If you're wondering which probiotics are the best value for your pet, you've come to the right place. If you're newly in the market for probiotics, you're probably highly confused by now. The array of choices on these supplements is vast.
An internet search of pet probiotic brands will bring up probiotic chews, capsules, powders, and even syringes. Likewise, you'll discover big canisters to small bottles, and everything in between.
Even worse, human probiotic brands jockey for position when pet owners are searching for the best probiotic for their dog or cat. But, what does your specific pet actually need?
In short, how can one weed through the clutter to find the best pet probiotic at the best value? The goal of this article is to shed some light on some key attributes of probiotic products to help you choose.
Comparing Value of Product Sizes
First, when it comes to probiotics, bigger is not always better. Picking the largest quantity of probiotic volume is a common mistake that many people make when comparing product value. Keep in mind, probiotics are living organisms and have a gradual die-off, so you only want to buy the amount you can reasonably go through in about 3 to 6 months. Simply put, if you have a large dog or multiple pets, buy a large canister of probiotics. Similarly, if you need to provide therapeutic doses to your pet, a larger canister may be in order. In contrast, if you have a tiny dog or cat, buy a small canister of probiotics for wellness.
Comparing the Value of Ingredients
Next, instead of comparing the volume or weight numbers, focus in on the following checklist:
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Ingredients:
When it comes to ingredients, check for added flavors, oils, or dairy or carbohydrate fillers. We consider extra ingredients, such as maltodextrin, milk powders, animal digest, or byproduct meals unacceptable. It is not uncommon to see these extra ingredients in probiotics because bacteria is microscopic. Manufacturers often "bulk up" their product so it is perceived as a better value. As a result, you just get a lot more of what your pet absolutely does not need. -
CFU Totals: (Colony Forming Units)
From our research, we believe your pet needs about 2-4 billion CFU per day for wellness maintenance. For pets with diarrhea or GI issues, up to 10 billion CFU per day may be recommended. Use this as a guide when selecting the best probiotic for your pet. As we've noticed, pet probiotics range from 1 million CFU to 50 billion CFU per serving... quite a disparity! 1 Million CFU is not enough, and a 50 billion CFU probiotic is likely a waste of money. The best value probiotic for you dogs and cats should be in line with these numbers. -
Species Total:
Lastly, when it comes to species of bacteria, it helps to understand that these live organisms need harmonious pairing. When colonized in the gut, probiotics give-in to "peer pressure" like a group of micro-teenagers. You'll want a good group that work well together. Conversely, a giant, random group of species may not bring the best value or benefit. Keep these few points in mind.
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- Lesser value species will dilute the most effective species of bacteria.
- Some species may compete for colonization, or "translocate" other bacteria in the body rendering them pathogenic.
- Only about 8 species of probiotics are actually researched for pet benefit.
Why Probiotic Miracle® is the Best Value for Your Pet
We believe Probiotic Miracle® is not only the best product for your pet, but it also offers the most value.
Related: Understanding Probiotics for Pets: CFU, Species, and Dosage Explained