Understanding Probiotics for Dogs and Cats

Probiotics are live microorganisms thought to support a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. In pets, that balance plays a role in digestion, and — like in humans — a lot of overall wellness starts in the gut.

Common situations where pet parents consider probiotics include diet changes, travel, stressful events, or just wanting to support everyday digestive health as part of a normal routine.

Not all probiotics are the same — different strains are studied for different things, and pet-specific formulas are generally preferred over human probiotics, since a dog or cat's gut microbiome isn't the same as ours.

As with any supplement, probiotics are meant to support everyday wellness, not treat a diagnosed digestive condition. If your pet has ongoing digestive issues, that's worth a trip to the vet rather than a supplement alone.