Veterinarian’s Desk Reference of Natural Medicines

This guide is intended for use by licensed veterinarians only. While pet owners may find this information useful, they should not attempt to self-diagnose their animal companians. The Veterinary Institute of Integrative Medicine always recommends that your animal’s healthcare be directed under the guidance of a veterinarian.

SECTION I - CANINE AND FELINE

AGING, DISEASES OF

Species affected: Cats, Dogs

Background: Any system may be affected.
Symptoms: Any system may be affected.
Diagnostics: As needed for presenting signs.
Special Notes: Memoractiv is more appropriate in dogs that tend to develop canine cognitive dysfunction.
Principles for Supplementation: Basic nutritional supplementation and antioxidants.

Canine and Feline Products – Diseases of Aging

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)^12	Cats: 50 mg, sid	Improves energy, decreases fatigue.
Arthroplex^12	Cats: ½ capsule, bid	Broad spectrum formula. Source of glycosaminoglycans, including glucosamine. Decreases pain, supports production of collagen, decreases inflammation.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, bid
Canine Geriatric Basic Nutrients^12	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, bid	Canine specific, contains beta-carotene.
Canine Plus^14	Dogs: as directed by weight	Formula with vitamins, amino acids, digestive enzymes.
Cell Advance 440^14	Dogs (small & medium sized): 1 per 10 lbs/day	Formula with antioxidants, amino acids, minerals.
Cell Advance 880^14	Dogs (large sized): 1 per 20 lbs/day	Formula with antioxidants, amino acids, minerals.
Chinese Herbal Arthragen^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	For arthritis that is worse in cold damp weather.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
E400 Selenium^7	Cats: ¼ tablet, sid	Antioxidant. Anti-inflammatory. Vitamin E and Selenium are synergistic. Selenium in high doses is toxic. Vitamin E in high doses can raise blood pressure and can increase coagulation time. Do not exceed recommended dose. Use less in case of heart failure or if animal is on digoxin.
	Dogs: ¼ tablet/25 lbs, sid
Feline Geriatric Basic Nutrients^12	Cats: 1 - 2 capsules/day	Formula with taurine, vitamin A-palmitate for cats.
Memoractiv^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Enhances cognitive function.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25lbs, sid
Nu-Cat^14	Cats: 4 tablets/day; bid	Formula with vitamins, minerals, digestive enzymes, Perna Canaliculus, taurine.
Small Animal Antioxidant^12	Cats: ½ capsule/day	Balanced antioxidant formula.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs/day
Theanine^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	Stimulates production of alpha waves by brain, modifies neurotransmitters involved in attention and memory.
	Dogs: ¼ capsule/25 lbs, sid
Ultimate-E^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	Balanced forms of Vitamin E. No added soy oil (a pro-oxidant). Antioxidant.
	Dogs: ¼ capsule/25 lbs, sid

ARTHRITIS/DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE

Species affected: Cats, Dogs

Background: Decrease in viscosity and loss of lubricative effect of the joint fluid, calcium deposits on the articular ends of bones as well as in the soft tissue of the joint capsule and ligaments.
Symptoms: Pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion, generally worse upon arising or in cool weather and improves with movement, in some cases worse with exercise; bony growths visible.
Diagnostics: Physical examination, radiographs, ultrasound.
Special Notes: It may be necessary to address the origin of the problem as well as supporting the healing process. Causes may include: breed or familial predisposition, poor conformation, weakening of the ligaments and tendons, injury to the joint, poor-quality food, autoimmune conditions, allergies and "leaky bowel syndrome." In some animals on long-term supplementation, it may be advisable to change types of products periodically (yearly) to enhance the health of the joints in a variety or ways, especially if the response to one product is only moderate.

Principles for Supplementation: Anti-inflammatory, nourish the joint.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS – arthritis/degenerative joint disease

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Arthroplex^12	Cats: 1 capsule, sid	Anti-inflammatory. Source of glycosaminoglycans, including glucosamine. Decreases pain, supports production of collagen.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, bid
Buffered C Powder^12	Cats: 125 mg, bid	Stimulates phagocytic effect of leukocytes, nitrate scavenger, aids in synthesis of collagen and carnitine.
	Dogs: 10 mg/lbs, bid
Calcium Magnesium Citramate^12	Dogs: ¼ capsule/25 lbs, bid	Use in addition to a pure calcium or calcium/phosphorus supplement. Metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids, catalyst for many enzymes, required for ATP production.
Chinese Herbal Arthragen^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	For arthritis that worsens in cold damp weather.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
DL-Phenylalanine^12	Cats: 125 mg, bid	Analgesic.
	Dogs: 125 - 500 mg, bid
E400 Selenium^7	Cats: ¼ tablet, sid	Antioxidant. Anti-inflammatory. Vitamin E and Selenium are synergistic. Selenium in high doses is toxic. Vitamin E in high doses can raise blood pressure and can increase coagulation time. Do not exceed recommended dose. Use less in case of heart failure or if animal is on digoxin.
	Dogs: ¼ tablet/25 lbs, sid
Glucosamine and Chondroitin^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	This combination stimulates the production of cartilage cells while inhibiting destructive enzymatic action on those cells.
	Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs, sid
Glucosamine Sulfate^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	Important building block of cartilage.
	Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs, sid
Glycoflex II^14	Dogs: as directed by weight	Anti-inflammatory; nutrients for cartilage formation.
Glycoflex II Double Strength^14	Dogs: as directed by weight	Anti-inflammatory; nutrients for cartilage formation.
Glycoflex II for Cats^14	Cats: as directed by weight	Anti-inflammatory; nutrients for cartilage formation.
Phytoprophen^12	Cats: ½ bid	Anti-inflammatory herbs.
	Dogs: 1/25 lb. bid
Small Animal Antioxidant^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Antioxidants to reduce damage to joints.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid

