Coenzyme Q10 for Dogs

Coenzyme q10 is a substance that is also known as ubiquinone and has a lot of benefits both for humans and pets. The coenzyme Q10 is essential for the cells in the dog's body and is also an antioxidant that can be helpful for dogs with a heart condition. The coenzyme Q10 is normally produced in the dog's body, but it may also be supplemented if there is a shortage in the dog's system (i.e. due to aging).

Coenzyme Q10 Role in Dogs

Coenzyme Q10 is naturally produced in the dog's body and is a substance with great benefits.

The role of the coenzyme Q10 is to provide energy for the cells in the dog's body. The substance will also help in creating enzymes for the cells and has great antioxidant powers.

The coenzyme Q10 has been used to support dogs with heart conditions and with muscular problems. Studies have shown that a shortage of coenzyme Q10 may lead to more severe symptoms in dogs with congestive heart failure.

In addition, a healthy amount of coenzyme Q10 has been associated with delayed aging; the tissues of the dog stay young for longer if there are enough amounts of coenzyme Q10.

Sources of Coenzyme Q10

The coenzyme Q10 may be found in different foods which you may feed to your pet to ensure that he has sufficient amounts of this substance.

Foods that are rich in coenzyme Q10 include:

  • Sardines
  • Peanuts
  • Fish oil
  • Liver
  • Seeds

The formation of the coenzyme Q10 is a complex process that involves a few compounds; the coenzyme Q10 is produced in the body combining essential vitamins and minerals. If these vitamins and minerals don't exist in the dog's system, he may have a lack of coenzyme Q10.

Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation

The production of coenzyme Q10 in the dog's body diminishes with aging. The coenzyme Q10 should be found in the tissues of organs such as the heart, the brain, the kidneys and the liver.

As the dog gets older, the body's capacity to produce coenzyme Q10 diminishes and the dog may have a weaker immune system. Typically, senior dogs have a weaker immune system, which is partly due to a lack of coenzyme Q10.

The lack of sufficient amounts of coenzyme Q10 will also cause lethargy, free radical damage and the risk of heart problems is higher than in younger dogs.

The coenzyme Q10 may be supplemented; however, you should consult your vet to determine when you should start supplementing the coenzyme Q10.

The coenzyme Q10 should also be supplemented in canines with heart problems (i.e. congestive heart failure) or muscle dysfunctions.

Coenzyme Q10 Side Effects

The coenzyme Q10 may be safely used in canines, but only if prescribed by the vet.

So far, there haven't been reports to show that the coenzyme Q10 may have side effects in canines.

 

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