Supporting microbiome health is the key to health and longevity in your canine and feline patients. Learn how functional treats, supplement powders, and microbiome testing kits can help.
The microbiome health of dogs and cats is critical to their overall well-being. It helps regulate the immune system, supports disease resistance, healthy digestion and metabolism, and reduces allergies and inflammation. The microbiome can also impact behavior via the gut-brain axis. In other words, supporting healthy guts can make your patients healthier and your clients happier. Here are the top ways to support microbiome health in your canine and feline patients.
RECOMMEND A COMPLETE AND BALANCED DIET
Complete and balanced diets for dogs and cats contain what they need for optimal health, including vitamins, minerals, fats, carbohydrates, amino acids, and proteins, as well as fiber-rich ingredients that support the microbiome. Clients can supplement diets with fresh, whole foods for additional gut support.
AVOID UNNECESSARY ANTIBIOTICS
Antibiotics kill the good bacteria as well as the bad, and can disrupt the balance of gut flora. It’s important to prescribe them only when necessary, and to recommend probiotics when you must use antibiotics.
PRESCRIBE REGULAR EXERCISE
Exercise supports cardiovascular and brain health, promotes good sleep, helps manage weight, and enhances overall health. What’s more, it may modify the microbiome by increasing the number of bacterial species and increasing diversity among microbiota.
PREVENT PARASITIC INFECTIONS
Many parasites, such as Giardia, can change and disrupt a dog or cat’s microbiome. Educate your clients about parasite prevention, including fleas, ticks, worms, and protozoa.
CONSIDER MICROBIOME TESTING
Gut microbiome testing for dogs and cats can provide insights into their digestive health, including whether or not their diet promotes the right microbes. Testing can help you understand the state of your patients’ gut health so you can take steps to improve it if necessary.
USE FUNCTIONAL TREATS AND POWDERS
Functional treats and powders are tasty snacks that also help support animal health. The trick is to find treats and supplement powders made with nutrient-dense, high quality ingredients, and microbiome-supporting probiotics.
SUPPORT MICROBIOME HEALTH WITH CAVE PETS PRODUCTS
Microbiome health is the foundation of all Cave Pets products, which include dog treats, Regenerative Organic Certified® mushroom and probiotic powders, multi-glandular powders, and microbiome testing kits. The formulas are crafted to nourish an animal’s body and foster a healthy balance of gut bacteria, supporting digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health.
Visit Cave Pets to learn more about their microbiome-supporting products and test kits.
AUTHOR PROFILE
IVC Journal is a division of Redstone Media Group. Innovation is the key to veterinarians staying competitive and being able to provide their clients with the absolute best care possible. IVC Journal delivers the most up to date and compelling information available by bridging the gap between the traditional worlds of allopathic and integrative veterinary care.