BEHAVIORS

Anxiety, in general

Species affected: Cats, Dogs

Background: An emotional state of fear and tension.
Symptoms: Pets may demonstrate anxiety in a variety of bizarre behaviors and physical manifestations. Dogs and cats may chew on themselves, urinate or defecate inappropriately, or destroy items in their environment.

Diagnostics: A complete history including all aspects of the environment, the diet, social relations with other animals and humans (or lack thereof), and exposure to noxious sounds and odors, lifestyle changes or other stimuli. Certain breeds can be more prone to anxiety states. Hormonal changes need to be taken into consideration in some animals.
Special Notes: Animals in a chronic state of anxiety can suffer from numerous physical conditions such as allergies, self-mutilation and digestive upsets that are related to the primary condition of anxiety.
Principles for Supplementation: Relieve mental tension.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS – General Anxiety

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Anxiety & Stress^3	Canine and Feline formulas	Helps relieves mental stress and anxiety.
Bacopa^12	Cats: ¼ tablet, bid	Antioxidant effects result in enhanced nerve impulse transmission and repair of damaged neurons.
	Dogs: ¼ tablet/25 lbs, bid
Calm Spirit^4	Cats: ¼ - ½ tablet, bid or tid	No tranquilizing effect; helps relieve stress-associated emotions/reactions (e.g., anxiety, insomnia).
	Dogs: ½ - 2 tablets, bid or tid
Compassionate Sage^18	Cats: 2 drops, bid	Heart blood deficiency, qi deficiency.
	Dogs under 20 lbs: 2 drops, bid Dogs 20-50 lbs: 3 drops, bid Dogs over 50 lbs: 4 drops, bid
Hyper-Ex^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	Saint John's Wort is best known for treatment of depression that is difficult to diagnose; possible antianxiety effects in some cats and dogs.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
NutriCalm^10	Cats, Dogs: 1 capsule sid to bid	Contains tryptophan, an amino acid converted to serotonin in the brain.
Rhodiola^12	Dogs: ¼ capsule/25 lbs, bid or tid	Reduces stress and calms anxiety brought on by loud noises such as fireworks or thunderstorms.
Sedaplus^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Mild herbal tranquilizing combination; potential uses: separation anxiety in dogs; inappropriate urination and defecation in cats; for travel.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Shen Calmer^6	Dogs: 0.5 gm/day per 10 to 20 lb	Chinese herbal formula to help with restlessness and anxiety from sudden noises and thunderstorm anxiety.

Feline Psychogenic Alopecia

Species affected: Cats
Background: May have many causes, including allergic, endocrine, parasitic, neoplastic and others. Reasons for this behavior are poorly understood, but anxiety or underlying inflammatory problems such as inhalant allergies, food allergies, or cystitis may be a factor.
Symptoms: Total alopecia, in some cases due to cats licking themselves incessantly (usually in the area of the ventral abdomen and/or legs), is common to this condition.
Diagnostics: Should include endocrine testing for diabetes, Cushing's Disease, and hyperthyroidism, cultures for dermatophytosis, skin scrapings for demodicosis, an elimination diet trial or other diagnostics if appropriate.
Special Notes: If other disorders are ruled out, psychogenic alopecia is a possibility.
Principles for Supplementation: Reduce anxiety, anti-inflammatory.

FELINE PRODUCTS—Feline Psychogenic alopecia

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Calm Spirit^4	Cats: ¼ - ½ tablet, bid or tid	Helps relieve stress-associated emotions/reactions (e.g., anxiety, insomnia); no tranquilizing effect.
Sedaplus^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Antianxiety effects may help address behavioral aspects of this problem.
Super EPA^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	From fish oil, anti-inflammatory to address potential allergies.

