Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) for Dogs
What is a Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT)?
Does your dog suffer from a chronic bowel disease that hasn't improved with conventional treatments? A Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) could be the solution you are looking for. It is a safe and modern treatment option for dogs suffering from prolonged gastrointestinal issues.
The goal of the treatment is to restore a healthy, balanced bacterial community, or microbiome, in the gut. Research results are highly promising, bringing hope to many pets suffering from chronic diarrhea and their owners.
In studies, up to 75% of dogs benefited significantly from FMT treatment: activity levels increased, stool quality improved, and the need for medication could be reduced.
When should FMT treatment be considered?
We particularly recommend microbiota transplantation when traditional treatments have not produced the desired results. The treatment is suitable for dogs with:
- Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): When dietary changes, antibiotics, or corticosteroids haven't provided sufficient relief.
- Prolonged diarrhea: Situations where diarrhea continues despite multiple treatment attempts, reducing the pet's quality of life.
- Microbiome imbalance: Symptoms occurring especially after antibiotic courses, such as gas, diarrhea, or unusual fatigue (lethargy).
How does FMT treatment work in practice?
At Lexavet, the treatment is always carried out safely under monitored conditions. The process is designed to be as stress-free as possible:
1. Donor screening: We exclusively use healthy and rigorously tested donor dogs to ensure the quality of the transplanted microbiome.
2. Preparation: The patient dog is kept fasted for about 6 hours before the procedure. If necessary, we use light sedation to keep the dog relaxed.
3. The transplant: The processed stool sample is administered rectally using a soft catheter. The procedure is quick, and dogs usually tolerate it very well.
4. Aftercare: Exercise is restricted for 4–6 hours after the procedure to allow the new microbiota to effectively attach to the intestinal wall.
To achieve optimal results, we recommend a series of 2–3 treatments spaced approximately 10 days apart. If the response is good, follow-up treatments can be considered on a case-by-case basis.
What does Fecal Microbiota Transplant cost in Lexavet?
Keeping your pet healthy shouldn't feel like a financial strain. That’s why we at Lexavet offer competitive prices and flexible payment options to ensure your pet always receives the best possible care without compromises.
Through our partner Resurs Bank, you can easily finance treatment costs with up to 12 months of interest-free payments using a Resurs Veterinary Account. We also offer convenient direct insurance compensation services with Lähitapiola, OP Pohjola, If, and Agria, making the insurance claim process seamless during your visit.
We accept cash as well as all major debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard).
- First treatment session: €480 (includes sedation if necessary and donor material)
- Subsequent treatment sessions (2nd and 3rd): €350 / session
- (Please note: Medications used during the visit are added to the prices)
Ready to book an appointment?
We have made booking easy for you, and you can schedule an appointment for your pet's treatment through our online booking system at any time of day or night.
You can also reach us at 044 7447 006, where our expert team will help you find a time that fits your needs. We are happy to help you!
Why choose Lexavet?
Lexavet is a private, independent small animal clinic in Helsinki, located right by Ring 1 (Kehä 1). We are just a 2-minute walk from Pukinmäki railway station, making it easy to reach us both by public transport and by car. For drivers, free parking spaces are available right in front of our door.
Our experienced and professional team is dedicated to providing exceptionally high-quality and compassionate veterinary care. You can trust that your pet is always in competent and gentle hands with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, it is. Side effects are rare and usually mild, such as transient diarrhea or mild abdominal discomfort within 24 hours of the procedure.
Why are multiple treatment sessions needed?
A single transplant is often insufficient to permanently change the microbiome of a chronically ill gut. A series of treatments offers the best chance for long-term results.
Is this treatment suitable for cats?
FMT treatment can also be applied to cats, although research data and clinical experience are currently more extensive for dogs. Contact us, and we will evaluate your cat's situation individually.