In today’s expensive world, one sure way of reducing Vet visits and visibly boosting our animals general health is to simply add a ‘good’ probiotic to their daily diet. Science has proved that good gut microbiome can and does amplify good health and wellness to a large degree.

What are probiotics for pets?

Probiotics are live organisms; mainly beneficial bacteria; for the purpose of populating and regulating the gastrointestinal tracts. They also inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria such as E.Coli, Salmonella & Clostridium Perfringens.

It has become clear that beneficial microorganisms also produce natural chemicals which get into the circulation and positively influence most bodily functions, from brain function right though to gastro-intestinal abnormalities and even behaviour disorders.

Types of pet probiotics:

Probiotics for pets now come in a variety of forms. There are pills, powders, pastes and solutions, with solutions (liquid) being the most desirable, as they can be mixed directly into food, are extremely digestible and easily absorbed into the body.

All probiotics should contain one or more types of beneficial bacteria strains that carry out a variety of functions. It is not only the amount of beneficial bacteria a probiotic contains, but rather what types of strains they contain, that are beneficial to that specific species – human probiotics should not be used for animals or vice versa. The viability of many fermented food products being substituted as a probiotic is also limited, as they are sensitive to acidity, temperatures, and shelf duration.

The following families of cultures should be present in any decent animal probiotic:

• The Enterococcus strains specifically assist in treating diarrhoea, lowering cholesterol levels and improving the digestive system.
• The Lactobacillus strains improve skin and fur quality (allergies), bad breath, dental health, stool quality and also assist in binding and removing heavy metals from the body.
• The Bifidobacterium strains facilitate breaking down of food, increasing nutrient intake and efficiently reducing bloating and colic.
• The Saccharomyces strains for advanced red blood cell production, stabilising the immune system, also assist in eye health and brain function.