A change in diet, gastrointestinal diseases, taking antibiotics, stress and other negative factors inevitably lead to changes in the intestinal microbiota in cats. An imbalance of beneficial and pathogenic microorganisms leads to digestive disorders, which causes constipation or diarrhea in pets. Fortiflora for cats (Fortiflora Purina) is intended to restore normal intestinal microflora and strengthen the immune system. It is a food additive with a probiotic. Not a medicine.
Composition and features
The unique formula of the dietary supplement was developed by the French company Purina. Its products are known to most pet owners because the company produces pet food. The product is adapted for the body of cats (Fortiflora for dogs is also available for sale). This results in high efficiency.
Fortiflora is produced in powder form, which is packaged in polymer bags. Each sachet contains 1 gram of product - the daily dose, which is very convenient to use. There is no need to measure the powder with spoons or other improvised objects. A cardboard box holds 30 sachets, but in most pharmacies they are sold individually, so you can purchase the required quantity.
The basis of the product is the fermented milk bacteria Enterococcus faecium SF 68. Live bacteria are placed in special microcapsules. Due to this, they begin to act only when they enter the gastrointestinal tract. Also includes:
- processed meat products;
- sodium chloride;
- manganese proteinate;
- ferrous sulfate;
- vitamin C and E;
- taurine and other components.
In addition to live bacteria, which help restore intestinal microflora, the product contains ash, fiber, vitamins, iodine, selenium, iron and other minerals. 50% of the nutritional value comes from proteins, another 15% is from fats.
How it works
The digestive system plays an important role in the body - it ensures the “delivery” of nutrients and nutrients. If the gastrointestinal tract is malfunctioning, food absorption deteriorates, immunity decreases, and a lack of minerals, proteins and other substances can negatively affect the functioning of other organs and systems. Fortiflora allows you to restore the intestinal microflora, thereby improving its functioning. Live bacteria are able to displace harmful microorganisms.
The additive has the following effect on the animal’s body:
- restores intestinal microflora after taking an antibiotic or other factors;
- has an antibacterial effect, helps cope with infections;
- normalizes the functioning of the entire digestive system;
- improves the absorption of nutrients from food;
- increases the body's resistance to stress and other negative factors;
- helps get rid of indigestion and other problems with the digestive system.
Note! There are no toxic or harmful substances in the composition, only natural ingredients, so Fortiflora can be used for cats with almost no restrictions.
Analogues of the drug
There are no complete analogues. But there are a number of similar drugs. I have listed the most popular ones to replace FortiFlora with:
| Analogue | Differences | average cost |
| Pro-Colin | A combined drug containing the probiotic Enterococcus faecium and the prebiotic Preplex. Also supplemented with kaolin and pectin - protect the intestinal mucosa. Available in the form of a paste, packaged in dispensing syringes of 15, 30 and 60 ml. | 800 rub. for 15 ml. |
| Kanigest | The composition and release form is similar to Pro-Colin. Also contains a complex of pro- and prebiotics with kaolin and pectin. It is most often used in kittens during the period of diet change, growth, and vaccination. | 850 rub. for 15 ml. |
| Evitalia Vet | A preparation based on skimmed milk powder. Contains probiotic cultures of living cells of lactic acid and propionic acid bacteria, as well as prebiotics inulin and lactulose. Promotes the growth and development of normal intestinal microflora. | 520 rub. for 30 tablets. |
| Lactobifid | Russian drug based on skimmed milk powder. Contains bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, streptococci. Restores the balance of intestinal microflora, prevents the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms, stimulates the immune system. | 85 rub. for 20 tablets. |
| Lactoferon | Another feed additive from. In addition to the complex of bifidobacteria, lactobacilli and streptococci, it includes a phytocomplex of medicinal herbal extracts. Additionally, it has a hepatoprotective effect, neutralizes pathogenic microflora not only in the intestines, but also in the lungs, nasopharynx, and genitourinary system. | 95 rub. for 20 tablets. |
| Vetom | Probiotic, contains bacteria Bacillus subtilis DSM. Available in the form of powder, capsules, drops. Normalizes intestinal function by secreting antibiotic-like substances, enzymes and biologically active substances by BS bacteria. Additionally, it increases dogs' resistance to viral and bacterial infections. | 720 rub. per package of 50 capsules, 500 g of powder or 10 ml of drops. |
Price
A significant disadvantage of using Fortiflora for cats is its rather high price. The cost of a cardboard package with 30 sachets ranges from 1200 to 1400 rubles. For comparison, purchasing similar domestic probiotics will cost only a couple of hundred rubles. You can purchase a feed additive at any pet store or veterinary pharmacy, including those operating online, and the easiest way is to order the drug through an online store
You can now view the current price of the drug and buy it right here from Yandex Market with fast delivery:
general description
Lactobifadol is a Russian product. The drug is produced in a cardboard package with a picture of a cat, inside of which there is a vacuum plastic bag with the drug. It has the appearance of a homogeneous free-flowing powder, the color of which can vary from white to light brown. The composition does not contain stabilizers, preservatives, dyes, GMOs and hormonal components, antibiotics and flavoring additives.
