Cat VITALITY

Prebiotics
A good way to promote healthy digestion

THE DIGESTIVE TRACT OF YOUR CAT is a vital component of her wellbeing. Almost 70 percent of a cat’s immune system is in the digestive tract, so it is important it stays healthy.

Cats have a very sensitive digestive tract. Food changes, stress or medications can result in diarrhea or vomitting.

Dr. Amy Dicke, a technical service veterinarian, says hair can cause digestive upsets as well. “Cats are excellent self-groomers. Upset often occurs when hair is ingested, especially in cats with long coats or those shedding excessively.”

With all the issues that can arise with your cat’s digestive system, it is important to help maintain your cat’s digestive health. One way to assist is to try adding prebiotics to her diet.

PREDBIOTICS
Dr. Dicke explains, “The gut microflora, which includes beneficial and potentially harmful bacteria, helps maintain a healthy intestinal tract and acts as a barrier against toxins and viruses. It breaks down nutrients and also ferments fibres that are not digested in the upper digestive tract. This helps inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.

“A prebiotic is a fibre that can positively balance the gut microflora and enhance the function of the gut and systemic immune system.”

FOS (fructooligosaccharides) is an example of a prebiotic nutritional fibre. These fibres promote the growth of good bacteria in the digestive tract and can be found in some cat foods.

SYMPTOMS
There are several signs to look for when it comes to a cat’s digestive troubles.

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Constipation

If your cat is exhibiting one or more of these signs, a trip to the veterinarian is a good idea.