FAQs for Dogs

Welcome to the Activ Pet Health FAQs.

Here you’ll find simple answers about Tri-Biotics, gut health, Activ Daily ULTIMATE and why finished-formula testing matters.

Our focus is clear: support your dog’s gut, skin, immune health and overall wellbeing from the inside out.

If you have any questions that aren't covered here, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always here to help and support you and your furry friends!

WHAT ARE TRI-BIOTICS?

Tri-Biotics are the next evolution in gut health.

They combine Prebiotics, Probiotics and Postbiotics into one complete system that works together - not in isolation.

  • Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria.
  • Prebiotics feed and support those bacteria.
  • Postbiotics reduce inflammation and help repair the gut lining.

This matters because probiotics alone struggle in an inflamed gut environment. When inflammation is present, harmful bacteria can overpower and destroy beneficial strains before they take hold.

Tri-Biotics solve this problem.

By combining all three components, healthy bacteria are protected, nourished and able to colonise properly. The result is stronger absorption, better digestive balance and improved immune function.

This is not a trend. It’s the future of microbiome science.

Research continues to confirm that a complete Tri-Biotic approach delivers far greater results than probiotics alone - which is why Tri-Biotics are becoming the new benchmark in advanced digestive health.

WHAT DO TRI-BIOTICS DO?

Tri-Biotics deliver a more complete gut health support system.

Postbiotics provide beneficial metabolites that can help support your dog’s gut environment. These compounds help support immune balance, gut barrier function and a healthier environment for normal gut function.

At the same time:

  • Prebiotics feed the beneficial bacteria.
  • Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria.
  • Postbiotics help support the entire system.

This means your dog doesn’t have to rely on probiotics alone to produce beneficial compounds. The gut receives direct support, while long-term bacterial balance is supported over time.

That’s the power of Tri-Biotics - broader microbiome support, stronger gut balance and better daily support from the inside out.

WHAT IS THE DOG MICROBIOME AND WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT?

The microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms living in and on your dog’s body. It continues to be a rapidly evolving area of research, with growing interest in how it may influence overall health and wellbeing.

Here are some key areas of research:

Gut microbiome and brain health: Research suggests that the gut microbiome may play a role in brain health, mood and behaviour. Studies have found that certain bacteria in the gut can produce neurotransmitters and other compounds that may influence brain function. Researchers are also exploring how diet, probiotics and microbiome support may help influence the gut-brain connection.

Microbiome and cancer: Research has shown that the microbiome may be associated with the development and progression of some types of cancer. Studies have found links between gut microbiome composition and colorectal cancer, although this area is still developing and should not be interpreted as a treatment claim.

Microbiome and immunity: The microbiome plays an important role in immune function and regulation. Research has shown that the gut microbiome is involved in the development and function of immune cells, and changes in gut microbiome balance have been associated with immune-related conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Microbiome and personalised nutrition: There is increasing interest in microbiome-based personalised nutrition. Research suggests that the gut microbiome may influence how the body responds to different foods and diets. In the future, dietary support based on an individual microbiome may become more common.

Overall, the microbiome continues to be an exciting area of research, with the potential to improve our understanding of gut health, immune health, skin health, brain health and overall wellbeing.

ARE TRI-BIOTICS BENEFICIAL FOR NUTRIENT ABSORPTION?

Yes and this is where a full Tri-Biotic approach makes the difference.

Postbiotics help support the gut lining and immune balance, creating a healthier environment for nutrients to be absorbed properly.

Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria that assist in nutrient breakdown and metabolism.

Prebiotics feed and sustain those beneficial strains so they can continue working effectively.

Together, Tri-Biotics help support the absorption and use of vitamins and minerals from food and supplements.

Certain beneficial bacteria can also help produce B vitamins, and research suggests there may be a relationship between vitamin D and postbiotic activity within the gut.

If your dog is showing signs of micronutrient imbalance, poor gut function may be one possible factor - not just diet alone.

Tri-Biotics help support gut balance, immune health, digestion and the body’s ability to use the nutrients your dog is already consuming.

HOW DO DOGS GET RID OF 'BAD' BACTERIA?

Your dog’s gut contains trillions of microorganisms.

This ecosystem is called the gut microbiome.

Health isn’t about eliminating “bad” bacteria.

It’s about balance.

