Kratom for Dogs: Is It a Safe Alternative for Pain Relief?

Overview:

Do you want to give kratom to your dogs? Are you uncertain about the herb’s efficacy for your canines? Although many believe the crop has various pain-alleviating properties, its safety is understandably a concern, especially for animals.

Before administering this supplement to your dogs, learn more about its potential benefits and side effects. Visit this page for information about the best kratom strains and products available. 

Read on to discover if the herb is a safe and effective alternative to traditional medications for your canines.

healthy dog - kratom

Can Dog's Ingest Kratom?

Many individuals claim to give the supplement to their pets, so anecdotal evidence affirms your dogs can have kratom. A lack of research on the botanical sparks doubts about its safety for animals.

The plant may not have any short-term adverse effects on pets when used in a small dosage. Kratom’s long-term impacts on dogs and other animals are unknown.

Does Kratom Relieve Pain in Dogs?

Studies show kratom contains numerous alkaloids, such as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, capable of reducing pain symptoms. The chemicals attach to the brain’s opioid receptors in humans to relieve discomfort.

Since dogs also possess these receptors, the herb may similarly affect them. Although some people observed improved behavior and reduced pain symptoms after their dogs ate kratom, fewer studies support the notion.

As with other research, investigators used rodents to test the therapeutic effects of kratom. The findings of a 2007 rat study report the plant could relieve sadness and withdrawal symptoms in animals. The results of other scientific studies agree with the claim.

A 2017 rodent study notes kratom may reduce chronic discomfort in animals, with scientists noticing fewer adverse impacts than similar analgesics. These findings suggest the plant could be an effective alternative to dog painkillers.

Dogs are mammals like rodents and often show similar reactions to different substances. The pain-alleviating properties of kratom, demonstrated in mice and rats, may help lower discomfort in canines.

While a 1992 study reported the supplement isn’t fatal for dogs, large doses could cause liver and kidney damage in animals.

Using kratom for dogs is legal, as federal regulations don’t prohibit its application for humans and animals. Although the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns the herb may be unsafe, its reliability and potency are still under review.

The legality of kratom varies from one state to another. While it’s unlawful to use the plant in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin, it’s permitted elsewhere. Confirm the herb’s status in your region before owning or administering it to dogs.

How to Use Kratom for Dogs

Kratom comes in different forms, such as leaves, powder, and capsules. Since the herb is bitter, it’s not advisable to administer it directly to dogs as they may reject it.

After selecting the best dog food or peanut butter, add kratom to it. Disguising it allows your pets to consume the herb without noticing its unpleasant taste.

Dogs and other animals may struggle to metabolize the alkaloids inside kratom. Promote easy and quick digestion by mixing probiotics with it.

How Much Kratom to Give Dogs for Pain Relief

One of the biggest challenges with using kratom for pets is administering the correct dosage. Experimenting with different amounts may assist you in finding what’s suitable for your dogs.

Consider your canine’s size and weight to decide the best dose for her. Smaller dogs require lesser amounts of the herb, whereas bigger ones can handle larger quantities.

Start with 1–2 mg of kratom and observe its effects on your pets. You may increase the dosage if this amount doesn't seem to relieve discomfort.

Consult Your Vet

Kratom is an increasingly popular wellness supplement that individuals incorporate into their daily regimens as a herbal remedy. More pet owners are considering giving the herb to their animals.

Although many believe the herb might alleviate discomfort in pets, there’s not enough evidence to support the claim. Since it’s challenging to establish if kratom is safe for dogs, take caution when introducing it to your canine.

Talk to your vet before giving kratom to your dog. After considering your canine’s health condition and situation, the professional can offer guidance on the best thing to do.