Separation Anxiety

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: A condition of anxiety experienced when the animal is left alone. There may be self-mutilation, excessive vocalization, household destruction, and inappropriate elimination.
Symptoms: May include panting, salivating, rapid breathing and heart rate.
Diagnostics: Many through history.
Special Notes: Aggravating factors include the sudden departure of the owner(s) or exaggerated greeting/departing rituals that magnify the emotional effects of the abandonment. Some dogs may sense the owner's anxiety, complicating the problem. Animals that do not get adequate exercise may be more prone to the stress of confinement.
Principles for Supplementation: The condition responds well to behavior training and desensitization; pharmaceutical and herbal anxiolytics ease the process.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—Separation Anxiety

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Compassionate Sage^18	Cats and small dogs: 2 drops, bid Dogs 20-50 lbs: 3 drops, bid Dogs over 50 lbs: 4 drops, bid	Heart blood deficiency, qi deficiency.
Ease Plus^4	Cats: ¼ - ½ tablet, bid or tid	Mild sedative effect. Helps relieve nervousness and emotional stress.
	Dogs: ½ - 2 tablets, bid or tid
Memoractiv^12	Cats: ½ tablet, sid	For anxiety associated with cognitive disorders.
	Dogs: 1 - 2 capsules, sid
Rhodiola^12	Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs, bid or tid	Normalize neurotransmitters associated with anxiety.
Sedaplus^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	For mild anxiolytic effects.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid or bid

Travel Anxiety and carsickness

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: Nausea and anxiety from the motion of a moving vehicle.
Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, excess salivation, restlessness.
Diagnostics: A complete history.
Special Notes: See also nausea/motion sickness/chronic vomiting under the Digestive heading.
Principles for Supplementation: Relieve some of the anxiety regarding travel.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS – Travel Anxiety and Carsickness

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Compassionate Sage^18	Cats and small dogs: 2 drops, bid Dogs 20-50 lbs: 3 drops, bid Dogs over 50 lbs: 4 drops, bid	Heart blood deficiency, qi deficiency.
Ease Plus^4	Cats: ¼ - ½ tablet, bid or tid	Mild sedative effect; helps relieve nervousness and emotional stress.
	Dogs: ½ - 2 tablets, bid or bid

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—TRAVEL ANXIETY AND CARSICKNESS (Continued)

Rhodiola^12	Dogs: ¼ capsule/25 lbs, bid or tid	Normalize neurotransmitters associated with anxiety.
Sedaplus^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Mild anxiolytic effects.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid or bid
Shen Calmer^6	0.5 gm per day per 10 lbs to 20 lbs	Chinese herbal formula helps restlessness, travel stress.

CARDIOVASCULAR

Cardiomyopathy

Species affected: Dogs, cats
Background: Exists as both a primary or secondary disorder.
Symptoms: Include exercise intolerance, arrhythmias and congestive heart failure. In some cases, symptoms are not evident until cardiovascular stress occurs.
Diagnostics: Confirmed by cardiac workup, radiology, echocardiography and EKG.
Special Notes: Occurs in different forms in different species, all resulting in poor contractile function and cardiac chamber enlargement. In dogs, the idiopathic dilated form of cardiomyopathy is the most common and occurs more frequently in the larger breeds. It can be particularly severe in Dobermans and Boxers. The hypertrophic form is rare in dogs, but common in cats. Secondary forms of cardiomyopathy can stem from nutritional deficiencies, infections, drug reactions, metabolic problems and tumors.
Principles for Supplementation: Depending on its etiology, secondary cardiomyopathy may require a variety of treatments. Taurine and carnitine deficiencies have been documented in some cases. Cats consuming vegetarian diets are usually deficient in these nutrients.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS - cardiomyopathy

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Bio-Cardio^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Improves myocardial function; hawthorn may or may not be appropriate for cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, bid
Cardio-Support ^2	Cats: ½-1 scoop, sid (mixed w/ food)	Tonifies circulation, relaxes arteries, decreases heart rate, increases blood flow to heart, strengthens heart muscle.
	Dogs: 1-3 scoops, sid (mixed w/ food)
Chinese Herbal Recovery^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	Improves qi and blood flow.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
Co-Q10^12	Cats: 30 mg, sid	Cardiac tonic.
	Dogs: 100 mg/50lbs
CoQ-10 ST ^7	Cats and small dogs: 10-30 mg, bid	Present in mitochondria; essential factor in ATP pro-duction. Greatest need in metabolically active cells such as the heart, gingiva, immune system, lacrimal glands and gastric mucosa. Antioxidant and helps recycle vitamin E.
	Medium dogs: 30-60 mg, bid
	Large dogs: 60-90 mg, bid
Coleus Forskohlii Extract^12	Cats: 5 - 10 mg, bid	Increases cyclic AMP.
	Dogs: 10 - 15 mg, bid
Krill Oil^12	Cats: 1 gelcap, sid	Good source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Anti-inflammatory.
	Dogs: 1 gelcap/25 lbs, sid
L-Carnitine^12	Cats: 1 capsule, sid	Essential nutrient for dogs with cardiomyopathy.
	Dogs: 2 - 6 capsules, sid
Super EPA^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Fish oil has been shown to decrease cytokines, cachexia, and improve survival in CHF dogs.
	Dogs: 1 gelcaps/25 lbs sid
Taurine^12	Cats: 1 capsule, sid	Essential nutrient for cats and dogs; deficiency may cause cardiomyopathy in cats since they do not make their own taurine.
	Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs, sid

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: Any condition in which the heart is unable to pump the blood through the circulatory system adequately to meet the metabolic needs of the patient is considered CHF. This disease is more common in older animals but can occur in young animals that have heart damage or congenital disorders. It also occurs secondary to heartworm disease, lung disease, valvular disease or wasting of the myocardium.
Symptoms: Pulmonary edema and coughing or dyspnea, ascites, exercise intolerance, and collapse.