A healthy microbiome contains both beneficial and potentially harmful organisms — bacteria, fungi, protozoa and even viruses. When balanced, they regulate each other and support digestion, immunity and overall wellbeing.

Problems start when that balance shifts.

Poor diet, stress, antibiotics or illness can allow harmful bacteria to dominate.

So how do we fix it?

By restoring balance with Tri-Biotics.

Tri-Biotics combine:

  • Prebiotics – to feed beneficial bacteria
  • Probiotics – to introduce beneficial strains
  • Postbiotics – to support the gut environment, immune response and gut barrier function

This three-part system helps beneficial bacteria outcompete harmful strains naturally. It doesn’t overload the gut. It rebalances it.

Postbiotics also offer greater stability compared to live probiotics. They tolerate temperature and pressure changes better, giving improved shelf life and consistent activity.

The International Scientific Association of Probiotics and Prebiotics defines a postbiotic as a preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that provides a health benefit. In simple terms, they are the functional compounds and cellular components that support gut repair and immune regulation.

When combined into a Tri-Biotic system, the result is broader microbial support, better gut function and stronger daily microbiome balance.

HOW LONG DO TRI-BIOTICS TAKE TO WORK?

Results can begin quickly - but the full benefit builds over time.

Research suggests that postbiotic activity may help support specific gut imbalances within 1–2 weeks, with some owners noticing early changes in digestion, stool quality or coat condition.

Because Tri-Biotics combine Prebiotics, Probiotics and Postbiotics, your dog receives both immediate support and long-term gut restoration.

Our clinical trials with Adelaide University measured microbiome changes over a full 90-day period, showing that gut and skin microbiome support can continue to develop with consistent daily use.

This sustained progression is important.

Tri-Biotics don’t just focus on surface symptoms - they help support gut balance, immune function and overall wellbeing from the inside out.

WHY ARE MEAL TOPPER POWDERS LESS STABLE?

Meal topper powders can be less stable because live bacteria are sensitive from the moment the bag is opened.

Every time the bag is opened and closed, probiotics can be exposed to oxygen, humidity and temperature changes, which may reduce their viability.

When powder is sprinkled over your dog’s food, it is also exposed to moisture. This can activate the bacteria without much protection, meaning some may lose viability before your dog even eats the meal.

Even if some survive, a percentage can be affected by stomach acid before reaching the gut, with up to 70–80% potentially lost along the way in some unprotected probiotic formats.

On top of that, many meal toppers use generic strains that may not be specifically selected for the canine microbiome. They also often rely on probiotics alone, without the Prebiotics and Postbiotics needed to support more of the gut health chain.

The result can be inconsistent outcomes because the product is relying heavily on live bacteria sitting on top of food, rather than delivering a stable, complete Tri-Biotic microbiome support system.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CLINICALLY TESTED PRODUCT AND A TESTED INGREDIENT?

A clinically tested product means the entire finished formula was trialled exactly as it’s sold - same strains, same dosages, same delivery method - and proven to work in real animals over a defined period. The results reflect what actually happens when a dog takes that specific product.

A tested ingredient means one single component inside the formula has research behind it - usually tested on its own, often in humans, and often at different dosages or delivery formats. That does not prove the final blended product works. When ingredients are combined, stability changes, survival rates change, interactions change, and the outcome can be completely different.

Companies that advertise “clinically tested ingredients” are often using that phrase to borrow credibility from unrelated studies. It sounds scientific, but it does not mean their actual product was tested. In many cases, it’s marketing designed to imply proof without investing in real clinical trials on the finished formula.

In simple terms:

Tested ingredient = someone, somewhere studied part of it.

Clinically tested product = this exact formula was proven to work.

FAQs for Cats

Welcome to the Activ Pet Health Cat FAQs.

Here you’ll find simple answers about feline gut health, Tri-Biotics, Activ Daily OPTIMUM, Activ Stress, and why cats need formulas developed specifically for their microbiome.

Our focus is simple: support your cat’s gut health, digestion, immune function, skin & coat, stress resilience and everyday wellbeing from the inside out.

If you have a question that isn’t covered here, please contact us. We’re always happy to help you support your cat’s health.

WHAT ARE TRI-BIOTICS?

Tri-Biotics are the next evolution in gut health.

They combine Prebiotics, Probiotics and Postbiotics into one complete system that works together - not in isolation.

  • Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria.
  • Prebiotics feed and support those bacteria.
  • Postbiotics reduce inflammation and help repair the gut lining.

This matters because probiotics alone struggle in an inflamed gut environment. When inflammation is present, harmful bacteria can overpower and destroy beneficial strains before they take hold.

Tri-Biotics solve this problem.

By combining all three components, healthy bacteria are protected, nourished and able to colonise properly. The result is stronger absorption, better digestive balance and improved immune function.

This is not a trend. It’s the future of microbiome science.

Research continues to confirm that a complete Tri-Biotic approach delivers far greater results than probiotics alone - which is why Tri-Biotics are becoming the new benchmark in advanced digestive health.

WHAT DO TRI-BIOTICS DO?

Tri-Biotics deliver a more complete gut health support system.

Postbiotics provide beneficial metabolites that can help support your dog’s gut environment. These compounds help support immune balance, gut barrier function and a healthier environment for normal gut function.

At the same time:

  • Prebiotics feed the beneficial bacteria.
  • Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria.
  • Postbiotics help support the entire system.

This means your dog doesn’t have to rely on probiotics alone to produce beneficial compounds. The gut receives direct support, while long-term bacterial balance is supported over time.

That’s the power of Tri-Biotics - broader microbiome support, stronger gut balance and better daily support from the inside out.

WHAT IS THE MICROBIOME AND WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT?

The microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms living in and on your cat’s body. It is a rapidly evolving area of research, with growing interest in how it may influence overall health and wellbeing.

Here are some key areas of research:

Gut microbiome and brain health: Research suggests that the gut microbiome may play a role in mood, behaviour and the gut-brain connection. Certain gut bacteria can produce compounds that may influence the nervous system, which is why researchers are continuing to explore the relationship between microbiome health and stress in cats.

Microbiome and immunity: The gut microbiome plays an important role in normal immune function and regulation. Supporting a healthy microbiome may help maintain your cat’s natural defences and overall resilience.

Microbiome and digestion: The gut microbiome helps break down food, supports nutrient absorption and contributes to healthy digestion and stool quality.

Microbiome and skin & coat health: The gut, immune system and skin are closely connected. Researchers are continuing to investigate how microbiome balance may influence skin health, coat condition and everyday comfort.

Microbiome and personalised nutrition: There is growing interest in how an individual animal’s microbiome may affect the way they respond to different foods and diets. This is one reason species-specific microbiome support matters.

Overall, the microbiome continues to be an exciting area of research, with the potential to improve our understanding of gut health, immune function, skin and coat health, the gut-brain connection and overall feline wellbeing.

ARE TRI-BIOTICS BENEFICIAL FOR NUTRIENT ABSORPTION?

Yes and this is where a full Tri-Biotic approach can help.

Postbiotics help support the gut environment and normal immune function, creating favourable conditions for healthy nutrient absorption.

Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria that can assist with digestion and nutrient metabolism.

Prebiotics help feed and support those beneficial bacteria so they can continue working effectively.

Together, Tri-Biotics support healthy digestion and the body’s ability to absorb and use nutrients from your cat’s daily diet.

Certain beneficial bacteria may also contribute to the production of some B vitamins and other useful metabolites within the gut.

If your cat is experiencing digestive issues or poor nutrient utilisation, gut health may be one factor worth considering alongside diet and other possible causes.

Tri-Biotics help support gut balance, digestion, normal immune function and nutrient absorption so your cat can get more from the food they’re already eating.

HOW DO CATS GET RID OF 'BAD' BACTERIA?

Your cat’s gut contains trillions of microorganisms that make up the gut microbiome.

Good gut health isn’t about eliminating every “bad” bacterium.

It’s about maintaining balance.

A healthy microbiome contains both beneficial and potentially harmful microorganisms. When they stay in balance, they help support digestion, immune function and overall wellbeing.

Problems can arise when that balance shifts.

Things like stress, diet changes, antibiotics or illness can disrupt the microbiome and allow less beneficial bacteria to become more dominant.

That’s where Tri-Biotics can help support balance:

  • Prebiotics – help feed beneficial bacteria
  • Probiotics – introduce beneficial strains
  • Postbiotics – help support the gut environment, normal immune function and gut barrier health

Together, this three-part approach supports beneficial bacteria and helps maintain a healthier, more balanced gut environment.

