The feline gut microbiome plays a critical role in health. Probiotics can support it in specific situations.
When Probiotics Help Cats
- During or after antibiotic treatment
- Stress-related GI symptoms
- Acute diarrhoea
- Inflammatory bowel disease (alongside other treatment)
- Feline herpesvirus flare-ups
Best Probiotic Strains for Cats
- Enterococcus faecium SF68 (most studied in cats)
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
How to Give Probiotics to Cats
Powder form is easiest — sprinkle on wet food. Capsules can be opened and mixed in food. Chews are often refused by cats.
Safety
Probiotics are generally very safe for cats. Side effects (mild gas or loose stool) usually resolve within a few days.