Digestive Enzymes - How Fast Do Results Show?

[raintyger]

The instructions on my digestive enzymes were a bit confusing. It says to use "one scoop (1/2 tsp.)" per every cup of food. The scoop is only 1/4 tsp. though. I just went to my vet and he said I should pay attention to the 1/2 tsp. instructions, meaning that I should give a full scoop of enzymes per meal instead of the 1/2 scoop I was giving.

I gave the increased amount last night. This morning Poppy had a bowel movement that was significantly smaller and less green/more brown than it has been. Is that the result of the enzymes? I'm used to seeing results in about 2 days--for instance, if she tries to spit up a hairball, but doesn't, about 2 days later I'll find a huge hairball in her stool.

 

[chloe16]

On my dog anyway, I use half the suggested dose. The brand I use is Dr Goodpet from walmart. Theres also Enzyme Diane and Mercola Enzymes which are animal based vs Dr Goodpet which are plant based. Was so much cheaper then my vet and works the same. I was paying $140 at my vet for a bottle that lasted me 2 months. $14.99 at walmart for one that lasts me 2 months on half the dose.

 

[ldg]

The instructions on my digestive enzymes were a bit confusing. It says to use "one scoop (1/2 tsp.)" per every cup of food. The scoop is only 1/4 tsp. though. I just went to my vet and he said I should pay attention to the 1/2 tsp. instructions, meaning that I should give a full scoop of enzymes per meal instead of the 1/2 scoop I was giving.

I gave the increased amount last night. This morning Poppy had a bowel movement that was significantly smaller and less green/more brown than it has been. Is that the result of the enzymes? I'm used to seeing results in about 2 days--for instance, if she tries to spit up a hairball, but doesn't, about 2 days later I'll find a huge hairball in her stool.

Yes, they work right away, and it sure seems they're making a difference!

Given she doesn't eat a cup of food at a time, that seems like an excessive amount. :dk: The only concern with too many digestive enzymes is that they digest more than just the food. I know I have to be very careful with their use in Lazlo because of his former issue with stomach ulcers. I don't know to what an extent it's a risk in a kitty WITHOUT ulcers though. :dk: So might put that on the list of questions to ask the vet.

But digestive enzymes should help whoever uses them digest THAT food at THAT meal. Just like switching to raw, those digestive enzymes help kitty use more of the nutrients in them, so yes, the poop will be smaller, and significantly smaller would not be surprising if they're REALLY working. And the change in color sounds really promising.

 

[ldg]

Oh - I know this seems never to be mentioned when it comes to pets and digestive enzymes, but if you can sprinkle them on her food and leave it sit for 5 or 10 minutes before feeding her, it works even better. It's similar to how our saliva starts getting the food ready for our stomachs (if we chew properly. ).

 

[chloe16]

Its recommended to let it sit for 30 minutes. But I dont let it sit at all as mine only has partial issues and just needs a little bit of help

 

[raintyger]

Yes, they work right away, and it sure seems they're making a difference!

Given she doesn't eat a cup of food at a time, that seems like an excessive amount.

The only concern with too many digestive enzymes is that they digest more than just the food. I know I have to be very careful with their use in Lazlo because of his former issue with stomach ulcers. I don't know to what an extent it's a risk in a kitty WITHOUT ulcers though.

So might put that on the list of questions to ask the vet.

But digestive enzymes should help whoever uses them digest THAT food at THAT meal. Just like switching to raw, those digestive enzymes help kitty use more of the nutrients in them, so yes, the poop will be smaller, and significantly smaller would not be surprising if they're REALLY working. And the change in color sounds really promising.

Thanks, Laurie! Even though I had to go to the vet unexpectedly, looks like I got something good out of it.

Thanks also for your concern, but I think it's safe and also there' s some confusion over what I'm giving--

There is a scoop in the jar. The scoop is 1/4 tsp (I've measured it). The directions on the jar say to give one scoop, but it also says that one scoop is 1/2 tsp. The vet thinks that one scoop must treat 1/2 cup of food, not 1 cup.

If I give one scoop per meal it is still double the amount needed, but I've told the vet how much food Poppy gets. Also, I went to the enzyme manufacturer's website. In their FAQ section it says, "There is no risk of 'overdoing' it with enzymes as any enzymes over and above what is needed to digest the food can be used for metabolic functions."

Also, since ulcers are caused by bacteria, I'm guessing that digestive enzymes do harm after an ulcer, but don't cause ulcers. After all, we all have digestive enzymes and really powerful acid in our stomach naturally.

 

[raintyger]

Oh - I know this seems never to be mentioned when it comes to pets and digestive enzymes, but if you can sprinkle them on her food and leave it sit for 5 or 10 minutes before feeding her, it works even better. It's similar to how our saliva starts getting the food ready for our stomachs (if we chew properly.

).

Missed this on the first read.

Actually, my vet did tell me to let it sit for a while before serving so that the food would be predigested. So a few more points in favor of my new vet!

 

[ldg]

Thanks for the info. I really haven't done any research on digestive enzymes, and that's really good to know!

Most importantly, I'm so glad Poppy is doing well on them!