Companion Animals

Companion Animal Microbiome Research

Research into the gut microbiome of companion animals is advancing rapidly, with implications for health, behaviour, and welfare management.

Key Facts

The gut microbiome of dogs and cats contains trillions of bacteria with wide welfare impacts
Diet, antibiotic use, and early life exposure shape microbiome composition profoundly
Research links microbiome diversity to immune function, mood, and chronic disease risk
Probiotics and prebiotics are being evaluated for specific companion animal conditions
Faecal microbiome transplant is an emerging treatment for dysbiosis in dogs

Welfare Considerations

Microbiome science is opening new avenues for understanding and improving companion animal health and welfare. Dietary quality and judicious antibiotic use remain the most evidence-based microbiome welfare interventions.

What You Can Do

Feed your pet a high-quality, varied diet to support microbiome diversity
Use antibiotics only when prescribed and always complete the full course
Discuss probiotics with your vet for animals with digestive or immune conditions
Support research into companion animal microbiome and its welfare implications
Stay informed about emerging microbiome treatments as the science develops