Pet glucosamine is a non steroidal drug that is also known as chitosamine or glucosamine sulfate. However, glucosamine is a substance that is also found in the organism of pets, being a mixture of glucose and amino acid glutamine.
The amount of glucosamine produced will diminish with aging and this is the reason why pets start developing arthritis or other cartilage and connective tissue problems. Glucosamine may be supplemented if the pet has a joint or cartilage health problem, but may also be administered to senior dogs.
Uses of Glucosamine Tablets
Glucosamine is effective in osteoarthritis management. Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilages become stiff and cause pain and swelling. This typically occurs when the pet is older, when the body doesn’t produce as much glucosamine as during youth. Consequently, the supplements of glucosamine may also be used to prevent osteoarthritis and may be administered to obese pets that are more likely to develop arthritis.
Glucosamine may also be used in pets with wounds that affect muscles, tendons or cartilages. The drug will have anti inflammatory and analgesic effects and will help to reduce the recovery process.
Typically, glucosamine is administered as tablets, but there are also glucosamine chews or injections available.
Precautions for Using Pet Glucosamine Tablets
Glucosamine is beneficial for the cartilages and connective tissues of pets, but shouldn’t be administered for a longer period than 6 months, as the texture of the cartilages may be affected. The vet will recommend a cure of glucosamine for up to 6 months and if need be, a new cure after 6 months without glucosamine. Never administer glucosamine tablets without consulting your vet first and never administer more than recommended by the vet.
The vet should carefully evaluate other medications the pet may be getting, as certain drugs may make the glucosamine tablets less effective.
If the pet is a watch dog, you should know he won’t be able to perform his task, as he won’t be as alert as before. Glucosamine tablets may make the pet sleepy.
A glucosamine overdose can be deadly or cause severe internal damage.
The glucosamine tablets may be softer or harder and if you opt for a tablet that is too hard for your pet, this may result in a jaw fracture. Always ask your vet about the right type of glucosamine tablets or simply opt for the liquid formula.
If you notice any unusual behavior in your pet after starting the administration of glucosamine tablets, you should notify your vet.
Contraindications
Glucosamine tablets shouldn’t be administered to pets that are affected by:
- Diabetes, as the synthetic glucosamine is made of different compounds, including glucose and a supplementation of glucose is not recommended for diabetic dogs
- Liver disease, as the tablets will increase the workload of the liver
- Kidney disease
Pregnant pets should also not get glucosamine tablets, without being carefully monitored throughout the entire treatment.