An Indole-Rich Postbiotic Reduces Itching in Dogs: A Randomized, Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Study.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Immunology
• Microbiome Research

Background:

• Pruritus in dogs is often linked to atopic dermatitis and skin inflammation.
• The gut-skin axis plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis.
• Early interventions supporting gut-skin health are needed to manage pruritus and prevent disease progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel indole-rich canine immune health postbiotic (CIHP) for its efficacy in reducing itching.
• To assess the impact of CIHP on the gut microbiome in dogs with subclinical pruritus.
• To explore CIHP's potential as an early intervention for pruritic conditions.

Main Methods:

• A 28-day, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial involving 30 dogs with elevated itching.
• Itching was measured using accelerometer tracking and the Pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS).
• Skin and coat health were assessed, and gut microbiome composition was analyzed via fecal sequencing.

Main Results:

• CIHP significantly reduced scratching by 20% (p=0.032) and PVAS scores by 27% (p=0.02) compared to placebo.
• Skin and coat quality improved in the CIHP group by Day 14 (p=0.01).
• Shannon diversity of the gut microbiome increased by 4.6% (p=0.043), indicating a healthier gut environment.

Conclusions:

• CIHP effectively reduces itching in dogs with subclinical pruritus.
• The postbiotic promotes a healthy gut-skin axis and positively modulates the gut microbiome.
• CIHP shows potential as an early, non-drug intervention for pruritic conditions and immune support in dogs.