Benefits of Collagen for Dogs & Other Pets
The most copious amount of protein present in a human’s body is Collagen, mainly type 1. Found in blood vessels, bones, muscles, skin, tendons, and digestive system, Collagen plays a vital role in replacing dead cells to maintain skin strength and elasticity. It also helps in the development of cartilage tissues, tendons and keeps the joint health intact. Briefly speaking, it is the ‘glue’ that binds the body organs together.
As you age, the production of the so-called “complex protein” Collagen slows down thus resulting in wrinkled skin, painful joints, arthritis, thinner cartilage and muscle, digestive issues and many other old age health conditions.
Similarly, In dogs and other pets like cats, Collagen also plays a very similar role and because dogs age much faster than humans, the protein gets depleted rapidly leaving your dog with health issues like joint pain, arthritis, as well as, issues somewhat similar to their parents.
Hence, including collagen in the diet of elderly dogs is always necessary and also suggested by vets.
Read below the benefits of supplementing your dog’s diet with collagen.
Benefits of Collagen
Likewise in humans, collagen for pets is a very popular supplement nowadays since it helps as an anti-aging agent and improves overall health.
- Maintains Joint Health And Overall Bone Health – Joints, cartilage, and connective tissue health is maintained by the protein and also prevents the problems that come with aging like joint pain and mobility issues.
- Promotes A Healthy Coat And Skin Health – As mentioned above, collagen for pets is also responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and skin health. The layer of skin called dermis in dogs is mainly made of Collagen as well as a good supply of collagen will eventually improve the skin health and fur health.
- Improves Digestion and Digestive System – It helps the digestive system and also helps in syndromes like leaky gut in dogs. Bone Broth is a substance rich in Collagen that repairs the gut lining.
- Improves Appetite – As a dog’s age, their appetite decrease. And it is a big concern for pet parents because if your pooch doesn’t eat you won’t be able to feed the nutrients and supplements that he/she require. In sort of situations, collagen acts as a savior and encourages the desire to eat food in dogs
- Helps in Joint pain Osteoporosis – It also helps in Osteoporosis, a common health issue that comes with old age. Many researchers have shown that collagen has improved mobility in pets and decreased joint pain.
Supplements rich in Glucosamine and Chondroitin like Joint Guard, Arthrimed tablets, SeaFlex Joint Function, as well as Natures Answer Glucosamine manages the production of collagen. Also, they reduce joint inflammation and stop the growth of bad enzymes that hamper joint health.
Side Effects of Collagen, Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulphate
In fact, the good thing is that the side effects of the above mention components are very rare. Just give the supplements in the right proportions and you will get the results.
Precautions
Make sure that you consult your vet before giving any Collagen or Glucosamine Supplements. In the same way, if you observe any adverse reactions please contact your vet immediately.
Yes, recently there are many supplements in the market that supply collagen for cats as well. You just have to select the apt brand. Likewise, Cats experience similar benefits when collagen-rich supplements are fed.
Can Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulphate, and MSM Supplements Be Used Instead Of Collagen For Joint Health?
It depends on the requirement. However, for arthritis and joint health Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulphate and MSM are as effective as collagen supplements. Because they also enhance the cartilage build-up and reduce inflammation thus, increasing mobility and decreasing joint pain.
Therefore, you can use the supplements with the above-mentioned ingredients as well.
Collagen/ glucosamine, as well as chondroitin sulfate supplements, should be given in general irrespective of the health condition of your pet. Because these ingredients can help your pet to be safe from the health conditions that old age offers.
David joined CanadaVetCare in 2013 as a product analyst and veterinary assistant. Being a passionate pet lover and keen animal health researcher, David had always found ways and solutions to help pet parents to improve their pets’ health. He is always happy to answer pet health-related queries and recommending pet parents for the right pet product for their furry companions.