Important! It is strictly not recommended to use a drug with a violation of the integrity or tightness of the packaging, without appropriate markings on the packages, with a changed consistency or color, or with the presence of foreign impurities!
The shelf life of the probiotic in original packaging is 12 months at a temperature of 2-10°C or 3 months at room temperature. For storage, choose a dry place, protected from direct sunlight, out of reach of children and pets.
Indications for use
According to the instructions, Fortiflor is recommended to be given to cats for disorders of the gastrointestinal tract:
- for indigestion;
- with gastroenteritis;
- with dysbacteriosis;
- for other pathologies.
Often, a feed additive for chronic and acute diseases of the digestive system is combined with medications to achieve maximum effectiveness. It is recommended to use it during treatment with antibiotics or after completing a course, as well as in cases of microflora imbalance caused by worms or other factors.
Changing the diet or weaning kittens can cause serious intestinal problems, which usually manifest as poor stool quality, irregularity, or diarrhea. In this case, Fortiflora will also help normalize the functioning of the digestive system. The product can also be used for preventive purposes when changing food or in stressful situations:
- during transportation;
- when guests arrive;
- upon departure of the owner;
- when visiting a veterinary clinic;
- when participating in competitions, etc.
The feed additive can be used for preventive purposes for emaciated or severely ill animals. Good functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is the key to a quick recovery for your pet, since the body receives from food the maximum of useful substances that are involved in various physiological processes. In addition, immunity, the body’s ability to resist harmful microorganisms, is significantly increased.
Characteristics of Fortiflora
This is a probiotic dietary supplement for pets. It contains beneficial microorganisms that have the following properties:
- Produce antibodies to viruses of different types. This improves the functioning of the immune system.
- Neutralize toxins that are released by harmful microorganisms that enter the dog's digestive system.
- Stop the proliferation of pathogenic flora, preventing it from attaching to the intestinal mucosa.
- Promote the synthesis of B vitamins. They participate in all metabolic processes occurring in the body of animals.
The feed additive can be used from the first days of a dog's life. But if they are fed with mother's milk, then there is no need to use Fortiflora. When, for some reason, puppies are fed artificially, it makes sense to use a probiotic if they experience growth retardation, digestive disorders, and manifestations of dysbacteriosis.
In addition to the probiotic itself - lactobacilli Enterococcus faecium SF68 - the drug contains other components that are useful for dogs:
- Vitamin C.
This is a powerful antioxidant that protects the dog’s body from pathogens. The substance protects animals from colds, strengthens connective tissue and the walls of blood vessels. - Vitamin E.
It protects cells from the destructive effects of free radicals, reduces the rate of blood clotting in dogs, and stimulates the function of the gonads. Vitamin E prevents degenerative changes in muscles and takes part in the synthesis of enzymes. - Provitamin A
binds oxygen atoms and helps strengthen the immune system. It maintains visual acuity of dogs, improves the condition of their coat and mucous membranes. Provitamin A accelerates the regeneration of muscle and bone tissue in animals. - Zinc proteinate
. The substance takes part in the synthesis of proteins, stimulates the formation of lymphocytes that block foreign bodies in the body of dogs. The element takes part in the synthesis of insulin, thereby preventing the development of diabetes. Zinc also improves the absorption of vitamin A, thereby preventing the formation of eye cataracts. - Sodium chloride and selenite.
