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Spirulina and Chlorella for Pet Health and Yours - ENERGYbits

Spirulina and Chlorella for Pet Health and Yours

, by Catharine Arnston, 8 min reading time

 Discover the benefits of spirulina and chlorella for dogs and cats. Our nutrient-rich algae tablets support their overall health, from immune function to digestion.

It is no surprise that here, at ENERGYbits®, we are big fans of algae tablets for human health. But did you know that they can also benefit your furry friends’ health?

Studies have clearly demonstrated the health benefits of having furry companions [1], even though pet ownership can be costly, especially if they have health issues. Nowadays, many commercial pet foods have the same nutritional problems as human diets which we all know are contributing to our rising chronic health problems. This article will explore why superfoods like algae tablets can provide powerful nutritional insurance to keep your dogs and cats healthy and long-lived. 

Why Do Cats and Dogs Need Spirulina and Chlorella Nutrition?

Nowadays, most dogs and cats live on commercial pet foods, which means their diet is less diverse than ours. Many store-bought pet foods are often made with low-quality ingredients. These include fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products, which provide minimal nutritional value. They also tend to be heavily processed, which strips away essential nutrients and makes digestion difficult for an animal’s digestive system. 

Pet food ingredients share the same supply chain problems as many human foods. This means they come from nutrient-depleted soil and are low in certain key nutrients. These include omega-3, magnesium, potassium, and several other micronutrients [2]. As a result, 59% of US dogs and 61% of cats are overweight or obese [3]. Correspondingly, incidences of chronic diseases in dogs and cats like joint problems, cardiovascular issues, and autoimmunity are on the rise. These concerning diet-related health trends are very similar for both humans and animals.

 

There's no doubt that our cats and dogs need extra nutrition to keep them healthy. Algae tablets provide powerful nutrients and prebiotics that combat some detriments of commercial pet foods, just as they do for suboptimal human diets. 

Our raw and clean spirulina and chlorella tablets help our dogs and cats by: 

  • Providing a natural whole-food source of micronutrients and essential fatty acids that are often low in typical pet foods
  • Nourishing the gut flora
  • Supporting metabolic functions through the mitochondria and gut flora
  • Supporting healthy detoxification
  • Supporting liver, kidney, and digestive health

Evidence-Based Benefits of Chlorella and Spirulina for Dogs and Cats

Algae have been shown to benefit the health of our feline and canine companions. While there are fewer studies than in humans, various algae have demonstrated safety profiles and benefits for issues from immune health to digestion.  

Supporting healthy immune responses through modulating the gut flora

One study found that adding a small amount of spirulina to dogs’ diets helped their immune system and gut function [4]. After nine weeks, the dogs fed spirulina had higher levels of a gut-protective antibody, IgA, in their stool and this improvement lasted throughout the duration of the study. The study also found it positively balanced gut bacteria – even after intense exercise – compared to dogs who didn’t receive it. Another important finding was that spirulina-fed dogs had better reactions to the rabies vaccine, showing a quicker and stronger immune response!

Improves digestion

Another study looked at how 12 dogs responded to algae products, in terms of digestion, gut health, and overall diet [5]. Researchers found that chlorella, in particular, helped dogs digest protein better. They also found that adding algae changed the composition of the dogs’ gut bacteria – promoting strains linked to gut health and stronger immune function.

Feeding cats algae also has benefits for immune and digestive health. A lab study found that immune cells from cats could ward off pathogens better when exposed to algae [6]. Because of their rich nutrient profiles, algae can ensure your feline friends obtain the nutrients they need, helping promote digestive health and overall wellness.

 

Healthier skin and shinier coat  

Your pets need certain nutrients to help support the health of their fur or coat. These include vitamins, minerals, omega-3s, and proteins [7]. Algae, as nutrient powerhouses, check off every box – helping keep coats shiny and promoting your pets’ skin health.

 

Dosage of Algae Tablets for Dogs and Cats

The dose of spirulina and chlorella depends on your pet’s size and weight. Other factors can include the breed, age, and whether or not they have any underlying health conditions. It’s important to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it over time as your pet adjusts. We recommend always speaking to your vet first, so they can help you determine the appropriate dose for the best benefits.

Here are some general dosage guidelines based on body weight for dogs (Weight and recommended amount can be used for cats also): 

 

Mixing ground-up algae tablets into their food is the easiest way to introduce pets to the product. Once they become accustomed to the tablets and have no side effects, you can increase the dose based on the guidelines above. Many of our customers also find their dogs love the algae tablets as treats.

 

Side Effects of Chlorella and Spirulina to Watch Out For

Spirulina and chlorella tend to be particularly well-tolerated in pets, unless they come from polluted water or adulterated sources. ENERGYbits® ensure that our algae tablets are raw, minimally processed, and grown in the cleanest environment, eliminating the risk of side effects or health problems from impurities or contaminants. In a study determining the safety profile of algae in 60 dogs and 30 cats, researchers found that no adverse bowel movements, vomiting, or itching occurred during the trial period [8]. That said, since every cat and dog is different, it’s always a good idea to speak to your vet first, and introduce our algae tablets slowly and watch for any reactions.

While rare, things pet owners should look out for are:

  • Changes in bowel movements
  • Other kinds of digestive discomfort
  • Fatigue
  • Symptoms of allergy including itching

Love Your Furry Family Members to Bits with ENERGYbits®

Incorporating spirulina and chlorella into your pet's diet can provide a wide range of health benefits, from boosting immune function to supporting digestion and promoting a healthy coat. While some store-bought pet foods may lack essential nutrients, adding algae supplements can help fill the gap, supporting your pet's overall well-being. Love your furry friends to bits with ENERGYbits®!

 

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