A Gut Feeling… How to Choose the Right Probiotic for your Dog or Cat?
If you are looking for a gastrointestinal supplement for your pet, you might be overwhelmed by the variety of options available. Even the terms are confusing. Prebiotics are substances that feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut and help them grow. Probiotics are live microorganisms that feed on these prebiotics, helping maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, support the immune system, and improve digestion. However, not all gastrointestinal supplements are the same, and some might be more suitable for your pet than others. Read the article below for more information regarding the ingredients of probiotics for dogs and cats to select the most suitable products for your pet.
Recommendation of Probiotics for Dog and Cat
Six of the best products that I use with my pet patients are
- Protexin Synbiotic D-C
- Purina Fortiflora
- Protexin Pro-Kolin
- Protexin Pro-fibre
- Vetriscience GI balance Pro
- Protexin Pro-Soluble
All of these products are suitable for dogs and cats, and can be used daily or as needed.
Protexin Synbiotic D-C is one of the most popular choices. It is a capsule that contains seven strains of probiotics and prebiotics that I use in pets when they have a bad gut upset. It is a high-strength product that can help restore the balance of bacteria in the gut after antibiotic treatment, stress, or illness. It can also help prevent and treat diarrhoea and support the immune system.
Purina Fortiflora is a powder that contains one strain of probiotic and vitamins. It is a well-researched product that can help improve stool quality, reduce diarrhoea, and boost the immune system.
Pro Plan - FortiFlora Probiotic Cat Supplement - 30 Sachets
Pro Plan - FortiFlora Probiotic Dog Supplement - 30 Sachets
Protexin Pro-Kolin for cats and dogs is one of my favourite options, a paste that contains two strains of probiotics, prebiotics, kaolin, and pectin. Kaolin is a clay that can help bind toxins and bacteria in the gut and excrete them from the body. Pectin is a fibre that can help soothe the gut lining and regulate bowel movements. Protexin Pro-Kolin can help treat acute and chronic diarrhoea and promote a healthy gut flora.
Protexin Pro-fibre is a palatable pellet that contains both soluble and insoluble fibre, as well as five strains of probiotics and two types of prebiotics. It can help promote normal bowel function, reduce the risk of diarrhoea, and support the growth of friendly bacteria.
Vetriscience GI balance Pro is a soft chew that contains four strains of probiotics, prebiotics, and enzymes. Enzymes are substances that help break down food and aid digestion. This product can help improve stool quality, reduce gas and bloating, and enhance nutrient absorption. I like the fact it’s a chew, which can make it easy to give to pets.
Protexin Pro-Soluble is a powder that contains one strain of probiotic and prebiotics. It is a simple and economical product that can help maintain a healthy digestive system, prevent and treat diarrhoea, and support the immune system.
Summary of the key benefits of each product
|
Product |
Format |
Probiotic strains |
Prebiotics |
Enzymes |
Kaolin |
Pectin |
Vitamins |
|
Protexin Pro-fibre |
Pellet |
5 |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
Vetriscience GI balance Pro |
Soft chew |
4 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
|
Protexin Synbiotic D-C |
Capsule |
7 |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
Protexin Pro-Kolin |
Paste |
2 |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Protexin Pro-Soluble |
Powder |
1 |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
Purina fortiflora |
Powder |
1 |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Ultimately, the choice always depends on the individual pet, what format is easiest to use with them, and their specific problem, so it’s tough to recommend the best option, although I would say that I most commonly use Protexin Pro-Kolin for shorter term problems, and Vetriscience GI Balance if I’m giving pet patients for the longer term.
Dr. David and the Vetopia Team.
