A better understanding of the pet microbiome is creating new opportunities to support the health and wellbeing of dogs and cats. Research into the microorganisms that live in the gut and oral cavity is revealing how they interact with important functions, from digestion to immune health.
For brands developing pet health products, this is an opportunity to explore targeted probiotic solutions. Probi brings established expertise in probiotic research, strain development and microbiome science to the growing field of probiotics for pets.
A diverse community of microorganisms live in the digestive tract where it plays an important role in nutrient metabolism, digestive function and interactions with the immune system. Maintaining a healthy pet microbiome is a critical part of overall animal health.
The pet microbiome is influenced by diet, age, environment, stress, and medication. These can affect microbial composition and activity with implications for a range of physiological functions.
As research into the animal microbiome grows, we are seeing opportunities for targeted nutritional approaches that support pet health and wellbeing.
Probiotics are live organisms that when administered in adequate amounts can confer a health benefit on the host. Their effects are strain specific, meaning different microorganisms have distinct properties and potential applications:
Three application areas:
→ Digestive health and gut microbiome balance
Select probiotics can support a healthy gut microbiome, maintain normal stool quality, and help manage digestive disturbances. Evidence varies by strain and application, making targeted research an important consideration when developing probiotic solutions for pets.
→ Immune function and overall wellbeing
The gut microbiome and immune system interact continuously. Certain probiotics are being investigated for their potential to influence this relationship and support normal immune function. Understanding these interactions offers a further area of research for developing targeted, nutritional solutions.
→ Oral health and oral microbiome
The oral cavity is home to its own microbial community, which plays a role in maintaining the local environment. Research into selected microorganisms is exploring their potential to support a balanced oral microbiome, with possible applications in pet oral health hygiene and fresh breath products.
Turning microbiome research into effective pet health products requires more than identifying promising microorganisms. Strain selection, supporting evidence, stability, viability and delivery format; all play a role in developing solutions that meet the requirements of the finished product.
For manufacturers and brands, this creates an opportunity to move beyond broad probiotic positioning and explore targeted applications supported by relevant scientific research.
Probi brings its experience in probiotic research and biotic solutions to this evolving area of pet nutrition. Through Pet Health by Probi®, the company is extending its expertise into companion animal health, focusing on digestive and oral health applications.