Prebiotics and the role they play in the diet of cats

Bild: Unsplash

A healthy gut flora plays an important role in the overall health of cats. Prebiotics are a natural way to help balance gut flora and improve digestion. In this article, we tell you how important prebiotics are for cats and how they can benefit their health.

What are prebiotics?

Prebiotics are non-digestible food components that promote the growth and activity of certain bacteria in the intestinal tract. They serve as food for beneficial intestinal bacteria and help to balance the intestinal flora to maintain. Essentially, prebiotics support the growth of good bacteria in the gut and inhibit the growth of bad bacteria.

What are the benefits of prebiotics for cats?

Improved Digestion: Prebiotics promote healthy digestion by stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. A healthy intestinal flora contributes to better absorption of nutrients and helps to reduce digestive disorders such as diarrhea or constipation.

Boosting the immune system: The bulk of a cat's immune system is located in the gut. Prebiotics support healthy intestinal flora and help maintain a strong immune system. A well-functioning immune system can help prevent infections and diseases in cats.

Reducing Stress: Stress can have a negative impact on gut health. Prebiotics can help protect the gut during stressful situations by increasing the number of good bacteria and helping to balance the gut flora. This can be particularly beneficial for cats with sensitive digestive systems or during periods of change or travel.

What prebiotics are there for cats?

There are different types of prebiotics that can be used in cats. The most common include: FOS (Fructooligosaccharides): FOS are complex sugars that occur naturally in many plants. They promote the growth of bifidobacteria and support intestinal health.

MOS (mannan oligosaccharides): MOS are yeast components that promote the growth of lactobacilli in the gut. They can help bind and eliminate harmful bacteria.

Inulin: Inulin is a soluble fiber that promotes the growth of bifidobacteria. It can aid in digestion and improve the absorption of nutrients.

Potential sources of prebiotics

Prebiotics can be found in various natural sources. Some foods that contain natural prebiotics include chicory, Jerusalem artichoke, and dandelion root. These can be included in the cat's diet to provide a natural source of prebiotics. However, it is important to observe the appropriate amount and handling of these foods as some of them can cause health problems in large amounts. Consult your veterinarian if you have additional questions about prebiotics.