whitefish or some varieties of salmon, can be relatively low in fat compared to other protein sources. In dogs with lymphangiectasia, a low-fat diet is often recommended to ease the workload on the compromised lymphatic system.
High-Quality Protein - Fish is a good source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass, supporting the immune system, and overall bodily functions. It provides necessary amino acids without contributing excessive fat to the diet.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may help modulate the inflammatory response in the digestive tract. This can be beneficial for dogs with gastrointestinal issues, including lymphangiectasia.
Easily Digestible - Fish is generally easy to digest, making it suitable for dogs with compromised digestive systems. This can be particularly important for dogs with lymphangiectasia, where efficient digestion and nutrient absorption are priorities.
Some dog owners mix homemade baked fish with canned fish and sweet potato diets or lower fat raw frozen diets that use a lean novel protein like rabbit.
Ask Ariel has been a leader in helping pets with digestive disorders like Lymphangiectasia since 2005. Our products were used by pet nutritionist Susan Blake Davis in a veterinary hospital setting for over 10 years with much success. AskAriel.com includes free diet tips for dogs with lymphangiectasia on the packing slip that comes with your supplement order.
Article published Feb 24, 2015
Article updated Sep 21, 2024
Written by:
Susan Davis, Pet Health Nutritionist, CCN
All pet treatment protocols and pet treatment supplements have been reviewed and approved by a veterinarian
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