# Characterization and Evaluation of Lactic Acid Bacteria from Feline Milk for Probiotic Properties

## TL;DR

This study explores lactic acid bacteria from cat milk as potential probiotics to support gut health and combat antibiotic resistance in pets.

## Contribution

The study identifies and evaluates lactic acid bacteria from feline milk for probiotic properties and antimicrobial potential.

## Key findings

- Three lactic acid bacteria strains were isolated from feline milk, including Lactobacillus plantarum M2, M3, and Weissella confusa M1.
- Strain M3 showed high survival in acidic and bile environments and strong antimicrobial activity against harmful bacteria.
- L. plantarum M3 exhibited high auto-aggregation and hydrophobicity, suggesting strong probiotic potential for use in pets.

## Abstract

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance in the digestive system. They are often added to food or used as supplements to support gut health and immunity. In this study, we isolated and identified bacteria from the milk of healthy cats to explore their potential as probiotics. After testing their ability to survive harsh conditions like stomach acid and bile, and to fight harmful bacteria, several strains showed strong probiotic characteristics. These bacteria were also safe and showed potential to improve intestinal health. Our findings suggest that cat milk may be a valuable source of new probiotics, which could be developed into supplements or added to pet food to improve the health of cats and possibly other animals. This research provides a foundation for creating natural and effective ways to support animal health through diet.

Antibiotic overuse has contributed to the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, posing a serious public health threat. Pets may act as reservoirs of MDR bacteria, with the potential to transmit these pathogens to humans. This study aimed to identify probiotic alternatives to antibiotics by isolating and evaluating lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from feline milk. In addition to conventional in vitro assessments such as growth kinetics, adhesion ability, safety, and antipathogenic activity, this study also evaluated the antioxidant capacity and production of beneficial metabolites. Three LAB strains were isolated from feline milk, including two strains of Lactobacillus plantarum (M2 and M3) and one strain of Weissella confusa (M1). Resistance assays revealed that strains M2 and M3 exhibited high survival rates under stress conditions, including exposure to bile salts, acidic environments, artificial intestinal and gastric juice. Notably, strain M3 demonstrated strong auto-aggregation ability (73.39%) and high hydrophobicity toward trichloromethane (62.16%). It was also nonhemolytic and susceptible to various β-lactam antibiotics. Furthermore, strain M3 exhibited potent antimicrobial activity in both co-aggregation and Oxford cup assays. Overall, L. plantarum M3 displayed superior probiotic properties, suggesting its potential as an adjunct or alternative to antibiotics in managing MDR bacterial infections in cats.