Research Report: Impact of Metronidazole in Adult Cats and the Effects of Antibiotic-Induced Dysbiosis on Fiber Fermentation
Speaker:
Sara Belchik, MS, PhD candidate
Event date: 6–7 November 2024 Virtual Event
Cats with chronic enteropathy may present with a combination of gastrointestinal (GI) clinical signs, with weight loss being the most common and followed by decreased appetite and vomiting. Although antibiotics may be used to achieve clinical remission, conflicting results exist and few studies have been conducted in cats. However, research has demonstrated the importance of dietary interventions to long-term remission.
Metronidazole, an antibiotic used to treat GI diseases such as chronic enteropathy, can have long-lasting negative effects on the gut microbiome of cats. Identifying alternative strategies for managing cats with GI issues may reduce the need for antibiotic use and help the gut microbiome recover after antibiotic administration.
Sara Belchik presents the findings of her research into the effects of metronidazole on the feline gut microbiota, metabolites, and dietary fiber fermentation.
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