Your pet’s gastrointestinal system is similar to your own, insofar as it plays host to many different types of bacteria. During normal digestion or in times of sickness, many of these bacterial strains can become depleted. Like us, pets fall ill to gastrointestinal upset brought on by physical and emotional stress, viruses, bacteria and other toxins.

Dogs and cats often come upon their digestive troubles in unique ways. For example, your dog can get sick eating something off the street or out of the kitchen trash, while your cat can pick up bacteria from a mouse kill. Conversely, not every antibiotic will agree with your pet’s stomach. Owners know that many kinds of adventures in pet care can result in vomiting and diarrhea if the normal intestinal microflora become compromised.

Normal bacterial microflora, which inhabit your pet’s intestinal tract, play a role in overall health. Good bacteria, or probiotics, play a large part in supporting the immune system. Studies on pigs have shown that high levels of Lactobacillus can reduce salmonella poising. When rats are weaned from their mothers, probiotics have been shown to reduce colitis. Probiotics also help decrease allergies, the severity of inflammatory bowel disease and other diseases of the gastrointestinal system.

Fortunately for humans, whenever stress, antibiotics or an infection upset our intestinal tracts, we can supplement with a probiotic. Many owners similarly try to enhance their pet’s meal with probiotics to ensure that the normal intestinal flora remain intact and healthy prior to boarding, surgery or other stressful situations. Yogurt is a common choice, but only plain, full-fat yogurt contains a high level of probiotics. But basically, it’s a good start, but not the therapeutic dose of active culture required to help intestinal flora flourish.

A more reliable and measured option is an oral probiotic supplement for your pet. Lactobacillus acidophilus is a commonly used bacteria and it can be found alone or in combination with other probiotic strains. Many commercially available products must be stored in the refrigerator.

The dosage you’ll give your pet depends on its species and size. Most veterinarians feel that probiotics are safe and present little downside. While there is limited information about the use of probiotics in cats, these products are considered safe simply because they are classified as nutraceuticals, which means a beneficial food or naturally occurring dietary supplement.

Before you supplement your cat or dog, always consult your veterinarian to determine the amount and kind of probiotic that is best for your pet.

Tummy Tips

Starting your pet on a probiotic is easy to do. Many people sprinkle the contents of a capsule directly onto their pet’s food. Once the probiotics have been opened, check the label for proper storage instructions. Products vary considerably in quality and shelf life. It’s important to ensure that the product you choose contains live, viable cultures so your pet receives the greatest benefit.