What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?

When a dog or cat has lots of friendly bacteria in its intestinal tract, the animal tends to have a robust immune response. For this reason, many pet food manufacturers now add good bacteria, called probiotics, to their products. These friendly microbes improve digestion efficiency, and enhance the way your pet's body absorbs and uses nutrients.

By contrast, prebiotics are certain types of non-digestible fiber, such as beet pulp and chicory root, which are added to many pet foods. Because such fibers do not break down during the digestive process, they harbor and protect good bacteria in the intestine. It's believed that, together, prebiotics and probiotics can help your pet's immune system stay strong and vigorous.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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