Daily prebiotic and probiotic supplements benefit both people and animals. These dietary components aid the digestive tract, decreasing discomfort and improving digestion.
They do, however, serve quite unique purposes in the digestive process, therefore keeping a balance between them is crucial. To comprehend the advantages of probióticos and prebióticos in dogs, you must first understand the distinction between the two and how they function within your dog’s stomach. You’ll be able to correctly improve your pet’s health by learning more about it in the following article.
What are Prebiotics?
Prebiotics are nondigestible food substances that promote the growth and activity of bacteria that are beneficial to the intestine. Many prebiotics are fermentable fibers that decompose to release fatty acids and aid in the maintenance of the colon,strengthen the immune system and reduce toxic bacteria while also enhancing mineral absorption.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are living microorganisms that help our dog’s body by strengthening its immune and digestive systems. These bacteria work in the dog’s stomach to combat harmful organisms that might cause disease. Probiotics are good bacteria that help the microflora in your dog’s stomach decompose and digest food properly.
In a nutshell, by feeding probiotic substances, you will aid in the maintenance of a healthy bacterial population in your furry friend’s digestive tract.
The difference between these two components is that the prebiotics contain plant-based fibers that benefit the bacteria already existing in the body, whereas the probiotics contain living microorganisms. Both work together to enhance and support gut flora balance.
To support your dog’s digestive system, an efficient digestive health supplement for dogs should contain a balanced combination of prebiotics and probiotics. They should not have any contraindications and aid in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.
What are the benefits of Prebiotic and Probiotic administration:
- Prebiotics and probiotics work together to prevent diarrhea and maintain a healthy microflora
- Prebiotics enhance the variety of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract
- Aid in the development of a strong immune system
- Enhance the health of puppies during the weaning period
- Can serve as gastric protectors
- Contain antioxidants
- Prevent sickness
- Prevent gastrointestinal disorders in animals exposed to stress
- Stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines
- They regulate intestinal transit, favoring digestion and avoiding diarrhea and constipation
- Restore normal intestinal microbiota after antibiotic treatment
- Facilitates the absorption of nutrients
- Improves the quality of feces
When can I use Prebiotics and Probiotics?
They can be used as dietary supplements or when beneficial bacteria in the gut are damaged or destroyed, when stomach trouble and other diseases emerge for which no obvious cause can be detected. The most frequent physical signs of intestinal bacterial imbalances are bad breath, diarrhea, gas or overall stomach discomfort. Also when ingestion of inappropriate elements is seen,such as hairballs, highly processed foods or when your furry friend has IBS.
In general, we can say that probiotic supplements are useful in these cases:
- Illness and medications:
Probiotics are advised to be taken after taking antibiotics or steroids, which deplete beneficial bacteria and frequently result in diarrhea.
- Preventively:
To keep the balance of your dog’s intestinal flora, you can give them probiotic or symbiotic (prebiotic and probiotic) supplements on a regular basis. Additionally, you support a robust immune system that is equipped to fight off any illnesses.
- Advanced age:
To counteract age-related reduction of gut bacterial diversity.
- Malnutrition:
Unfortunately, many dogs experience periods of malnutrition for a variety of causes, including abandonment, abuse, or disease. Probiotics are excellent allies in situations of animal malnutrition because they boost the immune system and help the animal gradually return to normal functioning.
- Parasites:
To treat certain intestinal parasites and stop dogs from getting them.
- Stress:
Prior to or during a transitional time that causes tension and worry. For instance, when leaving a shelter, foster home, or nursery, while relocating, traveling, or through significant life events like the birth of a child, the separation from or death of the owner, the addition of a new pet, etc.
- Nutrition and diet:
If you suddenly switched your dog’s food, if it is intolerant, or if your dog has eaten something inappropriate.
Dog Probiotic Supplement Options:
There are many commercial probiotics that are very good options to incorporate into your furry friend’s diet. Some options are capsules/pills, powder or herbal mixes.
Some straightforward and natural alternatives that could lack the symbiotic components are Yogurt, kefir, and fermented veggies. Consult your veterinarian to learn more about serving quantities and the best course of action for your particular case.
