The Best Probiotics for Cats in 2022
- The Best Probiotic for Cats
- 1. Purina ProPlan Veterinary Supplements Fortiflora
- 2. PetUltimates Probiotics for Cats
- 3. VetriScience Laboratories Vetri Mega Probiotic
- 4. Premo Probiotic for Cats
- 5. NaturVet Digestive Enzymes Pre & Probiotics
- 6. DrFormulas Nexabiotic for Cats
- 7. Dr. Mercola Complete Probiotics
- 8. Hyperbiotics PRO-Pets A Probiotic for Cats
- 9. Jackson Galaxy Cat Probiotics with Enzymes
If your cat’s tum is upset or they appear a little under the weather, then adding a probiotic to their daily supplementation routine could bring a little more balance to their digestive life. Just like us humans, your cat’s digestive system is kept in tune thanks to a fine balance of good bacteria in their system. But when the levels of these microbiomes fall out of kilter, your pet’s digestive as well as overall health can start to suffer. However, using a probiotic that has been specifically formulated for felines can help to repopulate the live probiotic bacteria in their intestines and provide a host of health benefits, from boosting their immune system and reducing allergies to soothing stomach upsets. So, if you think your kit could benefit from having more good bacteria in their lives, then check out our review of the best probiotics for cats.
The Best Probiotic for Cats
1. Purina ProPlan Veterinary Supplements Fortiflora
Key Features
Probiotics for cats with diarrhea
Enterococcus faecium live cultures
Added vitamins and antioxidants
Tasty meat flavor
If your kit is prone to a problematic tum, then our Best Choice is a top probiotic to have in your store cupboard. To help manage diarrhea and digestive upsets in both kittens and adult cats, each sachet of FortiFlora contains a carefully balance of live active cultures from the Enterococcus family to help re-set an unhappy intestinal system. Plus, FortiFlora also contains added antioxidants for extra immune system support. One box of 30 sachets will last a month and with a tasty meat flavor, FortiFlora should appeal to most pets. Sprinkle this probiotic powder for cats over their food once a day to settle their tum and maintain a healthy level of intestinal microflora.
2. PetUltimates Probiotics for Cats
Key Features
20 different strains of live bacteria
5 billion CFUs per serving
Sugar, wheat, filler and artificial flavoring free
Sprinkle daily onto your cat’s food
Pet Ultimates have certainly packed in the little fellas in their probiotics for cats, with 20 different species and at least 5 billion CFUs per serving. Formulated for skin, gastrointestinal and immune system health, there is also 120 servings per pot, making this one of our best buys. Sprinkled daily on to your cat’s food and you could soon see less smelly litterboxes, firmer stools, healthier coat and potential reduction in any allergy symptoms your cat may be prone too. Filler free, this probiotic powder for cats is also gentle enough for kittens. Use after illness or a bout of antibiotics, for diarrhea or for straightforward gut health maintenance.
3. VetriScience Laboratories Vetri Mega Probiotic
Key Features
Seven different live bacteria from non-dairy sources
5 billion CFU per capsule
Added soluble fiber and prebiotics
Ideal for cats with allergies
If your cat has a dairy intolerance or you want an all-natural formula, then check out the Vetri Mega Probiotic. With eight different live bacteria strains, all from non-diary sources, each Vetri Mega capsule also contains 5 billion microorganisms to support your feline’s digestive system. It also has soluble fiber and prebiotics for a healthy digestive tract. These probiotic supplements are particularly good for cats with allergies or sensitivities and can also help with excess gas, diarrhea and constipation as well as boost their immune system and skin condition. And, if your kit doesn’t like to take the capsule whole, then it can easily be broken apart, and the contents sprinkled over their food.
4. Premo Probiotic for Cats
Key Features
Tasteless, all natural powder formula
Six cat-effective live strains
Non-GMO, wheat and dairy free
120 servings per tub
This digestive aid with natural probiotics for cats offers a formula of six strains of live microorganisms that can settle all the unpleasant symptoms of an unhappy digestive system. In an easy to use powder form, Premo Probiotic is tasteless as well as wheat and dairy free, making it simple to sprinkle on to your cat’s daily food or into their water bowl. Each serving contains a decent one billion CFU, to give your cat an all-round daily dose of live bacteria to boost their gut health. Ideal for the treatment of smelly gas, diarrhea, skin allergies, upset stomachs and irritable bowel syndrome, this powder probiotic can also support their immune system and general good health. Contains 120 servings and is best kept fresh in the refrigerator.