Diagnostics: Cardiovascular workup, radiology, echocardiography and EKG.
Special Notes: CHF in dogs and cats stems from differing disease processes. Dogs commonly develop CHF secondary to valvular disease, backward failure due to lung disease and heartworms, congenital outflow obstructions and other abnormalities, and dilated cardiomyopathy. Cats commonly develop CHF secondary to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and to a lesser extent, dilated cardiomyopathy and restrictive cardiomyopathy. Vascular disease such as atherosclerosis is extremely rare in dogs and cats.
Principles for Supplementation: Improve myocardial function with antioxidants; improve oxygenation, blood flow to myocardium.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS – congestive heart failure (CHF)

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Bio-Cardio^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Improves myocardial function; decreases oxidative stress.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, bid
Cardio-Support ^2	Cats: ½-1 scoop, sid (mixed with food)	Tonifies circulation, relaxes arteries, decreases heart rate, increases blood flow to heart, strengthens heart muscle.
	Dogs: 1 – 3 scoops, sid (mixed with food)
Chinese Herbal Recovery^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	Improves qi and blood flow, boosts kidney yang.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
Co-Q10^12	Cats: 30 mg, sid	Improves myocardial function oxygenation of cardiac muscle.
	Dogs: 100 mg/50 lbs, sid (use in dilated cardiomyopathy)
CoQ-10 ST ^7	Cats and small dogs: 10-30 mg, bid	Present in mitochondria; essential factor in ATP production. Greatest need in metabolically active cells such as the heart, gingiva, immune system, lacrimal glands and gastric mucosa. Antioxidant and helps recycle vitamin E.
	Medium dogs: 30-60 mg, bid
	Large dogs: 60-90 mg, bid
E400 Selenium^7	Cats: ¼ tablet, sid	Antioxidant. No added soy oil (a pro-oxidant). Vitamin E and selenium are synergistic. Selenium in high doses is toxic. Vitamin E in high doses can raise blood pressure and can increase coagulation time. Do not exceed recommended dosage. Use less in case of heart failure or if animal is on digoxin.
	Dogs: ¼ tablet/25 lbs, sid
Coleus Forskohlii extract^12	Cats: 5 - 10 mg, bid	Increases cyclic AMP.
	Dogs: ½ mg/lb, bid
Krill Oil^12	Cats: 1 gelcap, sid	Good source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Anti-inflammatory.
	Dogs: 1 gelcap/25 lbs, sid
Potassium aspartate^12	1 or more capsules per day, determined by monitoring blood levels.	Do not supplement without monitoring blood levels. Can cause GI distress. Animals with renal failure can often be hyperkalemic. In cats with renal failure, feeding high protein acidifying foods can cause hypokalemia. Hypokalemia increases kidney damage.
Small Animal Antioxidant^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Antioxidant, decreases oxidative stress.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Super EPA^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Fish oil has been shown to decrease cytokines, cachexia, and improve survival in CHF dogs.
	Dogs: 1 gelcap/25 lbs, sid
Ultimate-E^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	Antioxidant, decreases oxidative stress.
	Dogs: ¼ capsule/25 lbs, sid

Heartworm Disease

Species affected: Dogs, primarily (though the number of affected cats is increasing)
Background: A parasitic disease spread by mosquitoes. Heart failure can develop when mature worms (5-9" in length) obstruct the heart.
Symptoms: A characteristic deep, moist cough, lethargy and weakness.
Diagnostics: Cardiac workup, radiology, echocardiography and EKG, blood tests.
Special Notes: Prevention includes decreasing contact with mosquitoes, herbal repellents and chemical filaracides.
Principles for Supplementation: Support myocardial function, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action to help heal the myocardium and support the liver while more toxic compounds are used to eliminate the parasite.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS – heartworm Disease

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Bio-Cardio^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Improves myocardial function.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, bid
Hepagen C^12	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid or bid (during therapy if needed)	Supports the liver, helps detoxification pathways.
Hepagen F^12	Cats: 1 - 2 capsules, sid	Supports the liver.
Krill Oil^12	Cats: 1 gelcap, sid	Good source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Anti-inflammatory.
	Dogs: 1 gelcap/25 lbs, sid
Oxygenics^7	Cats: ¼ tablet, sid	Combination of antioxidants and herbs support liver function; contribute to the formation and use of superoxide dismutase.
	Dogs: ¼ - 1 tablet, bid
Small Animal Antioxidant^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Antioxidant.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Super EPA^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Anti-inflammatory; may help heal endothelium damaged by heartworms; may contribute anticoagulatory function to help prevent heartworm embolism after treatment.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid

