IBD in Dogs and Cats: Natural Tips That Really Work

Chronic vomiting, diarrhea, painful stomachs, and acid reflux—these are all signs of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and unfortunately, it’s far too common in our dogs and cats.

If your pet is showing any of these signs, it can be worrying. The good news is, there are natural options that can help, and one of my favorites is our new digestive enzyme supplement: Dr. Jones’ COMPLETE Digestive Care Soft Chews.

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

IBD isn’t just a single disease—it’s a syndrome caused by chronic irritation of the intestines. The exact cause is often unknown, but food sensitivities or bacterial antigens may trigger it. Sometimes, overstimulation of the immune system from vaccines or other antigens plays a role.

Whatever the trigger, the result is inflammation in the intestinal lining. This allergic-type reaction interferes with nutrient digestion and absorption. Most pets with IBD show recurrent vomiting or diarrhea, and some have a poor appetite—or in some cases, a ravenous appetite because they can’t absorb the nutrients from their food properly.

Signs Your Pet Might Have IBD

IBD can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, but most commonly:

• Stomach: chronic vomiting

• Intestines: chronic diarrhea

• Both: some pets show both vomiting and diarrhea

Over time, poor appetite and weight loss are common. Recognizing these signs early can make a big difference in how effectively we manage the condition.

Natural IBD Treatments That Work

Here are some of the best natural approaches I recommend for supporting pets with IBD:

1. Dietary Therapy

• Feed a novel protein or hydrolyzed protein diet to reduce intestinal irritation.

2. Probiotics

• A high-quality, multi-strain probiotic like Dr. Jones’ ULTIMATE Probiotic Formula can help restore healthy gut flora.

3. Anti-diarrheals

• Loperamide (Imodium): 1mg per 20 lbs, twice daily for 3 days.

4. Natural Immunosuppressives

• Cannabidiol (CBD): 3mg per 10 lbs, twice daily.

• Licorice Root: 1/4 ml per 10 lbs, twice daily for 10 days—a natural steroid alternative.

Herbal and Nutritional Support

Slippery Elm

Slippery Elm comes from the inner bark of the Red Elm tree. It forms a gel when mixed with water, which helps protect and lubricate the digestive tract. Its tannins reduce inflammation, while the mucilage helps with waste elimination.

Dose: 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of organic powder once or twice daily, or one 350–400 mg capsule per day.

95% Curcumin

High-potency turmeric extract BCM-95® (my 95% Curcumin) has been shown to reduce inflammation and colitis activity more effectively than standard curcumin.

Digestive Enzymes

While research is limited, many pet owners report significant improvements with digestive enzymes—less vomiting, diarrhea, and intestinal distress. Look for a quality blend containing amylase, lipase, and protease. Our COMPLETE Digestive Care Soft Chews provide a proprietary enzyme blend to help pets with IBD.

Heal Your Pet at Home

IBD can be frustrating to manage, but natural support can make a real difference. Simple additions like Slippery Elm, Curcumin, CBD, probiotics, and digestive enzymes can greatly improve your pet’s quality of life.

Dr. Jones’ COMPLETE Digestive Care Soft Chews are a tasty, easy-to-administer option. Each chew contains a proprietary Digestive Enzyme Blend and 2 Billion CFUs of probiotics, helping pets with:

• Poor nutrient absorption

• Food allergies and sensitivities

• Pancreatitis

• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Your dog or cat will thank you—and you’ll see the difference in their digestion, comfort, and overall health.

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