Cat's Claw

Cat's Claw, or Uncaria tomentosa, is a tall woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest, growing about 100 feet tall. More importantly: this remarkable plant has gained attention for its potential health benefits for both paople and animals. 

When it comes to dogs, Cat’s Claw can support joint health, offer immune-boosting properties, and more. So let's dive into Cat's Claw and see what it can do for your dog.

Cat’s Claw Benefits For Dogs

Cat’s Claw has several medicinal properties. It's anti-inlammatory, anti-arthritic, antioxidant, and immune-stimulating.

Some research suggests the herb's cardiac benefits in lowering blood pressure and managing heart arrhythmias. It's been used traditionally in South America for its anticancer effects. 

Here are some important ways Cat’s Claw can help your dog. 

Antioxidant And Anti-Inflammatory

Cat's Claw is rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and help reduce chronic inflammation.

Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative damage to cells, and even your dog’s DNA. They’re damaged cells that try to repair themselves by stealing molecules from other cells. This harms the DNA in that cell and makes your dog more susceptible to disease and early aging. Free radicals are a normal product of metabolism, but when they grow out of control, they lead to inflammation and chronic disease.

By managing free radicals, Cat's Claw helps reduce inflammation and protect your dog's cells from oxidative stress, slowing the aging and disease processes. This antioxidant activity can promote overall wellbeing and support the body's natural healing abilities.

Joint Health And Mobility

Aging and physical exertion can take a toll on your dog's joints, leading to arthritis that causes stiffness, discomfort, and reduced mobility. 

Cat's Claw has a long tradition of supporting joint health in both people and animals. The antioxidant ability described above can reduce oxidative stress, helping to alleviate inflammation throughout the body, including your dog’s joints. This helps ease stiffness and maintain your dog’s joint flexibility and mobility. 

Some studies show Cat's Claw helps relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis as well as rheumatoid arthritis, reducing both pain and stiffness and lowering inflammation.

Cat's Claw can provide natural support for joint function, helping your dog stay active, agile, and comfortable as he ages.

Immune Support

Cat's Claw is also well-known for its immune-boosting properties, which can help strengthen your dog's natural defenses. 

The herb contains a variety of beneficial compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids and glycosides ... substances that work together to support a healthy immune system. Immune support also stems from the herb's ability to improve gut health, as we’ll discuss later. 

Some studies in humans show that Cat's Claw boosted the number of white blood cells in the body, which are important in fighting infection.

By stimulating immune cell activity, Cat's Claw can help ward off infections, promote overall wellness, and improve your dog's ability to protect against pathogens and disease

Digestive Health

A  healthy digestive system is the foundation of your dog’s overall health and immune system. 

Cat's Claw has been traditionally used to support gastrointestinal health and manage a number of digestive problems. It can help soothe the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and support the balance of beneficial gut bacteria. 

About 90% of your dog’s immune system lives in the gut. By promoting a healthy gut environment, Cat's Claw can contribute to a robust immune system, as well as optimal nutrient absorption and overall digestive wellness, 

How Much Cat’s Claw Can Dogs Take?

Cat’s Claw dosage can vary depending on your dog’s size and individual needs … but here are some general dosage guidelines you can use based on your dog’s weight:

• 11-25 lbs: 1/4 tsp daily
• 26-50 lbs: 1/2 tsp daily
• 51-75 lbs: 3/4 tsp daily
• 76+ lbs: 1 tsp daily

Note: It’s best to choose Cat's Claw supplements specifically formulated for dogs. Human formulations may contain additional ingredients or use different concentrations that may not be suitable for dogs. 

Cats Claw Risks For Dogs: Safety Considerations

Cat's Claw is generally considered safe for dogs and has minimal side effects. However, here are some safety considerations before giving your dog Cat’s Claw.

1. Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to Cat's Claw. Keep an eye out for itching, swelling, or digestive upset when introducing Cat's Claw to your dog. If any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use and consult your holistic vet.
2. Drug Interactions: Cat's Claw may interact with certain medications, such as immunosuppressants or anticoagulants. Cat's Claw may increase the risk of bleeding. If your dog is currently on any medications or has an underlying medical condition or autoimmune disease, consult with your holistic vet before adding Cat's Claw to your pup’s regimen. Stop using Cat's Claw before any surgery.
3. Quality and Sourcing: When choosing a Cat's Claw supplement for your dog, it's essential to select products from reputable sources. Most importantly, ensure that the supplement is specifically formulated for dogs and undergoes rigorous quality testing. 
4. Dosage and Administration: Follow the recommended dosage guidelines provided by your veterinarian or the product manufacturer. Giving your dog too much Cat's Claw can potentially lead to adverse effects or disrupt his overall health balance.

Lastly, remember to always monitor your dog's response. Start off by giving any new supplement slowly, and check with your holistic vet if you see any reactions.