Valvular Endocarditis

Species affected: Dogs, cats
Background: Most commonly occurs secondary to a systemic bacterial infection; more likely to occur if there is pre-existing congenital or chronic damage to the heart and valves. The disease can damage both the valves and the lining of the heart.
Symptoms: Valvular damage and congestive heart failure. Symptoms may be associated with infectious disease, such as fever, cough, purulent discharges, tachycardia, anorexia; and positive bacterial culture from the blood in the case of bacterial infection.
Diagnostics: Confirmed by cardiac workup, radiology, echocardiography and EKG, blood tests.
Special Notes: Treatment should be aggressive.
Principles for Supplementation: Antibacterial herbs, in addition to antibiotics, supportive care, and nutraceuticals, herbs and megavitamins to rebuild the immune system.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS – Valvular endocarditis

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Bio-Cardio^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Improves myocardial function.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, bid
Chinese Herbal Bactolyte^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	Long-term use is safe and effective antibacterial.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
Immugen^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Optimizes immune functions.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid

DENTAL

Periodontal Disease

Species affected: Cats, Dogs

Background: Leading cause of tooth loss in domesticated animals. Secondary infections complicate the dental status, worsen the disease and may seed other organs. Concurrent illnesses such as kidney disease often contribute.
Symptoms: Bad breath, inability to chew food, inflamed gums, and tooth loss.
Diagnostics: Physical exam.
Special Notes: The causes are primarily man-made, due to over-use of processed, cooked commercial foods; this is commonly seen with certain breeds, including the brachycephalic breeds or flat-faced breeds of cat. Domestic animals lack proper chewing exercise, and rarely get meaty bones that properly abrade the teeth.
Principles for Supplementation: Correction of diet, using high-quality, whole foods if possible, with bones or hard material for chewing. Vitamins (especially Vitamin C), antioxidants, minerals and herbs may be helpful in strengthening periodontal tissue and preventing calculus and infection.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—Periodontal Disease

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Berbercap^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Antimicrobial.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Canine Basic Nutrients^12	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid	General source of nutrients, dog.
Co-Q10^12	Cats: 30 mg, sid	Antioxidant; shown to have some capacity resolving periodontal disease.
	Dogs: 100 mg/50lbs, sid
CoQ-10 ST ^7	Cats and small dogs: 10-30 mg, bid	Present in mitochondria; essential factor in ATP production. Greatest need in metabolically active cells such as the heart, gingiva, immune system, lacrimal glands and gastric mucosa. Antioxidant and helps recycle vitamin E.
	Medium dogs: 30-60 mg, bid
	Large dogs: 60-90 mg, bid
Feline Basic Nutrients^12	Cats: 1 - 2 capsules, sid	General source of nutrients, cat.
Small Animal Antioxidant^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Antioxidant.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Supportive Care^12	Cats: 1 capsule, bid	Antioxidant.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, bid

Gingivitis/Stomatitis

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: Can be primary, from an infected tooth, or secondary to systemic illness.
Symptoms: Inflammation and swelling of the gums and mouth.
Diagnostics: Should include testing for viral and bacterial infections, immune-mediated disease, trauma, anatomic causes or nutritional deficiencies. If detected, these conditions should be corrected.
Special Notes: Local can be corrected with dentistry, while deeper illnesses may require more involved treatment plans.
Principles for Supplementation: Treatment of the local conditions with modern dentistry can be augmented with the addition of nutraceuticals, vitamins, herbs and minerals.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—Gingivitis/Stomatitis

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Buffered C Powder^12	Cats: 125 mg, bid	Stimulates phagocytic effect of leukocytes, nitrate scavenger, aids in synthesis of collagen and carnitine.
	Dogs: 10 mg/lb, bid
Chinese Herbal Vitammune^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	Strengthens the immune system; tonifies qi and blood, yin and yang.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
Co-Q10^12	Cats: 30 mg, sid	Antioxidant; shown to have some capacity resolving periodontal disease.
	Dogs: 100 mg/50lbs, sid
CoQ-10 ST ^7	Cats and small dogs: 10-30 mg, bid	Present in mitochondria; essential factor in ATP production. Greatest need in metabolically active cells such as the heart, gingiva, immune system, lacrimal glands and gastric mucosa. Antioxidant and helps recycle vitamin E.
	Medium dogs: 30-60 mg, bid
	Large dogs: 60-90 mg, bid
Immugen^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Optimizes immune function.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Small Animal Antioxidant^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid	Antioxidant.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Supportive Care II^12	Cats: ½ capsule, bid	Rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support and optimize the immune system and enhance normal cellular proliferation.
	Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs, bid

