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Just like us humans, your pet’s gut health plays a huge role in their overall wellbeing—from digestion and immunity to mood and energy levels. But because our furry companions can’t tell us when something feels off, it’s up to us to spot the signs and give their tummies the TLC they deserve.

If your dog or cat has been acting a little "off," it might be more than just a bad day—it could be their gut trying to get your attention.

Here’s how to tell if your pet’s gut health needs some love and, more importantly, what you can do about it.

🐾 Why Gut Health Matters

Your pet’s gut isn’t just about digestion—it’s the command centre for all kinds of important functions:

• Immunity: Around 70% of your pet’s immune system lives in their gut.

• Mood: The gut and brain are connected via the "gut-brain axis." An unbalanced gut can lead to anxiety or behavioural changes.

• Nutrient absorption: A healthy gut helps your pet get all the goodness out of their food.

When things go out of balance—whether from stress, poor diet, antibiotics, or environmental changes—it can show up in all sorts of unexpected ways.

⚠️ Signs Your Pet’s Gut Health Might Be Off

1. Tummy Troubles

If your pet has:

• Diarrhoea

• Constipation

• Frequent gas

• Stomach gurgling

• Vomiting

...it could be a gut imbalance. Occasional upsets happen, but if it's recurring or lasts more than a day or two, it’s worth looking into.

2. Bad Breath

Funky breath isn’t just a dental issue—it can be a sign of poor gut health, especially if their teeth are in good shape. A sour or unusually strong odour might mean their digestion isn’t working properly.

3. Itchy Skin or Ears

Itchy skin, ear infections, or hotspots can sometimes be traced back to gut-related allergies or sensitivities.

4. Changes in Appetite or Weight

A sudden loss of interest in food, or the opposite—constantly begging or scavenging—could be gut-related.

5. Low Energy or Mood Swings

Feeling flat, anxious, or more irritable than usual? That could be your pet’s gut-brain connection in action.

6. Frequent Infections or Poor Healing

Recurring infections or slow healing may point to a compromised immune system due to poor gut health.

⚒️ How to Support Your Pet’s Gut (and Get It Back on Track)

1. Start with a High-Quality Diet

A balanced, natural diet is the foundation of gut health. Look for food that:

• Uses real, whole ingredients

• Is free from artificial colours, fillers, or preservatives

• Is appropriate for your pet’s age, breed, and sensitivities

2. Add a Probiotic or Digestive Supplement

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy microbiome. Look for:

• Pet-specific probiotic powders or chews

• Natural supplements with prebiotics, pumpkin, slippery elm, or turmeric

💡 Tip: Always choose supplements made specifically for pets, and ideally vet-formulated or naturopath approved.

3. Try Functional Treats

Not all treats are created equal! Choose functional snacks with gut-friendly ingredients like:

• Goat milk

• Fermented fish

• Pumpkin or probiotics

4. Limit Antibiotics and Medications Where Possible

Repeated or unnecessary antibiotics can harm good gut bacteria. If your pet has been on meds, probiotics can help restore balance.

5. Minimise Stress

Stress affects gut health! Help reduce it with:

• Routine and structure

• Safe, calm spaces

• Calming supplements or chews (we stock a few great options!)

🧠 When to Talk to Your Vet

Some gut issues need professional help. Call your vet if:

• Symptoms last more than a couple of days

• Your pet is lethargic or in pain

• There's blood in their stool or vomit

• They’re losing or gaining weight rapidly

🐶 Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut (and Theirs)

Your pet’s gut health plays a surprisingly big role in their daily happiness—and yours too! By paying attention to the signs and supporting their digestion with real food, gentle supplements, and the right treats, you can help them feel their best from the inside out.

At That Pet Shop, we only stock products we’d use with our own pets—no fluff, no fillers, just the good stuff. Not sure where to start? Browse our Gut Health Collection or get in touch—we're here to help.

Here’s to healthy tummies and happy pets! 🐾