Why is gut health so important?

The gut is inhabited by billions of microbes (tiny organisms). These bacteria have an impact on the physiology and wellbeing of pets. A pet’s gut can’t function properly without the microbes living and working in the gut. This ecosystem of bacteria provides a large number of life-supporting functions that can help towards a pet living a healthy life. There are a wide range of benefits for maintaining a healthy gut.

Supporting Immune Function
A large amount of the immune system is centred in the gut and so the microbes living there have an impact on a pet’s immune function. Approximately 70% of the body’s immune Lymphatic tissue (made up of white blood cells, bone marrow, spleen and lymph nodes) is located in the digestive tract, mostly in the form of Gut Associated Lymphatic Tissue also known as the GALT. The GALT contains many types of immune cells that optimise the efficiency of the immune response. Therefore, a healthy digestive system is important for optimal immune support.

Soothes Sensitive Tummies
An upset stomach is a common pet symptom that could indicate a problem in the gut. Hypoallergenic diets are a great option for dogs with a more sensitive digestion, as they can be used to help eliminate common allergens from the diet. Our 'Grain Free' and 'Orchard’s Prime' Superfood 65 ranges are hypoallergenic as these recipes have been formulated without grains (such as wheat, maize & barley), soya and dairy. If Grain intolerance is not the issue we also have Single Protein Source recipes to help eliminate specific proteins from the diet when necessary, in our 'Naturals Choice Blend' range that contain Rice along with either Barley or Oats for the most sensitive digestion. Of course, our 'Super Premium' Hypoallergenic range is also formulated without Wheat or Wheat Gluten, which are thought to be the most common cause of allergies where pet food is concerned, making it suitable for most dogs. 

Maintaining Joint Health
Painful joints can have a major impact on active pets. It may be surprising that improving a pets gut health may help to ease those pains and improve their physical strength.

Here at Orchard House our Veterinary Approved recipes have been formulated with ingredients that can help to support a pets gut health. Prebiotics are one of them, which are classed as non-digestible ingredients that probiotics (the good bacteria in the gut) can feed off. These help to increase the populations of healthy bacteria in the gut to help support good digestion. Prebiotics MOS (Mannanoligosaccharides) and FOS (Fructooligopsaccharides) have been provided naturally in our recipes. Beet Pulp is another ingredient used, that helps to encourage good stool formation and promote normal gastrointestinal movement so that an optimal level of nutrients can be absorbed from the food.