DIGESTIVE

Constipation

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: Causes of chronic constipation in dogs and cats include dehydration (may be secondary to renal disease), obstruction, dietary indiscretion and occasionally, colitis.
Symptoms: May include pain and difficulty with defecation.
Diagnostics: Palpation may reveal a feces-distended colon.
Special Notes: Some cases are complicated by long-term effects of a highly-processed or cooked diet that is low in roughage, lack of exercise, inability to eliminate at will, and confinement. Cats have a unique condition, megacolon, which is a functional deficit of colonic smooth muscle. The use of fiber may worsen the condition of megacolon.
Principles for Supplementation: Ideally, dogs and cats should be gradually switched to a natural diet containing meat and vegetables, or a high-quality canned food. Some animals may need long-term fiber supplementation. Digestive herbs and variety in the diet may help.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—Constipation

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Canned pumpkin	Cats: ¼ - 1 teaspoon/meal	Palatable source of insoluble fiber.
	Dogs: ½ - 4 tablespoons/meal
Gastriplex^12	Cats: ½ - 1 capsule, sid	Support enterocytes; improve local immune function.
	Dogs: 2 capsules/25 lbs, sid
Herbal Bulk^12	Cats: approx ¼ teaspoon/meal (titrate to effective dose)	Source of soluble fiber.
	Dogs: 1 teaspoon/50 lbs/meal

Diarrhea, Acute

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: In dogs and cats, this condition is often due to "garbageitis" (dietary indiscretion). It can also occur as an acute manifestation of parasitic diseases: whipworms (especially in adults), coccidia, roundworms, hookworms, giardia, salmonella, E. coli, etc. Many cases are of a self-limiting nature. Recurrent episodes may indicate a more serious problem such as inflammatory bowel disease or lymphoma.
Symptoms: Looseness of stool and/or an increase in the frequency of elimination.
Diagnostics: Stool, blood, and radiology, if foreign body suspected.
Special Notes: Some cases can rapidly cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance or even rectal prolapse; intervention and supportive care should be administered in cases that do not resolve quickly on their own.
Principles for Supplementation: Antibacterial (only if bacterial are causal); support the enterocytes, introduce beneficial gut bacteria, help repair the intestinal wall.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—Acute Diarrhea

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Artestatin^4	Cats: ¼ - ½ tablet, bid or tid	For giardia, and for protozoal and bacterial diarrhea.
	Dogs: ½ - 2 tablets, bid or tid
Berbercap^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	Contains berberine to treat bacterial infections.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Chinese Herbal Bactolyte^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	Antibacterial; use only if has bacterial cause.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
Chinese Herbal Gastrigen^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	Clears Damp, corrects spleen qi deficiency; supports the GI tract for symptomatic treatment.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
Curing Pills^19	Cats: 2 pills, bid or tid	Improves digestion, regulates spleen and stomach, disperses wind-cold, resolves dampness.
	Dogs: 2-4 pills, bid or tid
Formula SF722^12	Cats: 1 capsule, tid	Anti-Candida.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, tid
Formula SF734^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	Contains bismuth; helps slow diarrhea; not for long-term use.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Gastriplex^12	Cats: ½ - 1 capsule, sid	Supports enterocytes; improves local immune function.
	Dogs: 2 capsules/25 lbs, sid
Lactobacillus Sporogenes^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	Beneficial gut bacteria.
	Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs, sid
Potassium aspartate^12	1 or more capsules per day, determined by monitoring blood levels.	Do not supplement without monitoring blood levels. Can cause GI distress. Animals with renal failure can often be hyperkalemic. Acute diarrhea can cause electrolyte imbalance including low potassium.
Seacure for Pets^20	Cats: 1 scoop or tablet, sid	Bioactive peptides support enterocytes and intestinal integrity.
	Dogs: 1 scoop or tablet/10 lbs, sid

Diarrhea, Chronic

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: Causes of chronic diarrhea range from viruses, bacteria, and intestinal parasites to inflammatory processes, including immune-mediated conditions and cancer. Diarrhea is often due to food allergy as well as poor-quality food; if this is the case, dietary changes are required. Inflammatory bowel disease is very often tied to a food allergy in dogs and cats. Chronic parasitic diseases, cancer and other serious conditions may also manifest as chronic diarrhea and should be investigated. Exposure to toxins in the environment may also be involved.
Symptoms: Increased volume and/or frequency of stool.
Diagnostics: Stool evaluation, blood work, complete workup of any other systems that may be involved.
Special Notes: Emotional stress can directly affect the digestive tract and should also be evaluated. If animals have been ill for an extended period, and especially after a long course of antibiotics, the balance of normal intestinal flora is likely disrupted; this can allow an influx of pathogens to become established.
Principles for Supplementation: Probiotic supplementation is important, along with support for healing of the intestinal wall. Enzymes are important in many cases, especially for animals with poor digestion.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—Chronic Diarrhea

