Inspired from Dr. Al Plechner, DVM books

Living clay, particularly calcium Montmorillonite clay, is a natural substance that has been used for centuries in various cultures for its healing properties. More recently, it has gained popularity as a supplement for pets, offering a range of health benefits. This article explores the science behind living clay, its different types, and how it can contribute to your pet’s health, from treating renal disease to promoting better skin and overall well-being.

The Science Behind Clay: Montmorillonite vs. Bentonite

One common point of confusion when discussing healing clays is the relationship between montmorillonite and bentonite. While they are closely related, they are not exactly the same thing.

•   Montmorillonite is the primary mineral found in many healing clays and is responsible for the clay’s detoxifying properties. It has a strong negative ionic charge, making it highly effective at adsorbing and absorbing toxins.
•   Bentonite refers to a broader category of clay that contains montmorillonite as its main component. There are two types of bentonite clay: calcium bentonite and sodium bentonite, with calcium bentonite being preferred for health and detoxification purposes.

In essence, when we talk about bentonite clay in the context of health, we are often referring to a form of clay that contains montmorillonite, specifically calcium bentonite. The unique properties of montmorillonite within bentonite make it particularly effective for detoxifying and promoting overall health in pets and humans alike.

Types of Clay

Not all clay is created equal. Clays vary in their mineral content, shapes, and sizes, which in turn affect their uses and effectiveness. For pet owners looking to supplement their animal’s health, it’s essential to choose the right type of clay. Here’s what to consider:

•   Mineral composition: Bentonite clay, for example, may have varying amounts of calcium or sodium. Calcium bentonite is the preferred choice for health purposes due to the presence of montmorillonite.
•   Purity: Some clay deposits are contaminated with toxins, which is why high-quality clay that has been adequately processed is vital.
•   Treatment: Clays that have been sun-dried and naturally processed retain more of their beneficial properties than those treated with chemicals or irradiation.

How Clay Works

One of the reasons clay is so effective as a health supplement is due to its negative ionic charge. Calcium Montmorillonite clay contains one of the strongest negative charges among edible clays. This charge allows it to attract and bind to positively charged particles, such as toxins, pollutants, and harmful bacteria. This process of attraction is key to clay’s detoxifying properties.

As the clay moves through the body, it absorbs these positively charged particles, removing them from the body via the digestive system. This process is known as adsorption, where substances stick to the surface of the clay particles. Another mechanism, absorption, allows the clay to act like a sponge, drawing toxins and impurities into its structure. This dual action makes calcium bentonite clay an excellent detoxifier.

Trace Minerals and Health

The body requires trace minerals to function properly. Unfortunately, modern diets often lack these essential nutrients due to the depletion of minerals in agricultural soils. Pets, like humans, can suffer from a deficiency of these micronutrients, which may lead to various health problems, including poor bone health and weakened immune function.

Calcium Montmorillonite clay contains a wealth of trace minerals in a chelated state, meaning they are easily absorbed by the body when needed. These minerals not only contribute to overall health but also help other nutrients pass through cell membranes more efficiently, allowing cells to produce more energy and oxygen, both of which are crucial for healing and disease prevention.

Clay for Pets: Health Benefits

While clay has been widely used for human health, its applications for pets are equally beneficial. From renal disease treatment to promoting healthier skin and coats, clay offers a natural and safe alternative to many traditional treatments.

1. Treating Renal Disease

Renal disease, which affects the kidneys, is a serious condition that impacts many pets, particularly older cats and dogs. There are two types of kidney disease:

•   Acute kidney failure: This sudden onset condition is often caused by the ingestion of toxins or exposure to severe infections, such as Leptospirosis.
•   Chronic kidney failure: This more gradual form of kidney disease is caused by prolonged exposure to toxins, poor diet, and infections. Over time, it leads to the loss of kidney function.

Conventional treatments for kidney disease typically involve administering fluids to flush out toxins and prescribing a low-protein diet to reduce kidney strain. However, calcium Montmorillonite clay can complement these treatments by helping detoxify the body, neutralizing harmful toxins, and supporting the kidneys’ ability to process waste. Because clay contains chelated calcium, it can also help manage bone loss, a common side effect of kidney disease, by balancing calcium and phosphorus levels in the body.

2. Promoting Skin Health and Reducing Allergies

Skin problems in pets, such as itching, redness, and inflammation, are often caused by allergies or deficiencies in essential nutrients. Calcium bentonite clay can help alleviate these conditions by acting as both an internal and external detoxifier. When ingested, clay helps to remove toxins from the body that may be contributing to allergic reactions. When applied externally as a poultice, it can soothe irritated skin and promote healing.

