title: Use of nutraceuticals and chondroprotectants in osteoarthritic dogs and cats.
abstract: Chondroprotectants and nutraceuticals have become attractive adjunctive or alternative treatments for cats and dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritic patients can be managed satisfactorily in most situations with optimization of body condition, exercise modification, anti-inflammatory therapy, and the use of chondroprotectants agents. Presently, recommendations cannot be made as to which chondroprotectant is best for each dog and cat afflicted with osteoarthritis. Head-to-head comparisons of these products have not been made, and it is not known when the different mediators of osteoarthritis play an important role. Currently, the best recommendation is to use products that have well-designed experimental and clinical research evaluating efficacy and safety, and products that are manufactured under the high quality standards practiced by the pharmaceutical industry.
authors.affiliation: Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, 1111 West Loop South, Suite 160, Houston, TX 77027, USA. drbeale@gcvs.com
authors.forename: Brian S
authors.initials: BS
authors.lastname: Beale
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000975:Antioxidants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D002415:Cats; D003257:Consumer Product Safety; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D004285:Dogs; D058870:Food, Organic; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D000975:Antioxidants