Why probiotics for my dog and/or cat?
Bacteria are found throughout your dog's and/or cat's body, the majority of which are found in their intestines. The intestines are essential for your dog's and/or cat's health. A well-balanced diet for dogs and cats, enriched with stable and viable probiotics, promotes healthy gut flora and your pet's overall health.
What are probiotics ?
Probiotics are defined by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) as "live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host." There is growing evidence to support the use of probiotics in companion animals, particularly for improving gut health while also supporting other bodily systems, such as the brain, skin, and kidneys.
Which probiotic strains are suitable for use in dogs and cats?
Our unique BF®Petfood probiotic supplements, available in liquid (dog), candy (dog), and tablet (cat and dog), contain spore-forming probiotics such as Bacillus velezensis, which have the significant advantage of being highly stable. The spores act as a natural protective shield for the microorganism itself. This makes our probiotics less susceptible to the acidic stomach fluids of dogs and/or cats, which they must survive. Furthermore, they are better able to maintain their viability in pet products over a long shelf life. To receive approval from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), certain safety and effectiveness criteria must be met. The EFSA-approved bacterial strains we use as gut flora stabilizers for dogs and cats are Bacillus velezensis DSM 15544 and Enterococcus faecium DSM 10663/NCIMB 10415 4b1707.
How do probiotics affect the gut environment?
The gut flora in the gastrointestinal tract must be in balance to function properly. Disruptions due to factors such as illness, stress, rapid dietary changes, or certain medications can lead to dysbiosis (an imbalance of gut flora), which can harm the host's health. Probiotic support aims to populate the gut with beneficial bacteria that adhere to the intestinal mucosa and colonize the intestine. These bacteria help stabilize the local microbial community, limit the growth of harmful microbes, and strengthen the gut's immune barrier through various processes.
BF®Petfood probiotics.
The specially developed BF®Petfood probiotic supplements, liquid (dog), candies (dog), and tablets (cat and dog), support digestion and intestinal function, as well as nutrient absorption. They can reduce loose stools, flatulence, and bloating in dogs and cats of all ages. They can also be helpful after antibiotic use, during times of stress, when switching to a different food, and for digestive problems, as they can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and support your dog's and/or cat's immune system.
For more information, email info@bfpetfood.nl or use the contact page.
