Effect of a feed supplement containing probiotics on fecal score and clinical parameters in dogs with chronic kidney disease and intestinal disorders: A pilot study

Abstract

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs is often accompanied by dysbiosis and abnormal gut microbiota composition, leading to gastrointestinal issues. Probiotics, including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Enterococcus faecium, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, have shown promise in maintaining a healthy gut microbiota in both healthy and CKD animals.

Aim: This pilot double-blinded, randomized controlled study aimed to assess the effects of a feed supplement containing these probiotics on clinical parameters and fecal consistency in dogs with CKD and intestinal disorders.

Methods: Eight dogs with CKD were randomly assigned to receive the supplement (TRT, n = 4) or placebo (CTR, n = 4) alongside a renal commercial complete dietetic feed and another supplement specific for CKD for 50 days. Clinical parameters, such as body condition score and fecal score, were regularly monitored.

Results: The dogs in the TRT group exhibited improvements in fecal consistency and clinical parameters compared with the CTR group.

Conclusion: The feed supplement under investigation seems beneficial for improving clinical conditions, gut health, and stool quality in dogs with CKD. Future studies with larger sample sizes and microbiota analyses are needed to gain a better understanding of the potential benefits of this supplement in managing CKD in dogs.

Keywords: Beneficial bacteria; CKD; Canine; Gut; Renal disease; Stool texture.

Fig. 1.. Median values of the (FS) (range 1 to 7) for the two groups (treated : TRT and control: –CTR) at different time points (T0–T5).

Fig. 2.. Images of fecal samples at different time points (T0 to T5) in a dog treated with a supplemented diet (Patient 1) compared to another dog that received the placebo (Patient 5).