Functional Feed Additives Enhance Tear Staining Managements in Dogs
Tear staining is a common yet underestimated condition that impairs appearance and may indicate underlying health issues in dogs. This study explored the effects of the traditional Chines herbs Chrysanthemum morifolium (CM), cassia semen (CS), and Poria cocos (PC) in dogs prone to tear staining. All three treatments reduced tear staining scores and stain length. Moreover, CS and PC improved iron and porphyrin status, immune function, and antioxidant capacity. Notably, CM and PC increased the abundance of genus Allobaculum which also associated with tear staining indices and porphyrin metabolites. These findings suggest that PC, CS, and PC may serve as promising non-antibiotic dietary strategies for managing tear staining in dogs.