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Technically, kratom alkaloids are safe for dogs in small dosages. In fact, many dog owners around the world have already started giving kratom to their canine friends.
Kratom for dogs shows similar effects to when humans take kratom. But others believe we need more research before owners start adding kratom to their pets’ diets.
Research on Kratom for Dogs
New drugs and substances are usually tested on rodents before they’re given to any other living thing. Once a substance passes the rodents test, researchers would then perform the tests on dogs. Ultimately, these animal studies will lead the research to identify both the adverse effects and health benefits of kratom on humans.
After the successful animal studies on rodents, researchers moved on to dogs. This is because we share about 85% of our DNA with dogs. So these studies will present more accurate results of the effects of kratom on humans.
Studies on Kratom for Dogs by the University of Florida
Researchers from UF performed the following two studies using kratom on two groups of dogs:
- Giving the dogs a single oral dose of 5mg mitragynine per kilogram of their body weight
- Injecting the dogs 0.1mg mitragynine per kilogram of their body weight
Both these tests will help us better understand how kratom alkaloids affect humans. The UF researchers commented that it would be the first pharmacokinetic research of mitragynine in animals, other than a rodent. It would also help provide more solid information regarding the right dosage for giving kratom to humans.
The test on dogs is a monumental step toward clinical trials on humans. Once research becomes available, the UF researchers will surely consider it.
Kratom in Dogs
In the intravenous test, mitragynine presented clearance and distribution at a large volume. In pharmacokinetics, this is good news.
Clearance refers to how much of the substance can be safely expelled by the body once it’s used. By being able to detect clearance, doctors will be able to give more accurate dosages in the future.
As for the dog that orally ingested kratom, 69.9% of the drug circulating in the body and took effect. This is a rather high number, especially compared to CBD oil, with a bioavailability rate of 6%.
In summary, our furry friends can successfully flush out 7-hydroxy mitragynine and mitragynine after use. But taking kratom orally showed more concentrated results. So the way it enters the body greatly affects the outcome.
Dogs’ Reaction to Kratom
According to the researchers, the dogs tolerated the kratom well, which applies to both the orally ingested kratom and the intravenous method.
Despite showing different physiological changes, there were no major adverse effects. The dogs, however, exhibited signs of calmness and relaxation. The furry friend that orally took kratom had the effects for two to four hours, while the one injected experienced the effects for up to one hour.
Other than that, usual signs of relentless panicking in both dogs were also reduced. This means there was less spinning and jumping around. Some of the orally administered pups also displayed excessive drooling, though the researchers believe this was just due to the poor taste of kratom.
As for negative symptoms, the researchers said nausea was observed. However, the drooling stopped after a brief 30 minutes. The dogs also had a good appetite two hours after their kratom dose. However, one dog exhibited panting for a short time.
Should Pet Owners Consider Giving Kratom to Their Dogs?
The research definitely displayed great clinical development in these studies. However, owners need to keep in mind that the experiment took place in a lab, a controlled facility.
Also, most kratom for dogs is not similar to those used in clinical trials. The only chemical given to the dogs was mitragynine, which means they were given only tested pure alkaloids. But in reality, most kratom products may contain other parts of the whole kratom plant.
Despite the research tagging kratom as safe for dogs, we must also consider other uncontrolled elements contributing to its overall effects. These factors include whether the dogs had pre-existing diseases or were taking medication for other ailments.
More extensive studies on kratom for dogs have yet to be performed. So pet owners should still exercise caution when giving their furry friends this herbal supplement.
Is Kratom for Dogs Addictive?
Kratom use, especially in high dosages, can be addictive in humans. Since we share a big part of our DNA with dogs, it can be addictive to them, too.
However, if you want to try giving kratom to your dogs, start by giving them low doses and observe how they react to it.
Pooches Becoming Addicted to Kratom
A particular news item that blew up in Thailand showed that high doses of kratom in dogs could cause addiction. According to the report, the fur parent left a bowl of kratom leaves on the table for himself. However, he didn’t think that the dogs would get to it.
The owner later revealed that the dogs became irritable when they were not given Mitragyna speciosa. So he had no choice but to keep giving them a few leaves now and then as their dosage.
It’s safe to assume that the dogs will most likely display withdrawal symptoms when restricted from the plant. This kind of dependence could ultimately affect their mental health. Local animal welfare has already warned the owner that he could face animal abuse charges.
In general, kratom use is accepted in humans. However, this doesn’t mean that dogs can tolerate the plant completely. And with the limited tests performed on dogs, kratom toxicity is still undetermined in pooches.
Though unapproved, you can purchase kratom-infused dog treats online or in stores. Just bear in mind that, at the moment, no legitimate research or food association has approved kratom or pronounced kratom safe for dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kratom?
The kratom plant, or Mitragyna speciosa, is a member of the coffee family that’s native to countries in Southeast Asia. Natives originally used the plant and its leaves as natural remedies in small doses.
Some local manual laborers even used to chew kratom leaves to increase energy levels and improve mood while working. Today, kratom derivatives are popular in the U.S. for leisure.
What are the different types of kratom?
Different kratom strains are classified by their vein color.
- Green Vein Kratom – These are popular for their gentle, stimulating techniques.
- White Vein Kratom – This gives a mild effect that boosts energy levels similar to coffee.
- Red Vein Kratom – This is a popular choice among kratom users looking for relaxing effects.
Can I give my dog kratom-infused food?
It’s hard to ignore how effective kratom is. And as of now, there are no tests or reports about kratom’s adverse side effects on dogs. But if you want to add kratom to your dog’s diet, it’s best to consult a vet first.
Conclusion
Your dog can potentially benefit from kratom’s positive effects, but since studies on kratom for dogs remains limited, you should proceed with caution. Start by determining the right dosage for your dogs. You can also reach out to a holistic veterinarian if you’re really keen on the matter.
