Probiotics and benebac powder

Hi,

I am anticipating the adoption of a ragdoll kitten.  The breeder has told me to get probiotics and benebac powder.  Even tho I have had cats all my life I have never heard of giving a cat these supplements. 

Could someone explain what they are for and when you would need them?

thx

I am searching the forums, esp the nutrition forum and have gotten many answers already.

Probiotics are very good for gut health and general immune boosting. I would guess the breeder is trying to prevent the kitten from having diarrhea due to the stress of moving to a new home.

Probiotics supply beneficial bacteria to the gut. They are used especially for digestive problems like diarrhea, constipation, gas, or particularly foul smelling waste. The gut is theorized to support about 70% of the immune system, though, so many pet owners give their pets probiotics on a regular basis. Many people without any particular health concern take probiotics on a regular basis, too, as part of their health regimen for general well being.

What is the thought on whether the probiotics used should be feline-specific?

tdonline said:

 
What is the thought on whether the probiotics used should be feline-specific?

Click to expand...

I asked that question last year and spawned a 70+ post thread:

http://www.thecatsite.com/t/262587/probiotics-search-human-grade-and-cfus

Thanks!