NEW 'Wonder' Drug for Dogs and Cats...Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain.. it is known as the 'SLEEP HORMONE'
The precursor to melatonin is serotonin, a neurotransmitter that’s derived from the amino acid tryptophan.
When it’s dark, the secretion and production of melatonin increases.
When it’s light, the secretion and production of melatonin decreases.
In veterinary practice we primary used melatonin in dogs and cats for hair loss (alopecia).. most pets don't have a problem getting to sleep..
But new research has now shown an array of benefits for our dogs and cats
1.Hair Loss in Dogs ( Alopecia X), Hair Loss for Cats
2. Sleep- especially older dogs/cats with cognitive dysfunction, excessive pacing, yowling at night
3. Cushing's Disease, melatonin can help decrease the excess cortisol, especially if you can’t afford Trilostane. There are FEW treatments for Cushing's Disease, so this should be on your list.
4. ANXIETY disorders, ie Separation Anxiety
5. CANCER in Dogs and Cats, ie mammary cancer, pancreatic cancer
There is an array of research showing the potential for melatonin to be helpful with the hormone linked cancers, and I would definitely use it with my dog/cat IF they are to ever get cancer.
Side effects are few, GI, fertility, interact with corticosteroids ( make steroids LESS effective)
Dog and Cat doses:
1-2mg/20lbs of body weight twice daily
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