What Is Fortiflora and What Is It Used For?

Fortiflora is a probiotic supplement developed by Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets, widely recommended by veterinarians to support the intestinal health of dogs and cats.

What is Fortiflora?

Fortiflora is a nutritional powder supplement that contains beneficial bacteria for the body, known as probiotics. The main active ingredient is Enterococcus faecium (SF68 strain), a bacterium with proven probiotic action in scientific studies for companion animals.

The product comes in specific versions for dogs (Canine) and cats (Feline), with formulations adapted to the needs of each species. It is sold in individual 1-gram sachets, making daily dosing easy.

What is it used for?

The main objective of Fortiflora is to balance the animal's intestinal microbiota, promoting a healthy digestive environment. It is often indicated in the following situations:

• Acute and chronic diarrhoea: helps restore the balance of the intestinal flora, reducing the duration and intensity of diarrhoea episodes.
• After antibiotic use: antibiotics eliminate beneficial bacteria along with harmful ones. Fortiflora helps re-colonise healthy microbiota.
• Food changes: dietary changes can cause digestive upsets. The supplement smooths the transition.
• Stress situations: travel, veterinary appointments or changes in environment can unbalance the intestine. Fortiflora supports recovery.
• Immune system strengthening: by containing antioxidants (vitamins C and E), it contributes to the animal's immune defence.
• Elderly or debilitated animals: the microbiota of older pets tends to be less balanced, making probiotic support particularly beneficial.

How does Fortiflora work?

By ingesting Fortiflora's probiotics, the animal receives billions of live bacteria that temporarily settle in the intestine, competing with harmful microorganisms, producing protective substances and stimulating local immunity. The result is more balanced digestion and more appropriate stool consistency.

How to use Fortiflora?

Usage is simple: just mix the contents of one sachet directly into the animal's food, once a day. The palatable flavour makes it easy to accept; most pets consume it without resistance. The period of use varies according to the clinical indication, but in cases of acute diarrhoea, it is usually 1 to 2 weeks.

Does Fortiflora have contraindications?

Fortiflora is considered safe for most dogs and cats. There are no absolute contraindications described, but caution is recommended in animals with severe immunodeficiency; in these cases, the introduction of any probiotic should be discussed with the attending veterinarian.

Adverse reactions are rare. Occasionally, in the first doses, a slight increase in gas may occur, meaning the intestine is adapting. This usually resolves within a few days.

Frequently asked questions

Can Fortiflora be given daily on an ongoing basis?

Yes, Fortiflora can be administered continuously without known adverse effects. However, the period of use should be defined by the veterinarian according to the objective. In acute cases, such as diarrhoea, it is usually used for 1 to 2 weeks. In situations of maintenance or immune support, it can be extended for longer.

How long does Fortiflora take to work?

In cases of acute diarrhoea, many owners report visible improvements in stools within 2 to 5 days. For overall microbiota balance and immune support, the effects tend to be more gradual, with results observed over 2 to 4 weeks of regular use.

Is Fortiflora for dogs different from Fortiflora for cats?

Yes. Although the active ingredient (Enterococcus faecium SF68) is the same, Fortiflora Canine and Fortiflora Feline have distinct formulations adapted to the nutritional needs of each species, including different concentrations of vitamins and palatability enhancers. It is not recommended to use the canine version in cats, or vice versa.

Can my animal take Fortiflora without a veterinary prescription?

Fortiflora is a nutritional supplement, not a medication, so it does not require a mandatory prescription. However, we always recommend veterinary guidance before starting any supplementation, especially if the animal has persistent digestive symptoms or known chronic conditions.

How to store Fortiflora after opening

Fortiflora sachets are single-dose, designed for one-time use. Each sachet should be opened immediately before being mixed into the food; it is not advisable to save an opened sachet for later use, as exposure to air can reduce the viability of probiotic microorganisms. The complete package should be stored in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.