Substances transport glucose and amino acids inside the cells of the canine body and take part in the secretion of gastric juice. - Iron sulfate.
It is a source of ferric iron, a component of hemoglobin. This component binds oxygen and transports it to organs and tissues. - Copper.
It maintains the color of the animal's coat and regulates their reproductive function. - Calcium iodate.
Serves as a source of iodine necessary to support the functioning of the thyroid gland.
How to use
The nutritional supplement is easy to use. The contents of one package must be sprinkled onto the food. The product can be used together with dry or wet food, natural food. The only condition is that the food cannot be subjected to heat treatment, since living bacteria will die and the use of Fortiflora will be ineffective.
Note! The powder should be added to food immediately before feeding the animal.
The product should be given once a day. The daily dose is one sachet, and the weight and age of the animal do not matter. Some experts recommend dividing the contents of one sachet into 2-3 doses when using the product for kittens, but this is not necessary.
The manufacturer does not make recommendations regarding the time of administration, so the powder can be used both in the morning and in the evening. The duration of use is determined in each case individually. For pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, the course of treatment continues until the symptoms disappear. If Fortiflora is used to prevent disorders of the digestive system in stressful situations, it should be given several days before the expected event and then continue the course for several more days.
Since it contains meat, the additive has a characteristic odor. The smell of meat stimulates the animal's appetite. Even weakened animals eat it without problems.
Overdose
Cases of negative reactions with a significant increase in the rate of the mixture practically do not occur. There are some mentions of allergic reactions. To prevent unpleasant manifestations, you need to give the food supplement according to the instructions, after consulting a veterinarian.
How long does the treatment last?
The supplement with lactobacilli FortiFlora is suitable for long-term use. The initial course is 1 month; as prescribed by the veterinarian, the use of the product is extended or the course is repeated at a certain interval. A visit to the veterinary clinic for a possible increase in the duration of the course of treatment is mandatory.
Contraindications and side effects
Since the food additive contains only natural ingredients, it can be given to both very young kittens and old pets. The product can be used for pregnant and lactating females. The instructions indicate that a contraindication can only be an allergy to individual components caused by intolerance to them.
The powder does not cause side effects, but if you are allergic to the components, skin rashes, itching or other problems may appear, and diarrhea may increase. Although this is extremely rare.
Advantages and disadvantages
A probiotic has many advantages:
- Convenient packaging. One sachet is for one dose.
- Simple dosage and use. The dosage for adult pets and kittens is no different - one sachet. Before use, the powder does not need to be diluted or other manipulations performed. Just sprinkle and feed to the animal.
- Safety. The supplement is made from natural ingredients and has no contraindications.
- Pleasant smell and taste. Thanks to the meaty aroma, pets eat the powder with food without problems, sometimes without even noticing.
- High efficiency. The results of use are usually visible already on the second or third day.
- Not addictive. For this reason, it can be used for a long period.
Owner reviews
Ksenia, owner of a 12-year-old cat:
“My cat started vomiting in the morning for no apparent reason. A veterinarian I know advised me to give Fortiflora. After just a couple of days the urge stopped. The cat's appetite has improved, stools have become regular and of normal consistency, and the pet itself has become more active and playful. Among the advantages, I would like to note the ease of use. I just sprinkled the powder on the food and Tom ate it all.”
Ekaterina, owner of a Persian cat:
“When our beauty became very ill, a course of antibiotics was prescribed for treatment. To neutralize their negative effects on the intestines, FortiFlora was prescribed. I read a lot of positive reviews about the probiotic online, but I was not personally impressed. Firstly, the cat didn't like the taste at all. She ate without appetite, and sometimes refused altogether. Secondly, even a month of use did not produce results. The animal still has problems with stool. “As a result, we turned to another doctor and started using a completely different and, most importantly, effective drug.”
