Effects of <i>L. reuteri</i> NBF 2 DSM 32264 Consumption on the Body Weight, Body Condition Score, Fecal Parameters, and Intestinal Microbiota of Healthy Persian Cats

oleh: Benedetta BelĂ , Daniele Di Simone, Giulia Pignataro, Isa Fusaro, Alessandro Gramenzi

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: MDPI AG 2024-02-01

Deskripsi

In the literature, there are several studies showing the effects of different probiotic administrations in dogs, while there is limited information about their effects in cats. Furthermore, there are no studies that examined the effects of the probiotic strain <i>Lactobacillus reuteri</i> on cats’ welfare, especially considering a specific breed. In this study, the effects of <i>L. reuteri</i> NBF 2 DSM 32264 on body weight, body condition score (BCS), and fecal parameters (fecal score and fecal moisture) of healthy Persian cats were assessed; additionally, a microbiological analysis was carried out to quantify bacterial species like <i>Escherichia coli</i> (for the total coliform count) and Lactobacilli. The administration of <i>L. reuteri</i> NBF 2 DSM 32264 showed no alteration in the body weight and body condition score of Persian cats. The fecal moisture decreased at the end of the study and the values of fecal score were improved. Moreover, at the end of the study period, an increase in <i>Lactobacilli</i> (<i>p</i> > 0.001) was observed. The data collected report the ability of <i>L. reuteri</i> NBF 2 DSM 32264 to improve fecal quality parameters in healthy adult Persian cats, leading to an increase in <i>Lactobacilli</i> and a reduction in total coliforms.