Faecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) in Veterinary Medicine: A Mini Review

Abstract

Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a therapeutic approach that involves the transfer of faecal microbiota from a healthy donor to a recipient, aiming to restore a balanced microbial community in the recipient’s gut. FMT has achieved significant success in human medicine, particularly in the treatment of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) and other gastrointestinal disorders. While FMT has been utilised in veterinary medicine for decades, its formal recognition in human medicine has influenced its adoption and advancement. In this mini review article, we provide a concise analysis of the mechanisms underlying FMT and trace the historical development of transplantation procedures in veterinary medicine. We explore the current applications of FMT in companion animals and livestock, highlighting its efficacy in managing gastrointestinal disorders. Additionally, we discuss the synergistic role of metagenomics, metabolomics, and artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping modern FMT practice, emphasizing their potential for improving FMT efficacy, personalized treatment strategies, and diagnostic approaches in veterinary medicine. By reviewing pertinent scientific literature, this comprehensive review explores the historical perspective, current state, and potential impact of FMT in the field of veterinary medicine.