Can pets take Coenzyme q10 supplement?

Understand Coenzyme q10

 

Coenzyme Q10, also known as ubiquinone, is a coenzyme found in all aerobically breathing organisms, and a small amount can be obtained from foods such as beef, nuts, and oily fish. Coenzyme Q10 is widely present in the heart, liver, kidney and other organs and tissues of living organisms, especially in the heart. It can accelerate the renewal of myocardial cells and stimulate myocardial activity, so as to protect the heart and improve energy and immunity.

 

Why do pets supplemental Coenzyme Q10?

 

1.Age-Related Decline: As pets age, their natural CoQ10 production decreases. Senior dogs and cats often experience reduced energy levels, weakened immune responses, and slower recovery from illness—issues linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.

2.Chronic Health Conditions: Pets with heart disease, kidney disorders, or diabetes often exhibit lower CoQ10 levels. For example, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs is associated with mitochondrial stress, and CoQ10 supplementation has shown promise in supporting cardiac function.

3.Dietary Gaps: Commercial pet foods may lack sufficient CoQ10 due to processing or ingredient quality. Even fresh diets might not provide enough to meet the demands of active or stressed animals.

4.Medication Interactions: Certain drugs, such as statins (rarely used in pets) or chemotherapy agents, can deplete CoQ10 reserves, necessitating replenishment.

 

As pets enter middle age, Coenzyme Q10 in the body decreases sharply, and cats may start to develop symptoms such as decreased exercise capacity, shortness of breath, and frequent dry cough due to reduced myocardial activity. They may appear earlier due to congenital genetic problems, so extra coenzyme Q10 supplementation becomes particularly important.

Veterinarians increasingly recognize CoQ10 as a safe, non-pharmaceutical adjunct therapy. It supports energy metabolism in working dogs, aids recovery in post-surgical pets, and enhances quality of life for animals with chronic conditions.

 

Harms of Coenzyme Q10 deficiency

 

  • Cardiovascular Issues: The heart, being one of the most energy-demanding organs, suffers significantly when CoQ10 levels drop. Pets may develop arrhythmias, weakened contractions, or congestive heart failure.

  • Immune System Weakness: Low CoQ10 impairs the function of immune cells, leaving pets vulnerable to infections, slow wound healing, or autoimmune flare-ups.

  • Neurological Decline: Oxidative stress in the brain contributes to cognitive dysfunction in aging pets, akin to dementia in humans. CoQ10’s antioxidant properties may mitigate this decline.

  • Muscle Fatigue and Weakness: Active pets, such as agility dogs or outdoor cats, may struggle with stamina and muscle recovery without adequate CoQ10.

  • Dental and Gum Health: Periodontal disease, common in pets, is exacerbated by oxidative stress. CoQ10’s anti-inflammatory effects can support oral health.

 

How to give Coenzyme q10 to pets?

 

Dietary supplements can supplement coQ10 to some extent, usually can be fed more beef, nuts, oily fish. But a normal daily 45mg coenzyme supplement requires a one-time intake of 1.7kg of beef or 2.1kg of peanuts, which is almost impossible for pets. Therefore, a relatively adequate and efficient supplement program such as Coenzyme Q10 supplement can be selected instead.

 

For pet supplement manufacturers and veterinarians seeking high-quality CoQ10, Sost Biotech stands as a global leader in raw material supply. Our pharmaceutical-grade Coenzyme Q10 is rigorously tested for purity, bioavailability, and stability, ensuring optimal efficacy in pet health formulations.

 

Partner With Us


Whether you’re formulating a new product or enhancing an existing line, Sost Biotech provides tailored solutions to meet your needs. Our technical team offers formulation support, ensuring your products deliver measurable health benefits.

Visit our website at www.sostapi.com or email us at ericyang@xasost.com to request samples, pricing, or consultation. Elevate your pet supplements with the power of Coenzyme Q10!

 

References

    1. Crane, F. L. (2001). Discovery of Ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q10) and the Diethylstilbestrol (DES) Story. Journal of Nutrition, 131(2), 510S-513S.

    2. Littarru, G. P., & Tiano, L. (2007). Bioenergetic and Antioxidant Properties of Coenzyme Q10: Recent Developments. Molecular Biotechnology, 37(1), 31-37.

    3. Singh, U., et al. (2007). Coenzyme Q10 and Cardiovascular Disease: A Review. Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, 22(1), 76-85.

    4. Proschowsky, H. F., et al. (2003). Mortality in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: A VetCompass Study. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 17(3), 315-322.