The Best Probiotics for Ragdoll Cats
While Ragdolls are known for their gorgeous appearance and lovable personalities, they can sometimes have sensitive stomachs that require a little extra attention. One of the best ways to support your Ragdoll’s digestive system and overall well-being is to incorporate probiotics into their daily routine. Whether your Ragdoll Cat or Ragdoll Kitten is recovering from antibiotic use or dealing with recurrent loose stools, probiotics can make a noticeable difference for their digestive health. In this article, I will explain why probiotics are beneficial for Ragdoll cats and share my top 3 probiotic recommendations based on personal experience.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms, typically bacteria or yeast, that add beneficial microbes to the gut flora. They are used to prevent and treat gut dysbiosis, an overabundance of harmful microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract. Probiotics help to maintain a healthy balance in the gut microbiome.
The Benefits of Probiotics for Ragdoll Cats
Probiotics can offer a wide range of positive effects to your Ragdoll’s health. Here are some of the main ways your Ragdoll can benefit from probiotic use.
Improved Digestion: Ragdolls, like all cats, can sometimes struggle with loose stools, diarrhea and constipation. Probiotics help to balance their gut bacteria and improve the overall digestive process.
Enhanced Immune Function: The gastrointestinal system and immune system are closely intertwined, with research now showing the majority of the immune system is located in the gut. So when you strengthen your Ragdoll’s digestive system, you are improving their immunity, leaving them less susceptible to viruses, infections and illnesses.
Reduced Hairballs: Because Ragdolls Shed their long beautiful coats while grooming themselves, they are more likely to deal with hairballs. Since probiotics improve digestion, they can aid with the passage of hairballs through the intestinal tract.
Support from Antibiotic Use: While antibiotics target harmful bacteria in the digestive system, they can also kill healthy gut flora. If your Ragdoll has recently been on antibiotics, then probiotics can help repopulate their beneficial gut bacteria and restore their digestive balance.
Overall Health: A healthy gut means a healthy cat! Probiotics can contribute to the overall well-being of your Ragdoll, preventing Ragdoll Health Issues and even enhancing mood and energy levels.
Best Probiotic Strains for Ragdoll Cats
When selecting probiotics for your Ragdoll, it is essential to choose the right strains that offers targeted benefits for their digestive health. Here are some of the most effective probiotics strains for felines.
Saccharomyces Boulardii: This is a probiotic yeast that was originally isolated from the Lychee fruit in the 1920s. S. Boulardii is one of the most studied probiotics in the world and has been shown to effectively reduce symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, such as recurrent diarrhea.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus: This is one of the most common probiotic strains used for felines. L. Acidophilus is a beneficial bacteria that is known to support overall gut health since it naturally occurs in the digestive systems of dogs and cats.
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus: This probiotic strain helps to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. L. Rhamnosus is a healthy gut bacteria that can help with digestive issues such as diarrhea and bloating by reducing inflammation in the gut.
Bifidobacterium Animalis: This is another probiotic strain that promotes healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. B. Animalis is particularly useful for Ragdolls dealing with constipation or irregular stools.
Streptococcus Thermophilus: Once again, this is a beneficial probiotic bacteria strain that supports gut health in felines. S. Thermophilus reduces digestive discomfort and can improve the effectiveness of other probiotic strains in the gut.
Top 3 Probiotic Formulas for Ragdoll Cats
As a Ragdoll cat breeder at Pastel Ragdolls, these are my top 3 probiotic recommendations. I've personally used all 3 of these with my own Ragdolls, so I can speak from firsthand experience. Over the years of breeding, I've certainly encountered my fair share of sensitive tummies, and these probiotics have consistently helped to improve digestion and firm up stools. Also, all 3 can easily be purchased online, without the need for a vet prescription. I recommend rotating through different probiotic strains to strengthen and diversify your cat’s gut microbiome.
1. Jarrow Formulas Saccharomyces Boulardii + MOS
Why it’s Great for Ragdolls: S. Boulardii is frequently used in cats to manage episodes of recurrent diarrhea and loose stools, whether the diarrhea is stress-induced or antibiotic-related. This specific formula combines S. Boulardii with MOS, so you also get the added benefit of a prebiotic as well.
How to Use: The capsules are large so I recommend opening them up and sprinkling 1/2 - 1 full capsule on wet or dry food daily.
2. FERA Organics Probiotics + Prebiotics Blend
Why it’s Great for Ragdolls: This is an organic blend of 12 powerful probiotic + prebiotic strains that helps to improve digestion and replenish good gut bacteria.
How to Use: Following the directions on the jar, sprinkle 1/2 scoop on wet or dry food daily.
3. Nexabiotic Probiotics for Cats
Why it’s Great for Ragdolls: This is a blend of 23 probiotic strains that diversify the GI system with healthy bacteria.
How to Use: These capsules are smaller than other brands. Administer 1 full capsule using a pill popper or sprinkling onto wet or dry food daily.
A Healhy Belly, A Happy Cat
Probiotics can be a valuable addition to your Ragdoll’s routine, helping to support their digestive health, improving their immune function and reducing other issues like hairballs. Whether you’re dealing with a sensitive stomach or just wanting to boost your Ragdoll’s overall well-being, the probiotics listed above are excellent choices for your furry companion.
If you don’t notice enough improvement from probiotics, consider trying out a Raw Diet instead. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before adding any new supplement into your Ragdoll’s routine, and watch as your kitty enjoys the benefits of a healthy gut!