For pets suffering from chronic skin issues, adding clay to their diet or using it in topical treatments may lead to significant improvements.

3. Bone Health and Micronutrient Absorption

One of the lesser-known benefits of calcium Montmorillonite clay is its ability to support bone health. Scientific studies have shown that this type of clay can help prevent osteoporosis in humans, and similar results have been observed in animals. The chelated calcium in the clay allows the body to absorb only the amount of calcium it needs, preventing over-supplementation, which can lead to other health problems.

In addition to supporting bone density, calcium Montmorillonite clay enhances the absorption of other essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, helping your pet maintain overall good health.

Detoxification and Radiation Protection

Calcium bentonite clay’s ability to neutralize toxins extends to radiation exposure as well. This property was demonstrated during the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, where bentonite clay was used to contain radiation. The same principles apply to pets, particularly those exposed to environmental toxins or harmful chemicals. Clay can be added to a pet’s diet to help detoxify their body by binding to these harmful substances and safely eliminating them.

Suggested Clay Protocol for Pets

For pet owners considering the use of calcium Montmorillonite clay, it’s essential to follow a protocol tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Here are general guidelines for internal use:

Dosage Based on Weight:

•   Small dogs (up to 20 lbs):
•   Start with 1/4 teaspoon of clay mixed into food or water, once per day.
•   Medium dogs (20-50 lbs):
•   Begin with 1/2 teaspoon mixed into food or water, once per day.
•   Large dogs (50-80 lbs):
•   Start with 1 teaspoon mixed into food or water, once per day.
•   Extra-large dogs (over 80 lbs):
•   Begin with 1 to 1.5 teaspoons mixed into food or water, once per day.

Administration Tips:

•   Hydration: Make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water, as clay can cause dehydration if the dog doesn’t drink enough fluids.
•   Mixing: The clay can be mixed into wet food or dissolved in water. If using in dry food, consider moistening the food to help the clay adhere better.
•   Gradual Introduction: Start with half the recommended dosage for the first week to allow your dog’s system to adjust, then increase to the full dosage.
•   Consistency: For best results, administer daily for a prolonged period, especially when using clay for detoxification or treating chronic conditions.

External Use:

•   Clay Paste: For skin issues, mix the clay with water until it forms a paste. Apply directly to the affected area and let it dry. Wash off gently after a few hours.
•   Frequency: Apply externally once or twice daily, depending on the severity of the skin condition.

Summary: The Power of Calcium Montmorillonite Clay

Calcium Montmorillonite clay is a versatile, natural remedy that offers a wide range of benefits for pets. From supporting kidney health and improving nutrient absorption to detoxifying the body and promoting healthier skin and bones, clay can be a valuable addition to your pet’s health regimen. Whether used internally or externally, calcium bentonite clay helps pets combat environmental toxins, absorb vital nutrients, and maintain overall well-being.

While traditional treatments and medications have their place, calcium Montmorillonite clay provides a natural, complementary approach to enhancing your pet’s health. Whether you’re dealing with a specific condition or simply looking to boost your pet’s overall vitality, living clay offers a safe and effective solution. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure you’re using the right type and dosage for your pet’s needs, and you’ll soon see the difference this powerful natural supplement can make.

Promoting Better Health for Horses with Clay

In addition to smaller pets like cats and dogs, calcium Montmorillonite clay is highly beneficial for larger animals such as horses. The same detoxifying and nutrient-absorbing properties that make clay useful for dogs and cats also apply to equine health. Given the size and digestive complexity of horses, clay can be particularly effective in promoting gut health, enhancing nutrient absorption, and helping with detoxification.

Supporting Digestive Health in Horses

Horses are prone to digestive issues, including ulcers, colic, and other forms of gastrointestinal discomfort. These conditions often result from diet, stress, or environmental toxins. Calcium bentonite clay can help alleviate these problems by soothing the digestive tract and binding with toxins and harmful substances that may cause digestive upset. The clay works by acting as a sponge, drawing in toxins, and allowing the horse to safely expel them from its system.

In particular, clay is effective in managing conditions like colic, as it aids in calming inflammation within the digestive system. By incorporating clay into a horse’s diet, owners can help prevent digestive issues and improve overall gut health.

Enhancing Nutrient Absorption

For working or competitive horses, proper nutrient absorption is crucial. Horses require a balanced intake of vitamins and minerals to maintain peak performance and ensure recovery after exertion. Calcium Montmorillonite clay enhances the bioavailability of nutrients, ensuring that the horse’s body absorbs essential vitamins and minerals more effectively. This not only improves general health but also aids in recovery, stamina, and performance.

