The Gut Microbiome in Pets: Why Diet Matters

When it comes to your dog’s and cat's health, most people think first about exercise, grooming, or veterinarian check-ups.

But what if one of the most powerful influences on your dog or cat’s wellbeing was something invisible? Well, that's exactly the case with our pets; it's their gut microbiome.

What is a Microbiome?

The gut microbiome is the community of trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes (short for microorganism) living in your pet’s digestive system. It's the same for us humans. These microbes aren’t just “along for the ride.” They help digest food, regulate the immune system, and even influence mood and behaviour. A healthy, balanced microbiome means a healthier, happier pet.

Unfortunately, the opposite is also true. When the gut microbiome is out of balance (often called 'dysbiosis), many cats and dogs may experience digestive upset, weakened immunity, skin problems, and/or chronic inflammation.

One of the biggest drivers for this balance for better or worse... is their diet. And yes, the same also applies to humans.

Why Pet Gut Health Matters

The gut is sometimes called the “second brain,” and for good reason. Its reach goes far beyond digestion.

Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: Gut microbes break down food into usable nutrients and vitamins. Without them, even the best diet may not be absorbed fully.

Immune Function: Up to 70% of your pet’s immune cells are contained in the gut. A healthy microbiome strengthens this defense system, while an imbalance leaves pets vulnerable to illness.

Skin and Coat Health: Many allergy-like symptoms, such as itching or hot spots, can be traced back to gut imbalance.

Mood and Behaviour: Microbes influence neurotransmitters like serotonin. Studies show that gut health can affect anxiety, mood, and behaviour in both humans and animals.

Common Signs of Dysbiosis

Here are some signs you can watch out for that may indicate an imbalance (dysbiosis) in your pet's microbiome:

• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Excessive gas or bloating
• Frequent ear or skin infections
• Food sensitivities or allergies
• Low energy, poor recovery after an illness

How Diet Shapes the Microbiome

The food we choose to consume has a big impact on our overall health. Our pets don't get to choose what they eat; we do. But the same remains, the food you choose to feed your pet is also fuel for your pet, and for their microbes.

Most pet food diets found in pet stores and supermarkets are, in fact, highly processed diets (kibble and canned pet foods). They are made with high amounts of starch and fillers needed to form the biscuit-like shape, and these species' inappropriate ingredients in kibble can reduce microbial diversity. This lack of variety creates an environment where harmful bacteria grow and thrive.

Raw, minimally processed diets: Rich in protein, natural fats, and moisture. These nourish beneficial microbes and encourage a diverse microbiome.

Science Says...

A 2024 research study at Ohio State University compared raw-fed dogs with kibble-fed dogs.

The raw-fed group showed:

• Greater gut bacterial diversity.
• Higher levels of beneficial immune markers (IgA and IgG). IgA protects the gut lining from harmful bacteria, and IgG helps the immune system recognise and fight off germs long-term.
• Improved stool quality and consistency.

Another research study from the The DogRisk research group at the University of Helsinki has also published multiple studies showing that raw, minimally processed diets are linked to:

• A healthier gut microbiome.
• Fewer allergies.
• Reduced risk of chronic illnesses compared to dogs eating only ultra-processed pet foods.

What this means for pet parents:

Properly balanced raw diets don’t just improve digestion, they actively support immune strength and long-term wellbeing.

This confirms what many pet parents see in their daily lives: pets on balanced raw diets often have better digestion and vitality.

What are the best foods to naturally support the microbiome of our pets?

Certain foods are potent for overall gut health, and many of them are already part of Furchild’s menu offerings.

Grass-fed Beef Green Tripe: a natural superfood, packed with digestive enzymes, fatty acids, and beneficial bacteria. It helps seed the gut with healthy microbes and supports better digestion and dogs love the taste!

Bone Broth: Rich in collagen and gelatin, bone broth soothes and strengthens the gut lining, helping reduce inflammation. Bone Broth can be served as a flavour bride, meal topper, frozen treat, hydrator for dry foods.

Goat Milk and Goat Milk Kefir: Fermented foods like kefir are loaded with probiotics.

In a 2019 a research study was conducted that concluded healthy adult dogs given kefir for two weeks showed measurable improvements in their gut microbiota including more beneficial lactic acid bacteria and reductions in less helpful bacteria families.

Recipe Rotation: Rotating proteins (chicken, lamb, beef, duck, etc.) through balanced recipes keep microbial diversity high. Each protein has a unique nutrient profile, which feeds different beneficial microbes. The same mindset can apply to species-appropriate meal toppers and treats when fed in moderation.

What causes dysbiosis in dog and cat gut health?

Even with the right diet, certain factors can disrupt the gut and cause an imbalance:

Antibiotics or medications: These wipe out all bacteria, including both harmful and beneficial bacteria alike.

Stress: Pets are sensitive to routine changes, travel, or loud and high-traffic environments. Stress can alter the gut microbiome quickly, and many pet parents are completely unaware.

Low-quality pet food or treats: Foods that contain fillers, additives, and excessive carbohydrates (kibble and biscuit dry foods) feed the “wrong” bacteria.

Aging: Older pets naturally lose microbial diversity, making diet even more important.

What is the best dog food for gut health?

At Furchild, we’ve designed our meals to support gut health naturally for cats and dogs:

Premium Proteins: Human-grade, fresh, antibiotic-free, no added hormones, and nutrient-dense meats are used in all of our complete and balanced raw dog food, raw cat food, and premium freeze-dried treats.

Balanced Recipes: With organic vegetables and fruits, oils, natural fibres, and inulin added for prebiotic support.

Toppers and Hydrators: Goat Milk Kefir, Bone Broth, and Green Tripe are each crafted to boost digestion and microbial balance.

Supplements when needed: Complete Probiotics for dogs, cats, and Probiotics and Enzymes for extra targeted gut support.

By combining our fresh, raw meals with these natural food boosters, dogs and cats receive both balance and variety, the two pillars of a healthy microbiome.

Just remember, your pet’s gut health isn’t just about digestion; it’s about their whole body and quality of life. The right diet can transform their microbiome, leading to stronger immunity, better skin, improved energy, and even happier behaviour.

Explore Furchild’s raw recipes and gut-loving foods and supplements to give your furchildren's microbiome the healthy foundation it deserves.