Postbiotics also offer added stability because they are not live bacteria, making them more resistant to changes in temperature and storage conditions.

In simple terms, Tri-Biotics help support microbial balance, healthy digestion and everyday gut function in cats.

HOW LONG DO TRI-BIOTICS TAKE TO WORK?

Some cats may show early changes within the first few weeks, but microbiome support works best with consistent daily use over time.

Because Tri-Biotics combine Prebiotics, Probiotics and Postbiotics, they support the gut in different ways - helping feed beneficial bacteria, introduce helpful strains and support the gut environment.

You may notice changes in areas such as digestion, stool quality, skin and coat condition or everyday wellbeing, but every cat is different and results can vary.

For our canine range, clinical research with Adelaide University measured microbiome changes over a 90-day period. While the feline formula is different, we still recommend giving Activ Daily OPTIMUM consistently to allow time for the microbiome to respond.

Tri-Biotics are designed for ongoing gut balance, digestion, immune support and overall wellbeing, rather than being a quick-fix product.

WHY ARE MEAL TOPPER POWDERS LESS STABLE?

Meal topper powders can be less stable because live probiotic bacteria are sensitive to oxygen, humidity, moisture and temperature changes.

Each time the bag is opened, the bacteria may be exposed to conditions that can reduce their viability. Once the powder is sprinkled onto your cat’s food, moisture can also affect how well those live bacteria remain stable before being eaten.

Even after consumption, some probiotics may not survive the digestive process well enough to reach the gut in useful numbers, particularly if they are not well protected.

Another limitation is that many meal toppers rely on generic probiotic strains rather than strains selected specifically for the feline microbiome. They may also use probiotics alone, without the added support of Prebiotics and Postbiotics.

A Tri-Biotic approach combines all three:

  • Prebiotics to help feed beneficial bacteria
  • Probiotics to introduce beneficial strains
  • Postbiotics to support the gut environment

For cats, using a stable, feline-specific Tri-Biotic formula can provide a more complete approach to daily microbiome support.

WHY DO CATS NEED A FORMULA MADE ESPECIALLY FOR THEM?

Cats are not small dogs. Their digestive system, metabolism and gut microbiome are different, which means their supplements should be designed with feline needs in mind.

Many pet supplements use generic strains or formulas originally developed for dogs or humans. While these may still provide some support, they are not necessarily selected specifically for the feline microbiome.

That’s why our cat formulas are developed specifically for cats, using feline-specific strains, Tri-Biotics - Prebiotics, Probiotics and Postbiotics - and Microbiome Assist™ to support the gut environment.

A feline-specific approach helps provide targeted support for:

  • Healthy digestion
  • Gut microbiome balance
  • Normal immune function
  • Healthy skin and coat
  • Everyday wellbeing

In simple terms, cats have their own biology and microbiome - so they deserve a formula made specifically for them.

CAN I GIVE MY CAT THE DOG VERSION OF ACTIV DAILY?

We recommend using Activ Daily OPTIMUM for Cats rather than the dog formula.

Cats have different nutritional, digestive and microbiome needs, which is why Activ Daily OPTIMUM was developed specifically for the feline gut using feline-specific strains, Tri-Biotics and Microbiome Assist™.

The dog and cat products follow the same gut-first philosophy, but they are not interchangeable formulas. For the most targeted daily support, choose the product designed specifically for your cat.

HOW MANY TREATS DO I GIVE MY CAT?

Our latest batch of cat supplement treats is approximately one-third of the size of our previous treats.

The updated daily serving is now:

3 treats per day

1 previous-size treat = 3 new smaller treats

Each packet now contains 90+ treats instead of 30+ treats, so you are still receiving the same number of daily serves per packet.

The formula and recommended daily amount have not changed - only the individual treat size has changed.

Important: Some packaging may still show the previous serving guide of 1 treat per day. Please follow the updated serving guide and give 3 treats per day.

AT WHAT AGE CAN MY CATS START TO USE ACTIV SUPPLEMENTS?

Activ supplements can be introduced once your kitten is fully weaned and eating solid food.

Supporting the gut early can help build a strong foundation for healthy digestion, immune function and everyday wellbeing as your kitten grows.

For very young kittens, pregnant or nursing cats, or cats with existing health conditions, we recommend checking with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.