What Not to Feed Dogs with Colitis

Colitis in dogs refers to inflammation of the colon, often causing diarrhoea, discomfort, and an urgent need to go outside. It can be triggered by various things, including stress, infections, allergies, or dietary intolerances. When a dog has colitis, their digestive system becomes especially sensitive, and what they eat plays a major role in managing their symptoms. Knowing which foods to avoid can make a big difference in helping them feel better and avoid flare-ups.

Avoid Fatty and Greasy Foods

Foods that are high in fat can be particularly harsh on a dog with colitis. Fatty cuts of meat, processed foods, or table scraps loaded with grease can irritate the digestive tract and trigger diarrhoea. Even healthy dogs can struggle with rich foods, but those with colitis are especially vulnerable. Keeping their diet low in fat and easy to digest is crucial.

Say No to Dairy Products

Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and dairy can cause bloating, gas, or loose stools. For dogs with colitis, even a small amount of milk, cheese, or yoghurt can worsen inflammation and disrupt digestion. It’s best to avoid dairy altogether, even if they’ve handled it well in the past, as their gut may be more reactive during a flare-up.

Steer Clear of High-Fibre or Raw Vegetables

While fibre is often helpful in a normal diet, certain high-fibre foods can aggravate colitis. Raw vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or cabbage can be too rough on an inflamed digestive system. Insoluble fibre can make symptoms worse by stimulating the colon when rest and gentleness are what’s really needed.

Cooked, easily digestible vegetables may be better tolerated, but always introduce any changes slowly and under the guidance of a vet.

Watch Out for Grains and Gluten

Some dogs with colitis may have sensitivities to grains such as wheat, corn, or soy. These ingredients are common in many commercial dog foods but can be inflammatory for sensitive stomachs. If colitis is linked to a food allergy or intolerance, switching to a grain-free or limited-ingredient diet might be part of the solution, as long as it’s properly balanced and vet-approved.

No Bones or Chewy Treats

Hard chews, bones, or treats with tough textures can be difficult to digest and may irritate the gut. Even if a bone seems like a harmless treat, it could worsen symptoms or even lead to further complications. When managing colitis, the goal is to keep everything soft, mild, and gentle on the system.

Summary

When a dog has colitis, their digestive system needs extra care and attention. Fatty foods, dairy, raw vegetables, grains, and hard treats can all aggravate the condition and should be avoided. A soft, bland, and easy-to-digest diet, recommended by a vet, offers the best support for recovery. By knowing what not to feed and sticking to a simple routine, you can help your dog feel better and reduce the risk of future flare-ups.