Formulas:	Dosage:		Mechanism/Purpose:
Chinese Herbal Gastrigen^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid		Clears Damp, corrects spleen qi deficiency, supports the GI tract.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
Curing Pills^19	Cats: 2 pills, bid or tid		Improves digestion, regulates spleen and stomach, disperses wind-cold, resolves dampness.
	Dogs: 2-4 pills, bid or tid
Dipan 9^12	Cats: ¼ capsule/meal		Pancreatic enzymes.
	Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs/meal
Early Comfort^18	Cats and small dogs: 2 drops, bid Dogs 20-50 lbs: 3 drops, bid Dogs over 50 lbs: 4 drops, bid		Expels dampness.
Gastriplex^12	Cats: ½ - 1 capsule, sid		Supports enterocytes; improves local immune function.
	Dogs: 2 capsules/25 lbs, sid
Iberogast Liquid^9	Cats: 2 drops, tid		Antiemetic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory; regulates motility.
	Dogs: 2 - 20 drops, tid
Organic Colostrum^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, bid		Immune enhancing and antimicrobial.
	Dogs: ¼ capsule/25 lbs, bid
Seacure for Pets^20	Cats: 1 scoop or tablet, sid	Bioactive peptides support enterocytes and intestinal integrity.
	Dogs: 1 scoop or tablet/10 lbs, sid

Giardiasis

Species affected: Dogs, cats
Background: The usual source of infection is contaminated drinking water or via contact with infected fecal material.
Symptoms: Diarrhea, soft "cow patty-like" stool, sometimes bloody stool, and weight loss.
Diagnostics: The single-cell organism or cyst can be detected using a saline smear of fresh fecal material or using special fecal flotation techniques. The diagnostic work-up should rule out any other predisposing factors.
Special Notes: While debilitating, it is rarely fatal and will almost always be self-limiting if supportive care is provided.
Principles for Supplementation: The organism is susceptible to many herbal products; treatment rarely requires heavy medication.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—Giardiasis

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Artestatin^4	Cats: ¼ - ½ tablet, bid or tid	For giardia, and protozoal and bacterial diarrhea.
	Dogs: ½ - 2 tablets, bid or tid
Berbercap^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, sid	Antimicrobial.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Colostrum^20	Cats: 1 scoop or tablet, sid	Broad spectrum immune support, intestinal immunity and function.
	Dogs: 1 scoop or tablet/10 lbs, sid
Gastriplex^12	Cats: ½ - 1 capsule, sid	Improves local immune function; supports enterocytes.
	Dogs: 2 capsules/25 lbs, sid

Incomplete Digestion/Maldigestion/malabsorption

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: A common problem with multiple causes; if an entire kennel is affected, environmental or dietary causes are likely.
Symptoms: Digestive symptoms such as excess gas production, loose or unformed stool or increased appetite accompanied by weight loss. Secondary conditions, resembling signs of malnutrition develop; these include skin and coat problems. Muscle weakness, mental derangement, pica, and/or skeletal demineralization may occur in severe cases.
Diagnostics: A thorough examination of the housing facility and analysis of the diet is essential. An analysis of the components of the stool as well as blood tests to evaluate potential liver, kidney, pancreatic (endocrine and exocrine) and electrolyte problems. Parasites should also be ruled out.
Special Notes: Signs of maldigestion may appear first in animals with weaker digestive capacity. The digestive tract may have developed improperly or been damaged through disease, surgery or other insult. Certain families and breeds have a greater likelihood for weak digestive processes.
Principles for Supplementation: Enhance healing of the intestinal wall, replace enzymes that may be lacking.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—Incomplete Digestion/maldigestion/malabsorption

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Chinese Herbal Gastrigen^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	Clears Damp, correct spleen qi deficiency and supports the GI tract.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
Dipan 9^12	Cats: ¼ capsule/meal	Pancreatic enzymes.
	Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs/meal
Gastriplex^12	Cats: ½ - 1 capsule, sid	Supports GI tract, clears Damp.
	Dogs: 2 capsules/25 lbs, sid
Nutrigest^10	As directed by weight	Probiotics, FOS, psyllium, ginger, oregon grape root, and other items that support intestinal function.
Planti-zyme^12	Cats: ¼ capsule/meal	Source of digestive enzymes.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs/meal

