Canine gout is a rare disease in which the buildup of uric acid in the blood causes pain. In dogs, this buildup can cause lesions on the front paws that ooze white liquid. Other symptoms include bloody or gritty urine and general malaise. Fortunately, canine gout is a curable condition given the proper medication and dietary changes.
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Medication
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Treating gout in dogs works, in theory, the same way gout is treated in humans. In most situations, your veterinarian will prescribe Allopurinal, which works by cutting down the amount of uric acid in the blood. However, Allopurinal does have a few side effects. The most common adverse reaction to the drug are digestive issues such as cramping, vomiting and diarrhea. Even if your dog experiences some side effects, the benefits of Allopurinal outweigh the negatives and your veterinarian will likely tell you to continue the therapy.
Dietary Changes
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Increased levels of uric acid in the blood, in both humans and dogs, are directly affected by diet. Foods high in purines will cause an accumulation of uric acid. Even if your dog is taking medication, a dietary change is almost always required. You will need to switch your dog to special food that is high in fat and low in protein. Foods that contain eggs, dairy products and fruit are good choices for a diet that is low in proteins.
Other Remedies
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For pain management, some owners have found massaging emu oil onto the lesions have helped lessen discomfort. Also, the addition of apple cider vinegar to your dog's water can help cut down inflammation. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend colchicine, which is a natural plant extract used to cure gout in humans. However, you need to be careful with the amount your dog takes because too much can kill him. The use of charcoal adsorbent material such as Kremezin is also helpful for gout and other metabolic issues. Kremezin works by absorbing uric acid and reducing the likelihood of a gout flare-up.
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