Fecal Microbiota Transplant

Fecal Microbiota Transplants

Fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs) are an emerging treatment that involves transferring healthy gut bacteria from a donor to a recipient pet’s gastrointestinal system. This procedure holds promise for improving the digestive health of dogs and cats by restoring the balance of their gut microbiome.

What is a Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT)?
A FMT involves collecting fecal matter from a healthy donor animal, processing it, and then transferring the beneficial gut bacteria to the recipient pet. The transplantation can occur via clean oral capsules or via an enema.

How was a FMT donor selected?
Not all feces is created equally. Our donor underwent extensive testing to make sure it is the “right” feces. The screening process included a complete physical exam, bloodwork, review of the donor’s medical history, and extensive fecal testing to ensure the feces was free of:

• Hookworm
• Roundworm
• Whipworm
• Giardia
• Cryptosporidium
• Other parasites
• Salmonella
• Campylobacter
• Canine circovirus
• Canine distemper virus
• Canine enteric coronavirus
• Canine parvovirus
• Clostridium difficile toxins
• Clostridium perfringens toxins

A dysbiosis index (DI) was also performed on the feces to ensure the right mix of bacteria are available in the feces.

Benefits of FMTs for Dogs and Cats:
Restoring Gut Health: FMTs help rebalance the gut microbiome, which plays a vital role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall immune function.
Resolving Digestive Disorders: FMTs have shown promising results in treating conditions like acute diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Clostridium induced diarrhea, and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Boosting Immunity: A healthy gut microbiome enhances the immune system, potentially reducing the risk of allergies and certain infections.

Considerations for Pet Owners:
Veterinary Supervision: FMTs should only be performed under the guidance of a qualified veterinarian to ensure safety and proper execution.
Donor Selection: Donors must be healthy animals with a diverse and well-balanced gut microbiome. Careful screening is necessary to minimize the risk of transmitting pathogens or undesirable traits.
Procedure Administration: FMTs can be administered through various methods, and the veterinarian will discuss with you best the  approach based on the pet’s condition and the ability to deliver medications.
Potential Risks: Although FMTs are generally considered safe, there is a slight risk of abdominal discomfort. 

Fecal microbiota transplants offer a promising treatment for dogs struggling with various digestive disorders and gut imbalances. By restoring a healthy balance of gut bacteria, FMTs can help improve digestion, boost the immune system, and support overall well-being. We are proud to offer this cutting edge treatment to reduce our need for antibiotics and restore health naturally.