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Species affected: Dogs, cats
Background: Congenital or acquired inflammation of the intestine, especially the small intestine; similar to Crone's disease in humans. There is no known pathological organism involved, however, secondary infections may result from chronic inflammation.
Symptoms: Diarrhea and/or vomiting, blood and/or mucus in the stool, hypermotility on the bowels, malabsorption and eventual destruction or severe scarring of the intestine itself.
Diagnostics: Rule out other similar conditions such as parasites (especially giardia), food allergies, toxic ingestion, or other infections.
Special Notes: Certain breed types, especially those with nervous dispositions, are prone to this condition—often as a consequence of improper diet or emotional stress.
Principles for Supplementation: Support healing of intestinal mucosa, increase fiber in some cases, provides antioxidants.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Formulas:		Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Bio-B12^12		Cats and dogs: 1/8 capsule/25 lbs, bid (up to ½ capsule, bid)	Animals with IBD often need supplemental B12. B12 is in a base of enzymes for enhanced absorption.
Chinese Herbal Gastrigen^12		Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	Clears Damp, corrects spleen qi deficiency, supports the GI tract.
		Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
Colostrum^20		Cats: 1 scoop or tablet, sid	Supports intestinal immunity and function.
		Dogs: 1 scoop or tablet/10 lbs, sid
Dipan 9^12		Cats: ¼ capsule/meal	Pancreatic enzymes for digestion of fat, protein and carbohydrates.
		Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs/meal
Early Comfort^18	Cats and small dogs: 2 drops, bid Dogs 20-50 lbs: 3 drops, bid Dogs over 50 lbs: 4 drops, bid		Expels dampness.
Gastriplex^12	Cats: ½ - 1 capsule, sid		Modulates immune function, supports enterocyte function.
	Dogs: 2 capsules/25 lbs, sid
Herbal Bulk^12	Cats: ¼ teaspoon/meal		Source of soluble fiber.
	Dogs: 1 teaspoon/50 lbs/meal
Folic Acid Liquid^12	Cats: 1 drop, bid		Involved in intermediary metabolism pathways, including nucleotide synthesis, phospholipid synthesis, amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter production, creatinine formation. Paired with B12 in production of methionine from homocysteine.
	Dogs: 1 drop/25 lbs, bid
Nutrigest^10	As directed by weight		Probiotics, source of fiber, ginger, oregon grape root, and other items that support intestinal function.
Organic Colostrum^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, bid		Immune enhancing and antimicrobial.
	Dogs: ¼ capsule/25 lbs, bid
Quiet Digestion^4	Cats: ¼ - ½ tablet, bid or tid		Helps with gastric distress, abdominal pain, bacterial or viral enteritis.
	Dogs: ½ - 2 tablets, bid or tid
Seacure for Pets^20	Cats: 1 scoop or tablet, sid		Bioactive peptides support enterocytes and intestinal integrity.
	Dogs: 1 scoop or tablet/10 lbs, sid
Small Animal Antioxidant^12	Cats: ½ capsule, sid		Antioxidant.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, sid
Ultra Clear Sustain^7	Cats: 1/8 – ¼ scoop, bid, mixed with food or water		Contains vitamins, minerals, amino acids needed to help detoxify, with additional gastro-intestinal support for IBD patients. When detoxifying, additional amounts of antioxidants and co-factors for liver Phase I and Phase II enzymes are needed and these are supplied by this product.
	Dogs: ¼ scoop/25 lbs, up to 1 scoop, sid to bid, mixed with food or water
Zinc Citrate^12	Dogs: ½ capsule/25 lbs, bid (up to 1 capsule, bid)		Essential for growth, immune system as a cofactor of superoxide dismutase. Do not over-supplement (can cause copper deficiency).

Nausea/Motion sickness/Chronic vomiting

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: Motion sickness is triggered by the sensations from the nerves of the balance mechanism of the inner ear. This is a naturally protective mechanism that may be hypersensitive in some animals. Chronic vomiting may be due to the secondary effects of a deeper illness or it may reflect an ongoing inflammation of the digestive tract. These causes are usually not infectious, but may involve such processes as: a foreign body in the digestive tract, kidney or liver problems, cancer, allergies, autoimmune states, or chronic toxicity due to drug side effects or exposure to chemicals. The cause should be determined and treated accordingly.
Symptoms: Salivation, nausea, vomiting.
Diagnostics: For chronic vomiting, digestive function tests are useful, as are blood values to check for internal diseases or signs of toxicity; a very thorough history (for example, some animals are exposed to toxins when neighbors spray or treat properties with toxic chemicals).
Special Notes: Small animals should travel on an empty stomach if they are sensitive to motion sickness.
Principles for Supplementation: Line intestinal tract with soothing herbs or with Chinese herbs to help prevent nausea.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—NAUSEA/MOTION SICKNESS/CHRONIC VOMITING

Formulas:	Dosage:	Mechanism/Purpose:
Chinese Herbal Gastrigen^12	Cats: 1 - 2 pills, bid	Settles the stomach, helps nausea by correcting the flow of qi downward.
	Dogs: 1 pill/10 lbs, bid
GI-Encap^12	Cats: ¼ capsule, q. 8 hours, p.r.n.	Contains intestinal protectants.
	Dogs: 1 capsule/25 lbs, q. 8 hours, p.r.n.
Folic Acid Liquid^12	Cats: 1 drop, bid	Involved in intermediary metabolism pathways, including nucleotide synthesis, phospholipid synthesis, amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter production, creatinine formation. Paired with B12 in production of methionine from homocysteine.
	Dogs: 1 drop/25 lbs, bid