Mineral Supplements for Skin Problems in Pets

Pets commonly experience skin issues, which can be caused by environmental factors, allergens, or nutritional deficiencies. Calcium Montmorillonite clay can play a crucial role in improving skin health, both externally and internally, due to its detoxifying and mineral-rich properties.

External Application for Skin Health

When applied externally as a poultice or paste, calcium bentonite clay helps soothe and heal irritated skin. It draws out toxins, reduces inflammation, and promotes faster healing. Pets suffering from conditions like dermatitis, rashes, or insect bites often experience relief after the topical application of clay. By pulling out impurities from the skin, clay helps to reduce itching and discomfort.

Internal Support for Skin and Coat

Ingesting clay also improves skin health from the inside out. Many pets suffer from chronic skin conditions that are tied to nutrient deficiencies or toxin buildup. By incorporating calcium Montmorillonite clay into their diet, toxins are removed from the body, and essential minerals are delivered, leading to healthier skin and a shinier coat. Long-term use of clay can help mitigate allergy symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and enhance overall skin resilience.

How Calcium Montmorillonite Clay Helps Birds

Just like dogs, cats, and horses, birds can also benefit from the powerful properties of calcium Montmorillonite clay. Birds, especially parrots and other exotic species, are particularly susceptible to environmental toxins and poor nutrition. This clay provides a natural and effective solution to support their health.

Supporting Bone Health and Feather Growth

Birds require proper calcium levels to maintain strong bones and healthy feather growth. Calcium Montmorillonite clay provides a bioavailable form of calcium that is easy for birds to absorb. The chelated minerals in the clay help prevent over-supplementation, allowing birds to absorb just the right amount of calcium needed for their specific growth and development. This is especially important for birds that suffer from brittle bones or feather-plucking behavior due to nutritional imbalances.

Detoxification and Heavy Metal Protection

Birds are also particularly vulnerable to toxins, especially heavy metals like lead and mercury, which can accumulate in their bodies over time. Calcium Montmorillonite clay works as a detoxifier, helping birds to eliminate these harmful substances from their systems. By safely binding with these toxins, clay ensures that they are expelled from the bird’s body, preventing long-term health complications. Regular supplementation with clay can protect birds from the harmful effects of environmental toxins and support overall health.

Balancing Calcium and Phosphorus in Cats

Maintaining the proper balance between calcium and phosphorus is essential for cats, particularly those with chronic kidney disease or other health conditions. When phosphorus levels in the body rise, it can lead to an imbalance that causes the body to draw calcium from the bones, weakening them over time.

Correcting Nutrient Imbalances

Calcium Montmorillonite clay helps to maintain the delicate balance between calcium and phosphorus in cats, preventing the negative effects of phosphorus buildup. This is especially important for older cats or those with kidney problems. By supplementing a cat’s diet with clay, pet owners can ensure their cat receives the right amount of calcium to support bone health and overall vitality, without the risk of over-supplementation.

Supporting Pregnant Pets with Clay

Pregnant dogs and cats have unique nutritional needs to support the healthy development of their offspring. Calcium Montmorillonite clay offers an ideal way to provide these essential nutrients while detoxifying the mother’s system and ensuring the well-being of both mother and babies.

Providing Essential Nutrients During Pregnancy

The chelated minerals in calcium Montmorillonite clay ensure that pregnant pets receive the proper nutrients for bone and tissue development in their offspring. By balancing calcium levels and other trace minerals, the clay supports a healthy pregnancy and can help prevent nutrient deficiencies that might otherwise impact the health of both the mother and her pups or kittens.

Detoxification During Pregnancy

In addition to providing essential nutrients, clay acts as a detoxifying agent during pregnancy, helping to remove harmful substances from the mother’s system. This is especially important for pets that may be exposed to environmental toxins or poor-quality food during pregnancy. By eliminating these toxins, clay helps protect both the mother and her developing offspring from potential harm.

The Power of Calcium Montmorillonite Clay for Pets

The use of calcium Montmorillonite clay as a natural remedy for pets is a powerful way to support their health and well-being. From promoting kidney health and improving nutrient absorption to detoxifying the body and enhancing skin and coat condition, clay offers numerous benefits for pets of all sizes and species.

While it is not a replacement for conventional medical treatments, calcium Montmorillonite clay provides a natural and complementary approach that can enhance the effectiveness of traditional therapies. Whether you’re dealing with specific health issues or simply looking to improve your pet’s overall vitality, clay is a safe and effective solution that works in harmony with your pet’s body.

Always consult your veterinarian before introducing clay into your pet’s diet, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions. With the proper dosage and administration, calcium Montmorillonite clay can make a significant difference in your pet’s life, helping them thrive naturally and healthily.