Effects of Supplementation with Bifidobacterium Animalis Subsp. Lactis CECT 8145 -In Live Probiotic and Heat-Treated Postbiotic Form—on Fecal Metabolites, Fecal Microbiota, Blood Metabolites and Systemic Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation, and White Blood Cell Gene Expression of Adult Cats

Lay Summary This study examined the effects of probiotics and postbiotics on the health of adult cats over 90 days. Probiotics are live microorganisms, while postbiotics are their metabolic byproducts, and both should offer a health benefit, usually associated to gut health. Thirty-six cats were randomly assigned to receive a control diet with a placebo, probiotics, or postbiotics. Results indicated no change in body weight across groups. The abundance of beneficial gut bacteria, particularly Bifidobacterium animalis, increased in the probiotic group over time. Overall, the study concluded that both probiotics and postbiotics were safe and well-tolerated by the cats during the supplemental period, with potential beneficial effects on gut health. These findings contribute to understanding the potential role of probiotics and postbiotics in promoting feline health and warrant further investigation.