Chlorophyll is a ‘super green’ natural plant component that is safely used by pets and humans.  It serves as a nutritional supplement and as a nutraceutical for healing and optimum immune function in dogs, cats, horses, livestock, fish, birds, rabbits and other small animals.

Chlorophyll For Pets

The benefits of chlorophyll are thought to be virtually the same for pets and humans:

• Digestive aid
• Improved nutrient absorption
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-viral
• Antioxidant
• Anti-tumor
• Binds carcinogens and may help prevent liver and colon cancer
• Protects against toxin-induced kidney failure
• Prebiotic
• Lowers blood sugar
• Lowers cholesterol
• Lowers blood pressure
• Aids immune system function
• Cleanses and refurbishes red blood cells
• May improve skin & coat
• May help with weight loss

Sources of Chlorophyll for Pets

Seaweed – A full range of chlorophyll types can be obtained by simply mixing brown, red and green seaweed.  Since seaweed pigment is more complex than terrestrial plant pigmentation, each species has numerous forms of chlorophyll which in turn offers unique beneficial qualities.  Another advantage of seaweed over other supplements is the nutritional support that facilitates extended benefits. For example, horse trainers like the red blood cell improvement offered by chlorophyll, but to increase stamina through better oxygenation and electrolyte balance, the horse is better served by a whole, mixed seaweed supplement.

Spirulina sp. – This algae is packed with nutrients and chlorophyll but must be used in moderation.  It is toxic in large amounts and may be cyanogenic.  For this reason, we blend Spirulina with mixed powdered seaweed for a powerful supplement that is less likely to be overdosed, while also offering a broader range of nutrients and other benefits to the animal.

Chlorella – Chlorella algae is tough to digest so it’s high Chlorophyll content is largely unavailable to pets.  However, there are supplements available that utilize a process involving cell wall cracking that makes the chlorophyll in Chlorella more available.

Terrestrial sources – Barley Grass, Wheat Grass and Alfalfa aren’t as packed with chlorophyll as the above foods, but they’re still great sources. Pets may enjoy nibbling on a tray of Wheat or Barley Grass if it’s provided for them.

Chlorophyll Dosage for Pets

Chlorophyll may be part of your pet’s daily diet but very little is required due to the nutrient density and bio-availability. Below is a supplement/extract guideline (as opposed to a whole food source).

Cats – Add 1/8 tsp to each pound of food.

Dogs – Add 1/4 tsp to each pound of food.

Fish – Aquarium fish benefit from chlorophyll, usually obtained through seaweed and algae. It may also be used to ‘gut load’ (bio-encapsulate) live foods. In supplement form, a pinch for each pound of food is plenty.

Birds – Whole food sources are usually recommended for birds.  Use extreme caution when administering chlorophyll in supplement form or from high level sources such as Spirulina or Chlorella. Nervous reactions may occur and some species are more sensitive than others.  Further research as it applies to your species is highly recommended.

Horses and other large animals – For larger animals you can do a human proportional estimate, but we suggest that you not exceed the human dosage no matter how large the animal.

Note of Caution:  Large quantities of Chlorophyll may cause digestive issues in pets.

??? Do you supplement your pet’s diet with chlorophyll?  Please share your experience in the comments below.

Sources:
Wynn, Susan G. DVM. Emerging Therapies: Using Herbs and Nutraceuticals for Small Animals. American Animal Hospital Assn. 1999.
Cooksley, Valerie Gennari. Seaweed: Nature’s Secret to Balancing Your Metabolism, Fighting Disease, and Revitalizing Body and Soul. 2007.
Messonnier, Shawn DVM. Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats: Your A-Z Guide to Over 200 Conditions, Herbs, Vitamins, and Supplements. 2001.
Tilford, Gregory. Wulff, Mary. Herbs for Pets: The Natural Way to Enhance Your Pet’s Life. 2009.
Balch, Phyllis. Prescription for Nutritional Healing. 2010.
Kellon, Eleanor M. V.M.D. Horse Journal Guide to Equine Supplements and Nutraceuticals. 2008.

✔ You may also be interested in reading:
The Best Natural Foods and Supplements to Help Your Dog Live Longer
Top 5 Sources of Antioxidants for Cats & Other Carnivores (With Infographic)
Pet Treat Recipe: Super-Greens Muffins for Dogs and Horses

———————————————————-

© All Natural Pet Care Blog – Content on this website may not be used elsewhere without expressed permission. Thank you for respecting the effort that we have put into our original content.

DISCLOSURE: We may receive compensation for links to products on this website.

DISCLAIMER: Statements on this website may not have been evaluated by the FDA, Health Canada nor any other government regulator. The information and products provided by AllNaturalPetCare.com are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, nor prevent any disease and are intended for educational purposes only. READ MORE…

COMMENTS ARE MODERATED – Legitimate comments will be published after a short delay. Spam will not be published.