Milly Gaines
The BRAT diet for dogs is a short-term, bland diet that can be used to help dogs with digestive issues. BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, though dogs won't be fed these exact foods. Instead, the BRAT diet for dogs includes easily digestible, low-fibre, and low-fat foods, such as boiled chicken or hamburger with rice. Dogs with acute vomiting or diarrhea can benefit from a BRAT diet after a period of fasting, but it's important to consult a veterinarian for advice first, especially for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with other health issues.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To help dogs with vomiting or diarrhea, or who aren't eating well |
| Food type | Low-fiber, low-fat, easily digestible foods |
| Ingredients | Bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, boiled chicken or boiled hamburger |
| Feeding method | Small amounts, 3-4 meals throughout the day |
| Duration | 3-5 days, or until the dog feels better |
| Precautions | Consult a veterinarian for puppies under 3 months old, senior dogs, or those with health problems |
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What You'll Learn
BRAT diet ingredients
The BRAT diet for dogs is a short-term remedy for an upset stomach. It consists of easily digestible, low-fibre, and low-fat foods. The ingredients are similar to those used in the human BRAT diet, which typically includes bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. While the BRAT diet for dogs does not include the exact same ingredients, it is based on the same concept of offering bland, tummy-soothing foods.
The BRAT diet for dogs typically includes boiled chicken or boiled ground beef, paired with rice. This combination provides both protein and carbohydrates, essential for a dog's diet. Boiling the meat helps to reduce fat content, making it easier for a dog's stomach to process.
If your dog is a picky eater and does not enjoy the taste of boiled chicken or beef, there are alternatives. Meat-based baby food, as long as it does not contain onion or garlic, is a good option. The canned variety can be warmed up and served with a little warm broth to make it more appetising.
It is important to note that the BRAT diet is not nutritionally complete for long-term feeding. It is a temporary solution to help soothe your dog's stomach and get their digestive system back on track. After a few days on the BRAT diet, you can gradually reintroduce your dog's regular food, mixing it with the bland diet over a few days.
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Fasting before BRAT
The BRAT diet, consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is a well-known diet for humans that can be adapted for dogs. It is a bland diet, which uses low-fibre, low-fat foods that are easily digestible and gentle on upset stomachs.
It is important to note that fasting is not always recommended for dogs, and it is best to consult a veterinarian before putting your dog on a fast. In the past, it was common practice for vets to recommend a fast for dogs with gastrointestinal (GI) upset, but it is now understood that the gut needs nutrients to recover. Withholding food can cause more harm and delay recovery. However, there are still instances where a veterinarian may advise a fast, such as before a procedure or in cases of profuse vomiting. If you are unsure, always seek advice from your vet.
If your dog has simply eaten something that has upset their stomach, a fast-plus-bland-diet approach can be beneficial. In such cases, a 12- to 24-hour fast may be appropriate, but it is important to never withhold water. Always ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water during the fast. After the fast, introduce small amounts of bland food to test if your dog is ready to eat and can keep the food down. You can gradually increase the amount and frequency of meals over time.
The length of the fast will depend on your dog's individual needs, and it is crucial to monitor their condition closely. If, at any point, your dog experiences more diarrhoea, vomiting, or a persistent unwell condition, contact your veterinarian immediately. It is also important to note that fasting may not be suitable for very young puppies (under 3 months old), senior dogs, or those with known health problems. In such cases, it is essential to consult your veterinarian for specific advice.
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Reintroducing regular food
The BRAT diet is a well-known approach for humans experiencing stomach issues, and it can also be used for dogs. It involves feeding your dog easily digestible, bland foods that are low in fiber and fat. This includes foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. The goal is to provide some nutrition while minimising irritation to your dog's digestive tract.
When reintroducing regular food, it's important to do so gradually. Start by adding clear liquids to your dog's diet, such as water, apple juice, or chicken broth. If your dog tolerates these liquids, you can introduce bland, soft foods. This might include boiled chicken and rice, or even a pre-made prescription diet, such as canned food specifically formulated for pets with gastric upset.
Over a few days, you can start to mix your dog's regular food into the bland diet. Gradually increase the proportion of regular food while decreasing the amount of bland food. This process should be slow and monitored, ensuring your dog doesn't experience any negative reactions.
