Companion Animals

Feline Gut Microbiome and Welfare

The feline gut microbiome is distinct from that of dogs due to cats' obligate carnivore status, and plays a critical role in immune function, digestion, and behaviour.

Key Facts

Cats are obligate carnivores with a microbiome adapted to high protein diets
Dietary changes cause significant microbiome disruption in cats
Feline gut microbiome research is less advanced than canine research
Inflammatory bowel disease in cats is linked to microbiome dysbiosis
Highly digestible protein sources support microbiome stability in cats

Welfare Considerations

Abrupt dietary changes cause microbiome disruption and gastrointestinal upset in cats. Long-term antibiotic use damages the feline gut microbiome with lasting welfare consequences. Prescription gastrointestinal diets formulated to support microbiome recovery benefit cats with inflammatory gut disease.

What You Can Do

Change cat diets gradually over 7-14 days to minimise disruption
Use antibiotics in cats only when genuinely necessary
Consult your vet about probiotic use after antibiotic treatment
Support research into feline gut health and welfare