The cat's gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of billions of micro-organisms that directly influence digestion, the immune system and overall well-being. Probiotics are living micro-organisms that, administered in adequate amounts, help maintain and restore the balance of that microbiome. In this article we explain how they work, when they are useful and how to incorporate them into your cat's diet.
What are probiotics and how do they work?
Probiotics are strains of beneficial bacteria (mainly Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Enterococcus faecium) or yeasts (Saccharomyces boulardii) that, arriving alive in the gut, compete with pathogenic bacteria, reinforce the intestinal barrier and modulate the immune response. Their effect is not immediate: at least 2 to 4 weeks of continuous administration are needed to observe perceptible changes.
Benefits of probiotics in cats
Improve digestion and reduce gastrointestinal disorders
Probiotics help regulate intestinal transit, reducing both diarrhoea and constipation. They are especially useful during episodes of acute stress-induced diarrhoea (change of home, vet visit, arrival of a new animal) or after antibiotic treatment.
Strengthen the immune system
Approximately 70% of the cat's immune system is associated with the lymphoid tissue of the gut. A balanced microbiome strengthens that immune barrier, reducing susceptibility to infections and favouring a more modulated inflammatory response.
Reduce symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease
In cats with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), probiotics can help reduce mucosal inflammation, but always as a complement to veterinary treatment, never as a substitute.
Support recovery after antibiotics
Antibiotics eliminate both pathogenic and beneficial bacteria. Administering probiotics during and after antibiotic treatment helps restore intestinal flora and prevents antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.
When to give probiotics to your cat?
- During and after antibiotic treatment
- During episodes of acute diarrhoea or constipation
- In stressful situations (moving house, travel, new animals at home)
- In cats with sensitive digestion or unstable microbiome
- As preventive support in senior cats or those with a compromised immune system
Types of probiotics for cats
Probiotics for cats are available in several forms:
- Powders or sachets: easy to mix with wet food or dry food
- Oral paste: useful for cats that refuse supplements mixed with their food
- Dry food with integrated probiotics: some dry food formulas include stabilised probiotic strains that arrive alive in the gut
How to incorporate probiotics into your cat's diet?
The foundation of good digestive health is always a balanced diet. Find suitable options in our selection of cat food. For cats with specific digestive needs, check our selection of Trovetplus Intestinal, formulated to support the microbiome and intestinal function.
Precautions and contraindications
Probiotics are generally safe in healthy cats. However, in immunocompromised cats or those with active pancreatitis, it is advisable to consult the vet before starting supplementation. Never replace veterinary treatment with probiotics if the cat shows bloody diarrhoea, repeated vomiting or severe prostration.
