Do you keep turmeric in your supplement cabinet? This is a very common supplement and spice that people have at home. Turmeric is sometimes used in cooking, but it can also be used to help a wide range of health issues!
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While turmeric is good for humans, is it safe for dogs? What happens if your dog eats turmeric?
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a spice that comes from a plant of the same name. It’s commonly used in Asian cooking, such as in curry dishes. The taste is said to be something a little bitter/warm. The root of the plant is also used in medicine.
The root of the turmeric plant contains a special substance called curcumin. This yellow substance is often used to add color to cosmetics and foods. However, it’s also used to treat pain and inflammation, as well as hay fever, depression, high cholesterol, liver disease, and even itching.
Curcumin reduces swelling, inflammation, and pain. It’s also thought this substance may work to prevent and treat certain types of cancer.
But is turmeric safe for dogs?
Turmeric and Dogs
Turmeric is often used as an alternative treatment for dogs! It’s used to treat some of the same conditions in dogs as in humans. In dogs, the chemical curcumin can help reduce pain, swelling, inflammation, and more. This means it’s excellent for dogs that have arthritis, skin & environmental allergies, and more.
However, turmeric can cause side effects in some dogs, including:
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Gall bladder issues (in dogs with gall bladder disease)
- Curcumin can act as an anticoagulant (not good for dogs with bleeding disorders)
- Turmeric can also cause some problems in dogs with liver disease
- Turmeric can also cause kidney stones worse
- Turmeric can also interact with some medications
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Ask a Vet Live NowMy Dog Ate a Large Amount of Turmeric
If your dog has eaten a large amount of turmeric, then he may develop the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
If these symptoms last longer than 12 hours, then it’s a good idea to call the vet. It’s also time to call the vet if your fur baby develops other symptoms in addition to the ones listed above. Some dogs can be allergic to turmeric and may show signs of an allergic reaction to the spice.
The prognosis is excellent for dogs who eat too much turmeric. A trip to the vet should alleviate their symptoms and get them feeling better pretty fast.
If you’re interested in adding turmeric to your dog’s diet, be sure to consult with the vet first. The vet can tell you whether or not turmeric is safe for your dog or if it could interact with your dog’s medications. They will also know the right amount of turmeric that’s best for your dog.
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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