A supplement containing ADM’s postbiotic heat-treated Bifidobacterium longum CECT 7347 (Priome Gut Health) and Fibersol-2, a soluble dietary fiber, improved certain measures of intestinal health in adult cats before and after a diet change, in a clinical study published in Animals.

Priome has been evidenced to enhance the balance of strains in the gut microbiome and strengthen measures of intestinal barrier function during dietary changes in previous studies. Fibersol-2 is associated with increases in beneficial bacteria, lower glycemic index of foods, reduced body fat, and improved adaptation to high-protein diets with better odor control.  

“We understand the vital role gut health plays in pets’ overall well-being, particularly during dietary changes. Insights from this study will open new doors for creating innovative pet food solutions that enhance digestive health and nutritional balance,” said Mark Lotsch, president of global health and wellness at ADM.

The study was a collaboration between ADM’s R&D department and China Agricultural University. It enrolled 24 cats at the Pet Nutrition Research Center in Beijing over a period of 28 days. Cats were split into two groups, each containing six male and six female cats. For the first two weeks, the cats were fed a low-protein diet, and one group received the post/prebiotic supplement. From day 15 to 28, the groups each switched to a high-protein diet and the treated group continued to receive the same supplement.

Cats in the treatment group had significant improvements in serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a marker of intestinal permeability, before and after the diet change. After the diet change, the treated cats had greater secretary immunoglobulin A compared to the control group, indicating enhanced immune function. Beneficial changes in the microbiome were also observed, such as an increased abundance of Blautia, and increased microbial beta-diversity.

While both groups saw an increase in fecal pH, the treatment group had a notably lower pH increase than the control group. This was possibly due to greater Blautia abundance, as this bacteria produces organic acids like lactic acid which helps to regulate pH levels.