The Benefits of Probiotic Supplements For Dogs and Cats

What are Probiotics?

Probiotics are dietary supplements that supply beneficial bacteria to the intestinal track of animals and people. These microorganisms benefit health by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria that cause a variety of health problems.

"Good" bacteria exists at natural, balanced levels in healthy animals, and serves as a line of defense against harmful bacteria your pet might inhale or ingest. But diet, medications, age, and even stress can cause an imbalance that results in digestive and other health issues. Probiotic supplements are designed to restore bacterial balance so this natural line of defense works properly.

Signs of Probiotic Imbalance in Dogs and Cats

There are signs and symptoms you can look for that indicate your dog or cat may be suffering from a depletion of beneficial bacteria. Usually these are associated with the digestive tract, and include:

• Constipation
• Flatulence
• Diarrhea
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Your pet may also seem sluggish, have skin problems, or display signs of a weak immune system.

Causes and Triggers

Generally, an imbalance of intestinal bacteria types for cats and dogs is associated with an external cause.

One of the most common causes of probiotic depletion in pets is the use of antibiotics. The problem can be understood in part by looking at the terms. Biotic refers to organic life, with pro supporting, and anti destroying. The job of antibiotics is to destroy harmful bacteria, but unfortunately antibiotic drugs cannot distinguish between useful and harmful bacteria-so they destroy both.

If your pet was administered antibiotics and is showing of signs of probiotic depletion, a supplement can restore the necessary amount of healthful bacteria into their system.

Other factors that play a part in the depletion of healthy bacteria in pets include:

• Possible ingestion of fertilizers, pesticides or other chemical pollutants
• Poor diet
• Use of prescription drugs
• Age

If none of these factors seem likely, also consider if your pet has experienced recent stress, such as a kennel stay or change is household routine, as this can also trigger probiotic imbalance and intestinal issues.

Probiotic Supplements for Dogs and Cats

There is increasing evidence that probiotic supplements can prevent health issues in dogs and cats caused by a depletion of healthy bacteria levels. Supplements are comprised of various strains of beneficial bacteria and can include a combination of digestive enzymes, prebioitics and probiotics. Some formulas contain additional nutrients to support the digestive tract in dogs and cats, and may be specially formulated for conditions like food allergies or as post-antibiotic treatments.

Probiotics are also sometimes added directly to pet foods. However, your pet may not get a consistent dosage through their feed, so for best results supplements are recommend.

Probiotic supplements are a type of natural treatment that promotes holistic health for your cat or dog. These treatments take a proactive approach to maintaining pet health and help fight disease without the side effects of many prescription medications. Along with exercise and a healthy diet, holistic products like probiotic supplements will support excellent health and longevity for your dog or cat.

Holistic Pet Info provides information and products on holistic care for dogs and cats. Visit us to learn how to manage your pet's health with natural pet products like nutritional supplements, vitamins, herbal and homeopathic remedies. Probiotics supplements for dogs and cats can provide digestive support to your pet and help boost energy levels and overall health.