Dogs diagnosed with bladder cancer generally have a 50 percent chance of survival. Dogs must undergo chemotherapy, surgery or radiation to help improve the quality of life. Diet also can contribute to quality of life. Certain foods, supplements and herbs can be incorporated to help a canine with bladder cancer live more comfortably.
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Low Carbohydrate/High Fat Diet
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Dogs with bladder cancer must be fed a low carbohydrate diet with moderate amounts of protein and high amounts of unsaturated fats. The reason for this is cancer cells thrive on carbs and sugars but not certain fats for a source of energy. Some high quality proteins and amino acids are OK for dogs to eat since tests have shown they reduce toxicity in the body. An example is glutamine, which helps the dog maintain a healthy GI tract. The fatty acids like Omega 3s found in fish oil or flaxseed oil are essential to its diet. Omega 6 fatty acids like the ones in borage or primrose oil should be avoided because they increase cancer growth.
Natural Supplements
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Supplements that aid in digestion are necessary to add to a cancer stricken dog's diet. The GI tract must be able to absorb as many nutrients from food as possible to maintain health. Prozyme powder is an excellent digestive enzyme that can be sprinkled over the dog's food. It replenishes digestive enzymes that are destroyed during dry and canned food processing. This allows for better absorption of nutrients. Antioxidants also can be added to slow down growth and spreading of the cancer. Selenium, green tea and vitamins A and C also are great supplements for a dog with bladder cancer.
Herbs
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Herbs are an excellent addition to a dog's diet when coupled with conventional medicine. Herbs help boost the immune system and support waste-removing organs like the liver and kidneys. Many herbs that are dried can be spread over the dog's food and consumed multiple times daily. Burdock root is one of the best for waste and toxin removal from the body. It can also be used for a long period of time without health repercussions. Milk thistle supports many internal organs, particularly the liver after chemotherapy. Dandelion is a great diuretic that removes waste via kidneys and urinary tract. It also can aid in smoother digestion
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