Probiotics are good microorganisms in animals’ and humans’ digestive systems. They maintain gut microbial equilibrium, which affects health and well-being.
This post will discuss probiotics in cat food and how they may help your pet.
Benefits of Probiotics in Cat Food
Probiotics can provide several benefits for cats, such as:
- Improved digestion: Probiotics improve digestion, absorb nutrients, and avoid diarrhea and constipation. They may also treat inflammatory bowel illness, IBS, and colitis.
- Enhanced immune system: Probiotics boost immunity and defend against infections. Asthma, allergies, and skin infections may be helped.
- Reduced risk of gastrointestinal issues: Probiotics inhibit E. coli and Salmonella overgrowth, which may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and infections. They treat hairballs, gastritis, and ulcers.
- Maintenance of healthy gut flora: Probiotics help replenish gut microbes after antibiotics, stress, or diet changes. They regulate appetite and weight.
Choosing the Right Probiotic Cat Food
Not all probiotic cat foods are created equal. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one for your cat:
- Look for strains of probiotics specifically beneficial for cats: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium animalis, and Enterococcus faecium commonly benefit cats. Don’t opt for human or other animal probiotics as they may not be appropriate or efficient for cats.
- Verify your pet food has vibrant and active cultures: The value of probiotics hinges on their being alive and robust. Look at the label to see the colony-forming units (CFUs) per gram or serving, signifying the probiotics’ strength. Always check for expiration dates and keep up with storage guidelines to maintain product quality and longevity.
- Consider the overall quality of the cat food: Probiotics form just one part of a balanced, nutritious diet for your pet. Ensure the food caters to your cat’s specific age, stage in life, health status, and tastes. Prioritize natural ingredients, superior protein sources, vital vitamins and minerals, and a lack of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Top Probiotic Cat Food Brands
Here are some examples of probiotic cat food brands that you may want to try:
- Purina Pro Plan Liveclear Probiotic Formula: This cat dry feed has been particularly crafted to lessen allergens found in cat fur and dander by approximately 47%. It includes a unique strain of probiotics known as Egg Product Plus that bolsters both digestive well-being and immune function. It lists chicken as the primary ingredient, boasts omega-6 fatty acids beneficial for skin and fur health, and antioxidants for general wellness.
- Addiction Grain-Free Viva La Venison: This cat wet feed includes superior New Zealand venison as the chief protein source, making it ideal for cats that have allergies or sensitivities to usual meats. It includes probiotics for digestive aid and immunity, cranberries to promote urinary tract health, and taurine to sustain heart and eye health. It avoids grains, gluten, and artificial additives.
- Now Fresh Grain-Free Senior Weight Management Recipe Dry Cat Food: This cat dry feed is intended for older cats that require a balanced weight and need to avoid obesity-related complications. It incorporates probiotics for digestive health and immunity, L-carnitine for fat metabolism and muscle bulk, glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and fur health. It is devoid of grains and gluten and incorporates fresh ingredients.
- Nature’s Logic Feline Rabbit Meal Feast With Probiotics: This cat dry feed includes rabbit meal as the primary ingredient, providing a superior protein source that is low in fat and calories. It incorporates probiotics for digestive health and immunity, dried fruits and vegetables for antioxidants and phytonutrients, and natural eggshell calcium for bone health. It avoids grains, gluten, corn, soy, wheat, rice, yeast, potatoes, synthetic vitamins, minerals, or amino acids.
- Instinct Ultimate Protein Freeze-Dried Raw-Coated Dry Cat Food: This cat dry feed is enveloped with freeze-dried raw chicken to offer a surge of flavor and nutrition. It includes probiotics for digestive health and immunity, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and fur health, and antioxidants for general wellness. It avoids grains and gluten, and lists cage-free chicken as the first ingredient.
Conclusion
Probiotics assist your cat’s intestines and immune system. They may also cure and prevent gastrointestinal disorders in cats. The types, potency, and quality of probiotics in your cat’s diet determine its probiotic benefits. Ask your vet about probiotic cat food and supplements. This guide should help you find the finest cat food with probiotics.
