Lymphoma & Nutrition in Dogs

While your dog is battling lymphoma, his nutritional needs are an important part of keeping up a good quality of life. Minor changes in your pet's diet can increase vitamins, minerals and proteins, which can help in the treatment process.

Vitamins and Minerals

Various vitamins and minerals are recommended by veterinarians to help in the treatment of lymphoma in dogs. These include vitamins A, C, E and minerals such as selenium and iron.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates have been shown to feed cancerous tumors. Limiting your dog's carbohydrate intake can help slow the growth of the lymphoma tumors in your dog.

Proteins

Providing protein and amino acids to replace those that are taken by the cancer should be part of the diet plan for your dog during treatment. Two important amino acids are arginine, which enhances the immune system, and glutamine, which aids in maintenance of the gastrointestinal tract.

Omega-3

Omega-3 has been shown to slow the growth of tumors in dogs with lymphoma as well as having anti-inflammatory properties. Omega 3 fatty acids are not normally found in dry dog food, so you will need to adjust your dog's diet to account for this.

Safflower Oil

The linoleic acid found in this oil has been shown to be beneficial to the fight of lymphoma. One consideration is that too much safflower oil can, which is an omega-6 fatty acid, may also cause tumors to grow.

References

• Caninecancer.com
• Vetinfo.com