5. NaturVet Digestive Enzymes Pre & Probiotics
Key Features
Digestive enzymes with added pre and probiotics
Can help transition to a new pet food
Supports gut health and eases stomach issues
Powder formula that can be added to food or water
If you are looking for a digestive support that is gentle enough to be used as kitten probiotics, then this product from NaturVet is also great value for money. The formula contains digestive enzymes as well as pro and prebiotics and can be used on cats over the age of six weeks. Designed to support optimum gut health, the enzymes help to break down food for effective absorption while the probiotics contain Bacillus coagulans at 100 million CFU for digestive balance. NaturVet Digestive Enzymes is also one of the best choices if you are moving your kit onto new food or want to ease their flatulence or general tummy troubles. This easy to administer probiotic powder for cats comes complete with NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) quality approval.
6. DrFormulas Nexabiotic for Cats
Key Features
Balanced formula of 23 probiotics
17 billion CFU per capsule
For easing diarrhea and digestive complaints
Safe for kittens as well as senior cats
For cats suffering the unpleasant symptoms of diarrhea, Nexabiotic has created this probiotic to soothe and heal. In capsule form, Nexabiotic is safe for kittens as well as senior cats and is also good choice for stress or parasite-related digestive issues. With 23 strains of live probiotic bacteria and 17 billion CFU per serving, this probiotic knows its job yet with its non-GMO and tasteless formula is kind on the stomach and easy to take. Give as a capsule or empty the powder on their food or water for a fuss-free daily dosage. With consistent use, you could soon see a calmer digestive system in your cat, with regular bowel movements and improved all-round intestinal health. Can also be used to ease the transition to a new cat food or after illness or antibiotic use.
7. Dr. Mercola Complete Probiotics
Key Features
14 strains of live bacteria, 28billion CFU per dose
Non-GMO, gluten and soya free
Powder formula that is easy to administer
Can be used on cats over 2 pounds in weight
With 14 different strains of live bacteria that can be beneficial for pets, these Complete Probiotics from Dr Mercola are an excellent all-round digestive aid for both cats and dogs. Non-GMO as well as gluten and soya free, they are gentle on the digestive system but with 38 billion CFU per serving, are a live bacteria powerhouse when it comes to repopulating the good bugs in your kit’s gut. The bacteria have been selected for optimum benefits for your cat and the formula also supports their immune system and natural detoxification processes. For use with pets over 2 pounds in weight, this good value 90g tub contains up to three months’ supply and is one of the best probiotics for cats, for the money.
8. Hyperbiotics PRO-Pets A Probiotic for Cats
Key Features
Time-release probiotic for general gut health
15x the survival rate than other probiotics
Micro ‘pearl’ tablet that’s easy to swallow
Non-GMO, dairy and gluten free
Using a time-release formula, these Pro-Pets capsules are one of the best probiotics for cats as they steadily deliver their live bacteria into the gut over a longer period of time. Each tablet contains six different cat-specific strains that are slowly released into your pet’s system over 8-10 hours. This means, says Hyperbiotics, that the good bacteria are able to survive stomach acid to reach the intestinal tract in one piece, ready to do their work. And by replenishing all the good bacteria in your pet’s intestine, your cat should experience improved digestive health, as well as a healthier immune system. With a natural beef taste, you can also crush up each pearl tablet to mix with your pet’s food.
9. Jackson Galaxy Cat Probiotics with Enzymes
Key Features
All-natural probiotic and digestive enzyme formula
For diarrhea, gas, digestive issues and allergies
No heat method retains 100% probiotic potency
Chicken liver-flavored; no grain or corn
With a delicious chicken liver taste and all-natural ingredients, this easy to administer powder from Jackson Galaxy is one of the best probiotics for cats suffering from digestive ailments or allergies. Featuring digestive enzymes to relieve bloating, gas and toilet issues, it also contains a potent cat-friendly blend of Lactobacillus Acidophilus, L. Plantarum, L. Brevis, L. Fermentum, and Lactococcus Lactis to provide 2 billion CFU per serving to re-balance their digestive system. Grain, corn and artificial color free, it is also a good choice if your cat suffers from allergies and can help to ease their ‘hot spots’ and skin itching. The probiotic powder is naturally flavored with chicken liver for a delicious taste you cat should love and it is easy to add their daily scoop to their food for fuss-free administration. And, thanks to the ‘no heat, no cook’ approach, Jackson Galaxy Cat Probiotics promises no loss of potency in the final supplement.
