Whether probiotics will benefit a cat who is vomiting will vary based on the cat's individual situation. Animals react differently to medications and supplements than a person would. Therefore, understanding what probiotics are, as well as how they affect the animal, is critical for best helping your potentially sick cat.
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Probiotics
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Probiotics are considered to be the "good" bacteria that animals---including cats, dogs and humans---need. These types of bacteria aid in many functions of the body, including the digestive tract.
Can They Help?
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In some circumstances, such as with a poor diet or food allergies, probiotics can be beneficial in helping to restore the digestive tract. However, a veterinarian must be consulted to determine if there is a more serious underlying cause of vomiting.
Reasons for Vomiting
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Many cats suffer from food allergies. A veterinarian can run allergy tests to determine if your cat has food allergies. In more serious cases, your cat may be suffering from mild to severe digestive disorders. However, probiotics may still be able to aid in returning the digestive tract to its normal balance.
Diet
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If your cat is on a poor diet, this can contribute to the vomiting. Symptoms of an unhealthy digestive tract include diarrhea, skin problems, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and gas.
Initial Veterinarian Visit
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It's important to see your veterinarian prior to dispensing over-the-counter probiotics for your cat. Formulas for these supplements can vary greatly and your cat may need a specific formula as recommended by your veterinarian.
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