Slippery Elm Uses for Pets

Slippery elm is an herbal remedy used most frequently in dogs and cats experiencing gastrointestinal difficulties and as an external healing agent for wounds and skin abrasions. It is most commonly available in powdered form, either loose or in capsules, and derives its name from the viscous, or slippery, gel it forms when it comes in contact with water. Generally safe for use in dogs and cats, there are a few contraindications that the pet parent should be aware of.

What Is Slippery Elm

Slippery elm is an herbal product of the soft and stringy inner bark of the slippery, or red, elm tree, which is native to the eastern United States and Canada. The term "slippery" refers to the viscous gel formed when powdered slippery elm bark comes into contact with water. Most commonly distributed as either a loose or encapsulated powder, Slippery elm is used as an internal lubricant in cats and dogs suffering from gastrointestinal disease. Its naturally-occurring tannins act as an anti-inflammatory in the digestive tract; the viscous gel lubricates the digestive tract and assists with waste elimination. Slippery elm has external uses as well, having proven effective in treating wounds and skin abrasions.

Internal Uses of Slippery Elm

The natural lubricant in slippery elm makes it an ideal remedy for constipation, especially in cats, and may also act as a preventative. It coats and quiets the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal system and works especially well on colitis and inflammatory bowel disease. High in fiber, slippery elm works to normalize digestive functions, relieving nausea and vomiting and both constipation and diarrhea.
It can also work to soothe inflamed upper respiratory passages in dogs and cats that exhibit bronchial symptoms such as excessive coughing. Slippery elm's anti-inflammatory properties assist in the treatment of arthritis and cystitis of the bladder.

External Uses of Slippery Elm

You can mix slippery elm powder with a small amount of water to form a poultice for soothing insect bites, skin abrasions, ulcerations, and hot spots, forming a natural form of adhesive bandage that can also stop bleeding. However, take care that your dog or cat does not lick the slippery elm off the wound site.

Safety

Slippery elm is generally safe for use in dogs and cats, so long as you avoid using the outer bark of the tree. The outer bark can irritate urinary and digestive tracts and trigger abortions in pregnant animals. As slippery elm is high in magnesium and ash, avoid giving slippery elm internally to animals with infections causing elevated urinary pH levels. The magnesium and ash may stimulate the formation of struvite crystals.
Slippery elm may have a minor negative effect on the absorption of other medications, so it is best to administer Slippery elm at a separate time.

General Cautions

This herb is generally available without a prescription, but your veterinarian may be able to recommend a specific, quality brand. Please be sure to consult with your veterinarian before administering medications of any kind to your pet.