Best Probiotic for Cats Buying Guide & FAQ
What Are Probiotics for Cats?
Probiotics are microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. And, just like humans, cats need to keep this balance of good gut bacteria for all-round health and wellbeing. These minute bacteria are naturally occurring and play an essential role in a host of bodily functions, from boosting the immune system to keeping the intestines moving. But when they go off balance, then your kit and their tum will certainly know. Giving a probiotic for cats to your pet can help replenish their natural levels of these friendly bacteria and rebalance their gut.
Things to Consider When Buying Cat Probiotics
Type
You want the best type for your cat as you want them to take them easily and without too much fuss. You can choose from pill, powder, gel and even probiotic-infused treats so if your cat refuses to swallow a capsule, explore the other options available.
Strain
This means the specific types of live microorganisms in the probiotic formula and when it comes to probiotics, live microorganisms are best. Always choose a product formulated for cats so that it works with their feline system – strains from the Bifidobacterium and Enterococcus families tend to work the best with cats.
Colony Forming Units (CFU)
These indicate the number of good bacteria contained in a probiotic for cats. Ten million CFUs is a good minimum level but go for a supplement with a higher level, in the billions if you can.
Added ingredients
Pet probiotics for cats may also have other ingredients such as digestive enzymes, antioxidants, and prebiotics which can help to enhance the overall effectiveness of the probiotic. But be wary of any artificial additives, flavors, or colors, especially if your kit is sensitive or prone to allergies.
Benefits of Probiotics for Cats
From supporting their immune system to improving their digestive health, there are numerous benefits for giving probiotics to your cat. In short, probiotic supplements can help:
- Support a healthy digestive system and reduce symptoms such as diarrhea, gas, and constipation
- Boost the immune system and improve the overall health
- Relieve symptoms of allergies and skin conditions
- Ease conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease
- Help to reduce and manage weight, especially in obese or older cats.
Head over to our review of Cat Food for Weight Loss and Cat Food for Constipation.
How to Give Probiotics to Your Cat
Probiotics can be given for recovery and healing if your cat is experiencing digestion issues or as part of a general health and wellbeing maintenance program. And the way you administer a probiotic is dependent on the type you have chosen. Pill probiotics can be given whole (especially if they are flavored), hidden in a treat or crumbled over your pet’s food while liquid, powder or gel formulations can be easily poured over or added to their meal. Whatever the formulation, always read the packaging for the exact daily dosage and never exceed it.
Our Top Pick
A good all-round supplement for optimum health, our Best Choice is FortiFlora cat probiotic from Purina. With beneficial bacteria Enterococcus faecium to balance gut flora, this meat-flavored probiotic can help cats with diarrhea issues as well as boost their immune system, thanks to the added antioxidants and vitamins. It’s easy to administer too - simply sprinkle one sachet on your pet’s food each day. Great buy for everyday gut health care for your cats.
FAQ
Q: How long does it take for probiotics to work in cats?
As with most pet health supplements, it may take a little time to notice the positive effects, although you could see improvements in your cat’s digestive and overall health after just a few days. However, it will take a little time for the good bacteria to build up within your kit’s gut and support that happy balance.
Q: What is the proper dosage of probiotics for cats?
The dosage will depend on your cat's size and the type of probiotic they will be taking. Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging and, if in any doubt, seek professional advice.
Q: Can I give my cat human probiotics?
Your cat’s tum is a finely tuned digestive machine and while there is no evidence to suggest that human probiotics can harm your pet, vets strongly advise against it. The reason is that cat probiotics are developed specifically for the cat’s system and will work with the microbiomes in their digestive system. Cat probiotics can also have the added advantage of being flavored to appeal to the feline taste buds.
Q: Can probiotics cause diarrhea in cats?
Any new supplement can initially upset your pet’s tum and are not without potential side-effects, although they are rare. To help reduce the risk of diarrhea or other symptoms, always go for the best probiotics you can and ensure they come with the NASC Quality Seal. But if your kit does have an upset tum that doesn’t settle, stop the probiotics immediately and have a chat with your vet.
Sources
- PROBIOTICS MAY HELP PETS - VetMed Univeristy of Illinois
- Good Bugs/Bad Bugs - Cummings Veterinary Medical Center