Effects of Bacillus Subtilis C-3102 addition to dry dog food on nutrient digestibility faecal characteristics, faecal microbiota and blood chemistry in healthy dogs

Abstract

Abstract This study evaluated the effects of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 supplementation on digestibility, faecal characteristics, some blood chemistry parameters and microbiota of dogs. Eighteen adult Golden retriever dogs were assigned to three treatments: control (no B. subtilis), 2g B. subtilis (5 × 108 CFU/g, BS1) and 4g B. subtilis (5 × 108 CFU/g, BS2) added groups. Dogs were fed 25 days of adaptation period followed by 5 days of faecal collection. Blood samples were taken from all dogs on the first and last day of the study. Fecal characteristics were evaluated on the last 3 days of the study by dry matter content, fecal score, fecal output, pH, ammonia, short (SCFA) and branched chain fatty acids. Improved dry matter, fibre, organic matter and protein digestibility coefficents were determined in BS1 and BS2 (P < 0.05). Lower pH, higher dry matter, acetate, propionate and isobutyrate levels in feaces were determined in BS1 and BS2 (P < 0.05). Lower ammonia and firmer stools were observed in BS2 (P < 0.001). Counts of CFU of faecal Enterococci, Lactobacilli were improved BS1 and BS2 (P < 0.05). Serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels were not affected (P > 0.05). Higher values of WBCs, RBCs and granulocyte were recorded in B.subtilis groups (P < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation of B. subtilis in dog food improved faecal quality, enhanced digestibility of diet and contributed to the health by supporting immune functions of dogs, reducing gut ammonia, increasing SCFA and number of Lactobacillus and Enterecocci.