The gut microbiome influences behavior, immunity, and mood in companion animals as in humans. Emerging research is reshaping our understanding of diet, stress, and mental health in dogs and cats.
The gut-brain axis in companion animals is an emerging welfare frontier. Behavioral problems including anxiety and aggression may have a microbiome component that responds to nutritional interventions. This does not replace behavioral therapy but adds a biological dimension to welfare management. High-quality, diverse diets that support microbiome health may improve behavioral welfare outcomes alongside direct interventions.