Sulfated glycosaminoglycan that is a major component of cartilage extracellular matrix. Inhibits leukocyte elastase and hyaluronidase, reduces fibronectin levels, and may inhibit NF-κB activation. Contributes to cartilage water retention and compressive resistance.
At a glance
Class
Chondroprotective Nutraceutical / Glycosaminoglycan
Storage
Store in cool, dry place, protect from moisture
Dosing
Combined with glucosamine +/- MSM, omega-3, or ASU
Combined OA supplementation in cats
Safety
Pain and mobility scoresCoagulation if concurrent anticoagulant therapy
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
Other markets
various combination products
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Chondroitin Sulfate?
Chondroitin Sulfate is a chondroprotective nutraceutical / glycosaminoglycan used in pets. Sulfated glycosaminoglycan that is a major component of cartilage extracellular matrix. Inhibits leukocyte elastase and hyaluronidase, reduces fibronectin levels, and may inhibit NF-κB activation. Contributes to cartilage water retention and compressive resistance.
›What is Chondroitin Sulfate used for in pets?
Chondroitin Sulfate is used in veterinary medicine for: Combined with glucosamine +/- MSM, omega-3, or ASU; Combined OA supplementation in cats.
›What is the Chondroitin Sulfate dose for dogs?
For dogs, Chondroitin Sulfate is typically dosed as follows — Combined with glucosamine +/- MSM, omega-3, or ASU: 15–30 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Chondroitin Sulfate dose for cats?
For cats, Chondroitin Sulfate is typically dosed as follows — Combined OA supplementation in cats: 100–200 mg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Chondroitin Sulfate need a prescription?
Chondroitin Sulfate is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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