There’s nothing cuter than tummies. And, inside those tummies, the gut microbiome is the center of your dog or cat’s good or poor health. Balancing it could produce life-changing benefits and avoid dis-ease. What is the key to improving gut health in your dog or cat? Nutrition. Here are 2 of the top probiotics for the gut…
Camel’s milk and goat’s milk. But, which should you choose?
Let’s unpack the benefits of one milk that is lesser known and another, also with benefits, some of which you may not be aware of.
Camel’s Milk for Dogs
Camel’s milk is also easier to digest than cow’s milk, which can be a benefit for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The proteins in camel’s milk are smaller and more easily broken down, making it less likely to cause digestive issues.
Some key benefits of camel’s milk are:
Camel’s milk has 10x the lactoferrin of cow’s milk. Lactoferrin is a protein that is associated with good gut health & prevention against microbial infection. Rich in calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, vitamin C and B vitamins. Camel’s milk contains 3x the calcium of cow’s milk, 3x the vitamin C, and 10x the iron. Camel’s milk contains around half the saturated fat found in cow’s milk. Bactrian camel milk has a higher fat content than dromedary. (Bactrian camels = two humps, from Central Asia).
Dromedary camel milk is the lowest in saturated fat. (Dromedary camels = one hump, from the Middle East). Contains 40% less lactose than cow’s milk. Camel’s milk lacks the A1 casein protein & beta-lactoglubulin associated with allergic reactions. A1 casein & beta-lactoglobulin are both present in cow’s & sheep milk, and small amounts are found in goat’s milk. Camel milk contains A2 beta-casein. Goat, sheep, buffalo, yak & donkey milk all contain either mostly or completely A2 as well.– Courtesy of Canine Ascension, Canid Nutritionist
Various products have been created from camel’s milk, including milk powder, cheese, chocolate, ice cream, baby food and beauty products. Camel milk cream has proven beneficial in treating skin rashes in cats and dogs.
Raw Goat’s Milk for Dogs
Like camel’s milk, raw goat’s milk is easier to digest than cow’s milk, making it a good choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. It also contains less lactose than cow’s milk, which can be a benefit for dogs who are lactose intolerant.
A dog’s gastrointestinal tract has different pH levels at each segment. Maintaining the ideal pH of the gastrointestinal tract is essential for optimal digestion and absorption of food.
Dogs are highly prone to developing hyperacidity (a sudden decrease in the stomach’s pH) which can lead to vomiting and indigestion. Goat’s milk contains high amounts of potassium which helps control and neutralize the acidity of the stomach. Providing goat’s milk to dogs can help regulate their stomach pH and prevent hyperacidity from developing.
>> Rich in Nutrients: Goat’s milk is rich in several nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B2, and potassium.
>> Boost Immunity: Raw goat’s milk contains immunoglobulins and antibodies that can help boost the immune system and protect against infections.
>> Anti-inflammatory: Raw goat’s milk contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
>> May Improve Skin Health: The vitamins and minerals in goat’s milk may help improve skin health, and some people report that consuming raw goat’s milk can help reduce skin irritation and other skin conditions.
– Courtesy of The Balanced Canine Sydney
Which is Better for Dogs’ Gut Health?
Both camel’s milk and raw goat’s milk can be beneficial for dogs’ and cats’ gut health. They are both rich in nutrients and contain probiotics and enzymes that can help improve digestion and boost the immune system. However, the choice between the two will depend on your dog or cat’s specific needs and preferences.
Some may prefer the taste of camel’s milk over raw goat’s milk or vice-versa.
It is also important to note that raw goat’s milk can be easier to find and purchase than camel’s milk, depending on your location, and raw camel’s milk is many times more expensive. Some are using powdered camel’s milk, which may or may not have live cultures still in them, depending on the process being used to dry it. It is always better to consume as close to the whole food state of a product as possible for the most beneficial nutrient profile.
Conclusion
When it comes to milk options for dogs and cats, camel’s milk and raw goat’s milk are both excellent choices, because they are both rich in probiotics, vitamins, and nutrients and can help improve gut health. Raw goat’s milk is much easier to source and is much less expensive at this point. Any time you’re adding a new food to your dog or cat’s diet, go slowly, test with very little and make sure the source of that food is a trusted, reliable one. Do your homework.
Note from The Pet Health Expert: I use raw goat’s milk with my dogs and cat. I’ve tried several brands over the years and am now using Raw Paws. I like it; the sourcing is good, quality is good and my dogs love it.
To their best health ever!
More posts on diet and good health.
References:
Animal Wellness Dec./Jan. 2012; Healing From The Desert
FirstVet.com
The Balanced Canine Sydney
Canine Ascension
