<b>Evaluating the safety and functionality of a novel compound containing prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics in healthy cats and dogs</b>

Background: Although various prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics are available, their safety and efficacy in combination are unknown. Aim: We investigated the safety and functionality of a newly developed supplement, previously unreported in pet animals, containing 26 types of biotic material bacteria (2 prebiotics, 1 probiotic, and 23 postbiotics) in cats and dogs. The biotic materials included were selected based on current evidence from cats and dogs. Methods: A new supplement developed using species tested in cats and dogs was administered. One-way analysis was used for data obtained from 3 cats (7 days of treatment and 7 days of nontreatment), and a parallel, controlled study was performed in 20 dogs (n = 10 each in control and test groups, for 27 days). Results: In cats, no abnormal values were observed in complete blood count or blood chemistry tests, whereas significant decreases in blood glucose and total cholesterol were confirmed (p < 0.05 each). In the feline lymphocyte subset test, significant increases were observed in T and B cells (p < 0.05). A significant difference in fecal pH was observed in the test group (p < 0.01). In addition, 60% (9/15) of the test group had an increase in total organic acids. In dogs, only indole showed a consistent decrease among putrefactive products (p = 0.055). Regarding analyses of intestinal flora from feces using a gene sequencer at the genus level, no changes were observed in cats. Conversely, Lachnospira and Anaeroplasma genera tended to be decreased in the control group but increased by 23.1% and 45%, respectively, in the test group. In addition, Escherichia-Shigella and Tyzzerella genera showed slight increases or changes in the control group but significant decreases in the test group. Regarding the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, an increase in the control group and a decrease in the test group were observed in all cats, whereas no differences were observed in dogs. Conclusion: The supplement is safe for both cats and dogs. Results of comprehensive analyses suggested that the supplement improved the intestinal environment by regulating the gastrointestinal microbiota.