The importance of fibre in animal nutrition

Dietary fibre is an essential component in the diet of animals, especially dogs and cats. In this article, we explore its role in the intestinal health and immune system of our little friends, as well as the positive influence of prebiotics in this process.

Fibre in Animal Nutrition

Dietary fibre is the part of plant-based foods that resists digestion and absorption in the small intestine of animals. Instead of being absorbed, fibre travels to the large intestine, where it can undergo partial or complete fermentation. This characteristic makes it an essential element in the diet of our furry friends.

Digestion Benefits

One of the main roles of fibre in animal nutrition is to regulate intestinal transit. It helps prevent congestion, a common problem in dogs and cats. It also helps to maintain a balanced intestinal microflora, which is essential for healthy digestion.

Disease Control

The addition of fibre to the diet of our furry friends can also help in the prevention of chronic diseases. Studies have shown that a diet rich in fibre can be beneficial in the treatment of conditions such as diabetes mellitus, obesity and colon cancer in animals.

Prebiotics in Animal Nutrition

Within the fibre category, two types of prebiotics deserve special attention: FOS and MOS.

FOS prebiotics

Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are fermentable fibres that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the large intestine of our furry friends, such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. This not only promotes intestinal health, but also inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella and Clostridium. These effects contribute to the strengthening of the immune system and the synthesis of essential vitamins.

MOS prebiotics

Mannanoligosaccharides (MOS) are non-fermentable fibres that have a dual function in the digestive system of animals. Primarily, they block the growth of potentially harmful bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella by occupying their binding sites on the intestinal mucosa. In addition, they improve the effectiveness of our friends immune system at the local level by blocking the colonisation and proliferation of these bacteria.

Promoting Intestinal Health and the Immune System with Picart

All Picart ranges, including Select Dog, Select Cat and Nutribest, are formulated with the correct presence of MOS prebiotics. This not only improves the intestinal health of our companions, but also helps to develop and maintain a strong immune system.

In addition, the Select DIET range is specially enriched with MOS and FOS prebiotics. This unique formula is designed to promote optimal dog and cat health, boosting their immune system and maintaining healthy digestion.

In summary, fibre in animal nutrition plays a crucial role in intestinal health and the prevention of chronic diseases. Prebiotics FOS and MOS are valuable allies that contribute to the health and well-being of our furry friends. Choosing quality foods, like the ones we make at Picart, ensures that our furry friends receive the nutrition they need for a long and healthy life.