Should Your Pet Take a Probiotic?

Should Your Pet Take a Probiotic?

Should Your Pet Take a Probiotic?

Should Your Pet Take a Probiotic?

As a pet owner, you will do almost anything to keep your animal companion comfortable. You will feed, play fetch, provide treats, and even let your pet sleep on your bed. But sadly, your pet may experience separation anxiety as you go on with your life activities. According to many veterinarians, pet probiotics can help address this problem.


 

Does Your Pet Need a Probiotic?



In addition to reducing separation stress and anxiety, probiotics can help address your pet’s gut problems as well. Experts believe that pet probiotics can help bring a wide range of benefits. Do you have a canine companion? If so, consult your veterinarian at Madison Animal Care Hospital about your specific concerns or goals for your pet. They will help you find a probiotic with proven benefits to match your pet’s needs.


 

What Are Pet Probiotics?



Simply put, these are friendly bacteria. Animals have millions of them in their stomach. They help fight infections and strengthen their immune system. Also, they make nutrients and vitamins, in addition to helping with digestion. After all, a healthy animal needs a healthy microbiome.


 

Changes in Microbiome



Changes in your pet’s microbiome can affect your animal companion in several ways. These include:

 

  • Gas
     

  • Diarrhea
     

  • Bloating
     

  • Allergies
     

  • Cramping
     

  • Obesity
     

  • Bad breath
     

  • Upset stomach
     

  • General poor health



Many of these changes can result from several things. These include antibiotics, stress, parasites, weaning, changes in food, spoiled food, and a high carbohydrate diet. Does your pet fall sick often? If so, consider the role of changes in their microbiome. That is why you should take your animal friend for regular veterinary exams.


 

Benefits of Pet Probiotics



You may want to consider giving your lovable animal companion probiotics. In addition to helping with stomach issues and indigestion, pet probiotics provide several health benefits.


However, you should understand that not all pet probiotics are the same. For starters, a microbe must provide a benefit to be a beneficial probiotic. So as a pet parent, you should look for probiotics with demonstrated evidence of efficiency and safety.


Also, pets given probiotic supplements tend to respond better to several external stressors. They are also better able to maintain a more positive emotional state. The probiotic strain given to your pet can also treat various illnesses. Hence, you should choose the strain that will help improve your pet’s overall health.


 

Safety



According to pet care experts, probiotics are safe for pets. They often have no or very few side effects. However, be vigilant when giving any medication or supplement to your pet.


You may not notice a reaction or allergy until your animal companion encounters a substance they are hypersensitive to. Hence, you should keep a close eye on your pet for the first few weeks and months after giving a probiotic. If you notice any adverse reaction, contact your veterinarian immediately.


 

Conclusion



Probiotics can play a beneficial role in your pet’s overall health. Consider various factors before giving your pet probiotics. These include research, quality, and your pet’s sensitivity.



For more on pet probiotics, visit Madison Animal Care Hospital at our office in Huntsville, Alabama. You can call 256-461-7575 to schedule an appointment today.


In the event of an emergency, call Huntsville Veterinary & Specialist Emergency by dialing (256) 715-8389.