Companion Animal Microbiome Welfare

The gut microbiome of companion animals significantly affects health, behaviour, and welfare, with diet, antibiotic use, and early-life environment all shaping microbiome composition.

Key Facts

The gut microbiome of dogs and cats influences immune function, behaviour, and disease susceptibility
Antibiotic treatment significantly disrupts the microbiome with welfare implications
Early-life microbiome establishment is shaped by birth method, environment, and maternal microbiome
Probiotic supplementation has evidence for reducing anxiety and GI upset in companion animals
Ultra-processed pet foods may alter microbiome composition compared to whole-food diets

Welfare Considerations

The gut-brain axis — the bidirectional communication pathway between gastrointestinal microbiome and central nervous system — has welfare implications that extend beyond digestive health. Microbiome disruption is associated with increased anxiety, altered pain sensitivity, and immune dysregulation in mammals including companion animals. The welfare implications are significant: a companion animal with a dysregulated microbiome following antibiotic treatment or dietary transition may experience increased anxious behaviour, gut discomfort, and altered social behaviour that affects quality of life. Dietary and lifestyle approaches that support microbiome health represent an emerging welfare tool.

What You Can Do

Feed companion animals high-quality, appropriate diets that support microbiome health
Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a vet and support microbiome recovery afterwards
Discuss probiotic options with your vet following antibiotic treatment
Support research into companion animal microbiome welfare through veterinary schools