The Importance of Colostrum for Puppies and Kittens

Last updated: August 2, 2016

Colostrum is the fluid manufactured by the body prior to the production of mother's milk during the first 24 to 48 hours after birth. Research has shown that colostrum has powerful life-supporting immune and growth factors that ensure the health and vitality of the newborn puppy or kitten. It brings the body into a natural state of equilibrium, vital to health and well being.

While supporting healthy immune function, colostrum also enables the animals to resist the harmful effects of pollutants, contaminants and allergens. In addition, the growth factors in colostrum enhance the ability of a healthy organism to burn fat, build lean muscle mass and rejuvenate skin and cellular structure.

Colostrum is not species specific which means it can be used in all mammals. However, colostrum from cows does not have the same antigens to disease that dog colostrum contains, but it does have some of the common proteins that all mammals have in colostrum. Colostrum is a thick, nutrient-dense liquid rich in immunological active compounds, including immunoglobulins. The transfer of immunoglobulins in particular confers passive immunity until the newborn's immune system begins to function independently. Animals or people who are allergic to milk can still use colostrum because it does not contain milk proteins.

The Benefits of Colostrum for Newborn Puppies and Kittens

Colostrum is highly beneficial because it provides the body with numerous immune factors. According to medical research, the presence of a wide spectrum of immunoglobulins, antibiotics, immune and growth factors found in colostrum, offers tremendous therapeutic potential for overall health and wellness, Studies show that colostrum has the unique ability to support normal cell growth and tissue repair, providing for system-wide rejuvenation. Aging and illness occur with the gradual loss of immune and growth factors in the body after maturity. The onset of almost all infections and degenerative diseases, are preceded or accompanied by lowered immune system function. Colostrum contains important immune factors, immunoglobulin and growth factors that work to restore optimal immune function while increasing vital substances, such as vitamins, minerals and proteins, and better efficiency of tissue repair.

If an animal is orphaned and mom's milk isn't an option, colostrum substitutes provide the newborn's gut with proteins that can help fight viruses or bacteria.

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The materials, information and answers provided through this website are not intended to replace the medical advice or services of your personal veterinarian or other pet health care professional. Consult your own veterinarian for answers to specific medical questions, including diagnosis, treatment, therapy or medical attention.