Prebiotics and Probiotics for dogs and cats are gaining popularity in the animal community—and for good reason. These beneficial bacteria play a vital role in your pet’s gut health, affecting digestion, immunity, and overall wellness.
But how do you know if your furry friend could benefit from prebiotics or probiotics?
In this article, we’ll explore the 7 signs that indicate your dog or cat might need extra gut support and how prebiotics and probiotics can help.
The 7 Signs
1. Digestive Problems in Dogs & Cats
If your dog or cat experiences frequent vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation, it could be a sign of an imbalanced gut microbiome. Probiotics help restore harmony by replenishing good bacteria that aid digestion. I recommend Body Biotics, a natural probiotic that mimics gut bacteria found in pre-industrialised farming environments. It activates upon ingestion, thriving in your pet’s digestive system and offering unmatched support for chronic digestive issues.
Probiotic Tip: combine probiotics with a gentle, easily digestible diet to aid recovery during digestive upset.
2. Gas, Bloating & Gut Imbalance in Pets
While some gas is normal, excessive flatulence or visible bloating might indicate poor gut health. Probiotics can reduce fermentation in the gut and improve digestion, leading to less discomfort (and fewer embarrassing moments!). Saccharomyces Boulardii is an excellent option for pets experiencing bloating or excessive gas. Its yeast-based formula survives stomach acid, ensuring it reaches the intestines to feed the good bacteria and reduce digestive discomfort.
3. Skin & Allergy Problems in Pets
Did you know that gut health is closely linked to skin health? Chronic itching, redness, or hotspots could indicate an immune imbalance originating in the gut. Probiotics can help regulate immune responses and reduce inflammation caused by allergies.
Pro Tip: pair probiotics and prebiotics with a species-appropriate diet to further support your pet’s skin and coat health.
4. Probiotics for Dogs with Recurring Ear Infections
Ear infections, especially in dogs, are often linked to yeast overgrowth. Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in your pet’s body, reducing the frequency of infections. Saccharomyces Boulardii is particularly effective at managing yeast overgrowth, supporting gut balance, and reducing the likelihood of recurring ear issues.
5. Supporting Pets After Antibiotic Treatment
Antibiotics can disrupt your pet’s natural gut flora, killing both harmful and beneficial bacteria. If your dog or cat has recently completed a course of antibiotics, probiotics are essential to replenish good bacteria and support recovery. I recommend Body Biotics and Saccharomyces Boulardii as top post-antibiotic options. Body Biotics replenishes good bacteria naturally and restore gut harmony, while Saccharomyces Boulardii specifically addresses antibiotic-associated diarrhoea and inflammation.
6. Stress-Related Digestive Upsets in Pets
Stressful situations like moving, travelling, or introducing a new family member can upset your pet’s digestive system. Probiotics can help regulate their gut health, reducing diarrhoea or appetite loss caused by stress. Start Saccharomyces Boulardii a week before a trip or other stressful event. Its ability to survive stomach acid ensures effective support for your pet’s gut during transitions.
7. Frequent Illness & Low Energy in Pets
A healthy gut is crucial for a strong immune system. Dogs or cats that feel lethargic or catch infections easily might benefit from probiotics to boost their natural defences. Both Body Biotics and Saccharomyces Boulardii strengthen your pet’s gut health and immunity. Body Biotics helps restore a thriving gut microbiome, while Saccharomyces Boulardii enhances nutrient absorption and balances intestinal flora.
What is the difference between Prebiotics & Probiotics?
While both prebiotics and probiotics are essential for gut health, they serve distinct but complementary roles. Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria or yeasts that help maintain or restore the natural balance of microorganisms in the gut. Often referred to as “good bacteria,” probiotics directly contribute to gut health by colonising the digestive system. In contrast, prebiotics are non-digestible fibres or compounds that act as nourishment for these probiotics, promoting their growth and activity.
Examples of foods that help promote good bacteria:
- Burdock Root
- Bananas
- Pumpkin
- Sweet Potatoes
- Apples (without seeds)
- Kelp
- Hemp seed
- Wheat bran
Examples of Probiotic Foods:
- Goat Yogurt or Kefir (plain, unsweetened)
- Green Tripe (raw or freeze-dried)
However, when an animal’s microbiome becomes significantly imbalanced—due to antibiotics, stress, illness, or poor diet—it may require stronger prebiotics and probiotics to restore harmony. In these cases, higher-potency probiotics with elevated CFU (colony-forming units) counts are often necessary. CFUs represent the number of live, active bacteria in a probiotic product, indicating its strength and effectiveness. A higher CFU count means more beneficial bacteria are available to quickly repopulate the gut, which is vital during periods of acute imbalance.
When selecting probiotics, it’s essential to match the CFU count to your pet’s needs:
- Dogs: Typically benefit from 1 billion to 10 billion CFUs per serving, depending on size, age, and health. Larger dogs or those with significant imbalances may require higher counts.
- Cats: Usually require 1 billion to 5 billion CFUs per serving due to their smaller size.
To enhance the probiotic effect, I recommend feeding a prebiotic supplement alongside it, such as Psyllium Husks or Pure Inulin powder. Start with a lower dose and gradually increase it while monitoring your pet’s response.
How Can You Help Your Pet Thrive?
Not sure where to start?
Book a one-on-one consultation to create a tailored wellness plan for your furry friend, you can find Body Biotics and Saccharomyces Boulardii in our carefully curated online store, designed to meet your pet’s unique needs.
By addressing gut health, you’re not just solving short-term issues—you’re building a foundation for long-term wellness.
Don’t wait to give your pet the support they deserve. Together, we can help your pet thrive!
Main – Photo by Helena Jankovičová Kováčová