It's important to note that the BRAT diet is not nutritionally complete, so it should only be used temporarily until your dog's stomach issues subside. Additionally, while the BRAT diet is safe for puppies and adult dogs, it's always best to consult your veterinarian for tailored advice, especially if your dog has specific health concerns or if their condition doesn't improve.
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Prescription diets
The BRAT diet is a well-known treatment for humans suffering from an upset stomach, and it can also be applied to dogs. The diet consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, easily digestible foods that are low in fibre and fat. While the BRAT diet for dogs does not contain the same ingredients, it follows the same concept. Prescription diets are available for dogs with specific conditions, and these can be recommended by a veterinarian.
For dogs experiencing vomiting or diarrhoea, a prescription diet can be highly beneficial. In these cases, veterinarians often recommend a bland diet that is easy to digest and low in fat. This can include boiled chicken or ground beef with rice, ensuring both protein and carbohydrate intake. Prescription diets such as Hill's® Prescription Diet i/d or Royal Canin® Veterinary Diet Adult Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food are specifically formulated for dogs with gastrointestinal issues.
Additionally, prescription diets can be tailored to address other health concerns. For dogs with inflammatory bowel disease and food allergies, hypoallergenic diets are often prescribed. On the other hand, for dogs with chronic pancreatitis, a very low-fat diet may be recommended. Dogs with chronic kidney disease may require a diet with moderate amounts of high-quality protein, such as Hill's® Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care or Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function. These diets are designed to support kidney function and overall renal health.
It is important to note that the duration of the prescription diet may vary depending on the dog's condition and response to the treatment. Typically, it is recommended to continue the bland diet until the dog feels better, which usually takes around 3 to 5 days. During this time, it is crucial to monitor the dog's stool and vomiting to ensure they are improving. Once the dog's digestive system has stabilised, their regular food can be gradually reintroduced.
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Wet food vs. dry food
The BRAT diet for dogs is a bland diet that uses low-fibre, low-fat foods that are easily digestible and won't upset a dog's stomach. It is recommended for dogs that have been suffering from vomiting or diarrhoea or are not eating well. The diet typically includes foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
Now, when it comes to choosing between wet and dry food for dogs, there are several factors to consider. Both types of food have their own advantages and can be chosen based on a dog's overall health, age, and behavioural needs. Here is a detailed comparison of the two:
Wet Dog Food
Wet dog food, also known as canned dog food, has a higher water content, making it a valuable source of hydration for dogs, especially in dry and hot climates or if your dog doesn't drink enough water. It is also beneficial for dogs that have difficulty chewing due to missing teeth, misaligned jaws, or other dental issues. Wet food has a richer scent and flavour, which can be appealing to older dogs with a reduced sense of smell. The higher moisture content can also help dogs feel full, aiding in weight management for those with larger appetites.
Dry Dog Food
Dry dog food, or kibble, is generally more convenient and economical. It can be left out for dogs to eat at their own pace without the risk of spoilage, and it is usually more cost-effective to buy in bulk. Dry food can also be beneficial for dental health, as it is formulated to reduce plaque, stain, and tartar buildup by scraping away these buildups on a dog's teeth. Additionally, dry food is easier to use in food puzzle toys, providing mental stimulation and helping to control food intake for dogs that eat too eagerly.
Combining Wet and Dry Food
Some dog owners choose to offer a combination of wet and dry food, either by mixing them together or by providing dry food in the morning and wet food in the evening. This approach can provide the benefits of both types of food and add variety to the dog's diet. However, it is important to monitor the dog's caloric intake when mixing wet and dry food, especially if they are on a weight management plan. Additionally, it is recommended to stick to a single brand, especially if the dog is on a therapeutic food diet, to ensure a consistent balance of nutrients.
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Frequently asked questions
BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. It is a diet of low-fibre, low-fat foods that are easily digestible and won't upset your dog's stomach further.
If your dog has been vomiting or has diarrhoea, it is recommended to put them on the BRAT diet.
You should continue to feed your dog the BRAT diet until they are fully recovered, usually about 3-5 days. Once the vomiting and/or diarrhoea have stopped and their stools are normal, you can start to mix their regular food into their diet.
You can feed your dog boiled chicken or ground beef with rice, or meat-based baby food without onion or garlic. You can also try feeding them wet food, which is easier to digest than kibble.
If your dog is still unwell, you should contact your veterinarian for advice.
