Purina Fortiflora For Dogs-Side Effects

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In this guide, we will review the best probiotics for dogs in 2022 and cover the entire topic to answer questions like:

With so many options on the market, making a decision can feel overwhelming. That is why we researched for you!

Note: Because we discuss so much, you can use the button below to go to the list right away or use the Table of Contents to navigate the page.

Does FortiFlora have any side effects? Fortiflora does not have any negative side effects observed or expected. However, it is not recommended for dogs with severely compromised immune systems.

What is Fortiflora & what can it be used for?

Fortiflora is a probiotic for dogs that is known to strengthen the immune system and promote healthy intestinal function. Though it’s known to help control symptoms such as diarrhea in dogs, it does not agree with every single pup out there, so be mindful of this.

This over-the-counter powder contains numerous live active cultures that promote overall health. The powder contains vitamins A, C, and E, which all aid in a healthy lifestyle. Fortiflora can also be used when Your dog is:

  • is under stress
  • has eaten something he shouldn’t have
  • has soft stools
  • is taking antibiotics

    • What The Heck Is Animal Digest?

    Animal Digest is one of the ingredients found in FortiFlora for dogs. It’s a concentrated flavoring agent made up of hydrolyzed animal protein. But it’s not actually the contents of the digestive tract. It’s a reference to the way the manufacturer processes the animal protein.

    It means the manufacturer hydrolyzed the protein with heat, enzymes and acids to break it down into amino acids. But this changes the chemical structure of a protein. And that can void or reduce its nutritional value.

    And the wording is intentionally vague. We’re not told what type of animal is in this component of the supplement.

    Purina claims that the digest uses animal protein supplied by a USDA-inspected facility. But they don’t state that the animal protein itself is USDA-inspected and that’s a problem. Why? Because this includes USDA-inspected facilities that process euthanized animals. Some facilities also use 4-D livestock (livestock that’s dead, dying, diseased and downed).

    According to the EPA, these facilities can get “meat” from all kinds of places. This includes:

  • Butcher shops
  • Supermarkets
  • Restaurants
  • Fast-food chains
  • Animal shelters

    • Fast-food chains? Animal shelters? … It’s pretty easy to understand why the company chooses to keep its wording ill-defined.

    To make matters worse, before these ingredients get rendered they’re denatured. This means they get a coating of carbolic acid or cresylic disinfectant. These are both known toxins that will cause chemical burns and can even be fatal.

    The Advantages Outweigh the Risks

    In addition to antibiotics causing GI tract disorders, chronic diarrhea, flatulence and appetite loss, other factors such as poor diet, stress, environmental changes and non-antibiotic prescription drugs can also deplete beneficial bacteria in the dog’s intestines. Probiotics not only promote growth of “good” bacteria in your dog’s intestines but will also:

  • Improve digestive processes by facilitating breakdown of consumed food, absorption of vitamins and minerals and removal of toxic waste products
  • May help reduce minor food intolerances and their side effects
  • Reduces inflammation in the GI tract to relieve diarrhea or constipation
  • Increases energy levels by eliminating some chronic health conditions
  • Promotes manufacturing of folic acid, biotin and B vitamins
  • Stimulates and regulates all components of the canine immune system
  • Helps degrade and neutralize food toxins and carcinogens
  • Keeps hormone levels balanced and regulated
  • May reduce the risk of female dogs suffering urinary tract infections

    • For reasons not entirely known, the canine immune system sometimes overreacts to substances called allergens (most are proteins). Once these allergens attach to immunoglobulin antibody molecules in the bloodstream, they start targeting mast cells that exist in body tissues and force mast cells to release an inflammatory chemical called histamine. This chemical causes the classic signs of a respiratory allergy attack–itchy eyes, sneezing, swelled mucous membranes and congestion.

    Once histamine enters the blood, tissues surrounding blood vessels constrict and leak fluid. This is why nasal and eyes tissues swell, water and redden. In addition, histamine stimulates production of white blood cells that attempt to expel the allergen from the dog’s body by further irritating tissues and making the dog sneeze and cough. How sensitive the dog is to an allergen coupled by how long he is exposed to the allergen determines the severity and duration of symptoms.

  • Watery, Itchy eyes (the dog will paw at the eyes or shake the head constantly)
  • Extremely wet nose or clear discharge coming from the nose
  • Sneezing and wheezing
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Snoring caused by congestion and/or inflamed throat
  • Lack of appetite
  • Sleeping or laying around more than usual
  • Drinking more water than normal

    • Soy, wheat and corn fillers are the most common culprits of food allergies in dogs. However, dogs can also suffer allergic reactions to meat and dairy products. Symptoms presented by dogs with a food allergy include:

  • Itchy skin, especially around the face, ears, armpits and anal area
  • Hair loss/”hot” spots due to excessive biting and scratching
  • Recurring ear infections
  • Increased bowel movements or diarrhea
  • Difficulty breathing due to airway swelling
  • Decreased appetite and weight loss

    • FAQ

    Is it safe to give my dog FortiFlora everyday?

    One sachet of PRO PLAN FortiFlora can be used daily on a long-term basis.

    How long does it take for FortiFlora to work in dogs?

    When using a product like FortiFlora for digestive upset, “we’re looking for improvement within a few days,” says Dr. Cross. For immune health, your pet should experience a positive impact in about four weeks.

    Can dogs have too much probiotics?

    The digestive systems of humans and canines are very different; giving your dog human probiotics can cause extreme nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. They also may multiply too quickly in your dog’s system, causing severe infection or inflammation.

    Can I give my dog too much FortiFlora?

    However, giving your dog too much of a probiotic can lead to adverse reactions. If your dog starts to experience any of the following symptoms, you may want to talk to your vet about getting him or her off Fortiflora: Extreme diarrhea. Extreme nausea.