Lactic ferments for dogs and cats for the well-being of their intestinal microbiota
Milk enzymes for dogs and cats are microorganisms commonly used to prevent or treat various pathological conditions of the gastrointestinal system.
The gastrointestinal system of dogs and cats, as well as that of humans, is populated by a large community of microorganisms that is called the microbiota.
The gut microbiota is a complex ecosystem and is deputed to perform vital functions for the health of our four-legged friends.
Let’s learn more about the gut microbiota
This microbial population plays a crucial role in host health, influencing digestion, metabolism, and immune responses.
In a healthy animal, the composition of the microbiota is characterized by a balanced microbial diversity, predominated by genus of bacteria such as Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria.
These microorganisms work harmoniously together to maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier, prevent the onset of disease, and modulate inflammation.
However, the composition of the microbiota can alter, and when this happens, it is referred to as dysbiosis.
What is gut dysbiosis
Dysbiosis is a state of altered composition of the gut microbiota, often associated with decreased bacterial diversity and increased pathogenic strains.
This condition can be caused by a number of factors, including improper diet, stress, antibiotic use and disease.
Clinical signs of dysbiosis in dogs and cats may include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and behavioral disturbances.
It is often related to diseases, including colitis, enteropathy, and systemic diseases.
Integrating prebiotics and probiotics into dog diets is a promising strategy to improve gut health and prevent dysbiosis.
Prebiotics and probiotics
Prebiotics and probiotics are two categories of substances that can promote healthy gut microbiota.
Prebiotics are nondigestible food compounds that stimulate the growth and activity of specific beneficial microorganisms in the colon, thereby promoting a favorable intestinal environment.
Probiotics, on the other hand, are live microorganisms that, when administered in appropriate amounts, confer a beneficial effect on host health.
In dogs and cats, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Enterococcus strains are frequently used as probiotics.
Mechanisms of action of milk enzymes for cats and dogs
Milk enzymes exert their effects through various mechanisms of action.
One of the main ones is the inhibition of pathogen growth through adhesion to intestinal mucosa.
Probiotics improve gut acidity and inhibit the proliferation of harmful bacteria.
In addition, probiotics can stimulate the local immune response by activating immune cells in the intestinal mucosa, increasing antibody production and modulating inflammation.
During acute diarrhea, it is always good to administer probiotics, as they help to quickly restore the balance of the intestinal microbiota and reduce recovery time.
The benefits of probiotics in enteric forms in dogs and cats
Probiotics speed recovery, promoting a rapid return to normal stool consistency, and helping to reduce the duration of diarrhea.
This is especially important for dogs facing stressful situations or changes in diet.
For maximum benefits, it is essential to use products formulated exclusively for pets and to follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment.
Human probiotics often contain strains that do not survive or are not effective in the intestines of dogs and cats.
Lactic ferments for elderly dog and cat
In young dogs and cats, the microbiota tends to be more diverse and stable; in contrast, in older animals, there is a decrease in microbial diversity and an increase in potentially pathogenic species.
Precautions to be taken to maintain the health of the microbiota in older animals are critical.
First, it is important to provide adequate and balanced nutrition.
In addition, elderly cats and dogs may particularly benefit from taking probiotics to maintain the balance of gut flora physiologically deteriorated by age.
Supplementing milk enzymes can help them improve digestion and increase nutrient absorption.
Consulting with a veterinarian remains essential to identify personalized strategies that can address the specific needs of each animal.
To have your dog or cat checked, for periodic check-ups and specialist visits, contact the veterinary doctors on our staff who are always available to you.
We would also like to remind you that Clinica La Veterinaria is always open h24 every day including holidays and with First Aid service from 8 pm to 8 am.
