The gut microbiome of companion animals significantly affects their health and welfare — and diet, antibiotic use, and stress all influence microbiome composition.
Companion animal microbiome health is an emerging area that connects diet, stress, antibiotic stewardship, and welfare outcomes. Microbiome disruption through highly processed diets, inappropriate antibiotic use, and chronic stress compromises immune function and contributes to chronic diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, and behavioral problems. Welfare-conscious pet ownership increasingly considers microbiome health as part of preventive care — through appropriate diet diversity, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, and managing chronic stress sources. The science is still developing but points toward significant welfare benefits from microbiome-conscious care.