My cat is on doxycycline. Should I give probiotics for his GI health?

Fortiflora is a probiotic that aims to maintain the "good" gut bacteria that is part of the normal intestinal flora. The "good" bacteria can be killed during antibiotic therapy, which can result in diarrhea. The Fortiflora website makes claims about supporting overall immune health, but to my knowledge, maintaining an appropriate bacterial balance in the gut is the main objective. All of that said, Fortiflora can absolutely be helpful during antibiotic therapy, but be sure to put it on Duck's food between his doses of medication rather than simultaneously to allow for maximum efficacy. I hope that all goes well!

You must give special probiotics for cats, human probiotics are just unsuitable for cats and dogs because their bacterial flora is completely different from ours, and yes it is better to give them betwwen meals.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I don't think cats or dogs need probiotics if they are healthy. I do like them for gastro-intestinal issues. I like Purina Fortiflora, you can find it online. Cats really like it. If you want to use probiotics in a healthy cat it won't hurt them. I hope this helps!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Yes, doxycycline is used to treat tick borne diseases. It seems as though the doxycycline is coated in a probiotic. I can't say I've seen this form in the US but it should be fine. Have a good day!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I would get a probiotic like Purina Fortiflora. If the metronidazole isn't working I would ask for tylan and Hill's i/d to help control the diarrhea. The drug can cause GI upset seen as vomiting and diarrhea. You can discuss trying a lower dose with your Vet when they call you back. Lowering the dose will make it less effective against the lymphoma. I wish you the best!

If your kitty will eat her food when you add benefiber, it likely will help. The diarrhea could be a side effect of the antibiotic, so you may want to check with your vet about whether the antibiotic should be stopped or changed or the course finished anyway.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m not sure about side effects in humans but I don’t think anyone was worried about a concern with the brain. There is a concern if the medication gets stuck in Bailey’s throat and that may be why your vet said he can’t lie down. I recommend giving Bailey water after medicating him to help ensure the medication doesn’t stick in the throat. I hope this helps. Good luck and kisses to Bailey!