Do you have a question? for Whatsapp click here

Bentonite as a feed additive for diarrhea in dogs and cats

from Sebastian Moll

Diarrhea is one of the most common health problems in dogs and cats. In addition to symptomatic treatment (e.g., fluid intake, bland diet), veterinary practice is increasingly using feed additives to stabilize digestion and support intestinal recovery. One of these additives is bentonite—a clay with special properties. This article explains the basics of bentonite, its mode of action, and the most important aspects of its use in dogs and cats with diarrhea.

1. What is bentonite?

Bentonite is a collective term for various clay minerals, predominantly composed of montmorillonite . Due to its mineralogical structure, bentonite exhibits high ion exchange capacity as well as water-binding and swelling capacity . In particular, its ability to bind various substances (e.g., water, electrolytes, or toxins) makes bentonite attractive for animal nutrition and medicine.

Origin and composition

  • Bentonite is mined in various deposits worldwide.
  • The main component is montmorillonite (60–80%); other minerals such as illite, kaolinite or quartz may also be present.
  • The exact properties vary depending on the mining location (e.g. calcium bentonite, sodium bentonite).

2. Mode of action in diarrhea

2.1 Adsorption of fluid and toxins

One of the most important properties of bentonite is its adsorption capacity . In cases of diarrhea, bentonite can bind excess fluid as well as potentially harmful substances in the intestine (e.g., toxins or bacterial fragments). This binding action:

  • The stool becomes firmer and the stool volume is reduced.
  • Promotes the elimination of harmful microorganisms or toxins, so they have less time to damage the intestinal wall.

2.2 Protection of the intestinal mucosa

Bentonite forms a kind of protective film in the intestine. This can protect the intestinal mucosa from irritation and promote faster regeneration. The relieved intestinal mucosa is then better able to recover and function normally again.

2.3 Stabilization of the intestinal environment

By binding excess fluid and potentially harmful substances, bentonite also indirectly contributes to stabilizing the intestinal flora . A balanced intestinal microbiome is an important prerequisite for healthy digestion and can reduce the likelihood of further diarrhea.

3. Use in animal nutrition

The use of bentonite as a feed additive has been evaluated in the European Union by, among others, the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) . Bentonite is used in animal nutrition for both farm animals and companion animals.

3.1 Approval status

  • According to Regulation (EU) No 1060/2013, bentonite (in certain qualities) is approved in the EU as a binder, flow aid and anti-agglomeration agent .
  • In a 2016 opinion (EFSA Journal 2016;14(6):4488), EFSA confirmed the safety and efficacy of bentonite for all animal species, provided that certain limits for contaminants (e.g. dioxins, heavy metals) are not exceeded.

3.2 Forms and administration

  • Powder : Bentonite is often mixed into the feed in powder form.
  • Granules : Bentonite is sometimes offered as granules, which are easy to dose and distribute well in the wet food.
  • Combination preparations : Bentonite is often combined with probiotics, prebiotics or herbal ingredients (e.g. psyllium husks) to provide more comprehensive support for intestinal health.

4. Dosage and application

The dosage of bentonite varies depending on the product and its intended use. For acute diarrhea in dogs and cats, a short-term, slightly increased dose is often recommended, followed by a subsequent reduction. The following guidelines can serve as a guide (always follow the manufacturer's instructions and veterinary recommendations!):

  • Dogs : Depending on body weight and bentonite content of the product, approximately 1 to 2 g of bentonite per 10 kg of body weight per day.
  • Cats : For cats, the recommended daily amounts are usually between 0.5 and 1 g per animal per day, depending on weight and severity of symptoms.

It is usually given in two portions (morning and evening) and mixed with the feed. When using bentonite, care should always be taken to ensure adequate fluid intake.

5. Safety and possible side effects

In general, bentonite is considered very safe in animal feed. However, there are a few points to consider:

  1. Mineral metabolism : Bentonite can bind not only undesirable substances but also beneficial minerals and vitamins . Therefore, with long-term use and high dosages, there is a certain risk of deficiencies (e.g., of vitamins or trace elements). Monitoring nutritional status is advisable during long-term use.
  2. Contaminants : Poor-quality bentonite may be contaminated with heavy metals or dioxins. Therefore, only food- or feed-grade bentonites that are strictly controlled should be used.
  3. Drug Interactions : Like other absorbent substances, bentonite can interfere with the absorption of oral medications . Therefore, it is often recommended to stagger the administration of bentonite (at least 2 hours) if the animal is to receive other medications.
  4. Risk of constipation : Insufficient fluid intake or very high doses can lead to constipation . In this case, ensure adequate drinking water.

6. Conclusion

Bentonite is an effective and generally well-tolerated feed additive for supporting diarrhea in dogs and cats. Its ability to bind fluids and toxins, as well as to protect the intestinal mucosa, can positively influence the healing process. It is important to use the appropriate quality and dosage of bentonite, as well as to follow veterinary recommendations. Especially in cases of chronic diarrhea or diarrhea of ​​unknown cause, a veterinary diagnosis should always be performed to determine the optimal treatment regimen.

Sources

  1. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). (2016). Safety and efficacy of bentonite as a feed additive for all species (EFSA-Q-2014-00784) . EFSA Journal 14(6):4488. https ://doi .org /10.2903 /j .efsa .2016.4488
  2. Commission Regulation (EU) No 1060/2013 of 29 October 2013 concerning the authorisation of bentonite (including montmorillonite) as a feed additive.
  3. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). (2012). Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of bentonite as a technological additive for all species . EFSA Journal 10(7):2787.
  4. Di Girolamo, N. et al. (2016). Clinical evaluation of the effect of a clay-based supplement in cats with acute diarrhea . Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 18(2), 132-136.
  5. Flournoy, W.S. (2017). Management of acute diarrhea in dogs and cats . Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 47(2), 375-386.
  6. Stormer, M. et al. (2012). Effects of calcium montmorillonite clay and aflatoxin B1 on performance and immunological parameters of dogs . Toxins, 4(8), 646–658. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins4080646​​​​

Note: This article is intended to provide professional information and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. If you suspect serious illness or persistent diarrhea, you should always consult a veterinarian. This article does not constitute a product recommendation and is intended only to provide an overview of the raw material.

Back to News