Joint Supplements for Dogs and Cats

Oral Joint Supplements
Most joint supplements contain chondroitin and glucosamine. Chondroitin is made from processed cattle tracheas (the windpipe) and glucosamine is made from processed crabs or shellfish. Processing breaks down the trachea and shell material so it forms small, absorbable molecules. When fed to pets, glucosamine and chondroitin helps build healthy, smooth joints. Unfortunately, not all processed glucosamine and chondroitin has been broken down into molecules small enough to be absorbed. If unabsorbed, the glucosamine and chondroitin pass through the intestines and out of the body providing no benefit to our pets—and wasting our money.

Fortunately, some joint products are excellent. Ask your veterinarian about the size of the molecules in the products carried at the clinic. Among the best joint products are Dasuquin and Cosequin. Dasuquin contains MSM, but Cosequin does not. MSM is added to control pain while the cartilage and joint fluids are being nourished by glucosamine and chondroitin.

Injectable Joint Supplements
The prescription joint medication Adequan avoids the issue of absorption because it is injected directly into the muscle. From the muscle, Adequan is picked up by the blood and carried throughout the body and into the joints. Many pets often experience a more rapid, marked relief from stiffness and discomfort when given an injectable medication. Adequan injections are followed by oral medication, such as Dasuquin or Cosequin.

Not all joint products are effective, and your veterinarian can help you select the joint medications that work.