What is Coenzyme Q10?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10 for short) is a compound made by all animal bodies, including dogs, and stored throughout the body within the mitochondria of every cell. It’s in the mitochondria where the magic happens – there, CoQ10 helps to make energy from carbohydrates (from food) and use oxygen. The energy produced is used to perform many different functions in the body. As we and our canine friends get older, the amount of CoQ10 produced decreases, so we should look at ways to increase intake via the diet or supplements to increase CoQ10 levels in the body.
How is CoQ10 used in the body?
You’ll find CoQ10 in every cell in the body, but particularly in organs that use a lot of energy – think the heart, kidneys, liver, lungs and brain, as well as muscles. That’s why a deficiency in CoQ10 as dogs age may lead to health complications with these vital organs. CoQ10’s main purpose is to help make energy in the cells. The other key role of CoQ10 is that it works as a powerful antioxidant, protecting millions of cells from free radicals causing oxidative damage.
Benefits of CoQ10 for dogs
As CoQ10 for dogs is used to support many aspects of your pet’s health, making sure your best friend has adequate CoQ10 levels, particularly as they age, can have a lot of great benefits.
CoQ10 for brain health in dogs
As our best friends reach their senior years, adequate CoQ10 can be a great support to help maintain an alert and sharp mind. CoQ10 helps enhance the signals within the brain and also has a protective action by reducing the free radicals that can damage this vital organ. Supplements for senior dogs containing CoQ10 can be beneficial.
CoQ10 for oral health
Many dogs have a reputation for eating almost anything and this means that all sorts of things may pass through a dog’s mouth, in addition to the daily wear and tear on teeth and gums from normal eating. Dogs’ mouths are prone to tooth and gum disease, so CoQ10 can help support mouth health and speed the healing of oral injuries, as mouth tissue turns over at a higher rate than other parts of the body.
CoQ10 for gastrointestinal health in dogs
Dogs love to eat, so their gastrointestinal tract (GI tract) is a busy place. The GI tract uses lots of energy digesting all the food that keeps your pet healthy, but also for cell maintenance and growth. CoQ10 is a metabolic enhancer meaning it helps convert food into energy for the body efficiently. CoQ10 also helps provide protection to the GI tract wall via its antioxidant actions.
CoQ10 for immune system support
Having adequate levels of CoQ10 has been shown to help support a healthy immune system in our best friends.
CoQ10 for dogs for heart health
Our heart is a muscle that works hard, day in and out, requiring constant energy. CoQ10 helps to support a healthy circulation, heart health and may support those pets with early stage congestive heart failure. The dietary addition of CoQ10 in cases of canine heart disease can be important in slowing disease progression and improving overall heart health
Best CoQ10 supplements for dogs
The best CoQ10 supplement for dogs is a CoQ10 supplement specifically for dogs, rather than humans – this is the safest and most convenient way to give your dog this supplement in their diet. High-quality CoQ10 supplements for dogs have been specially formulated with the correct dosage of CoQ10 for dogs – this is very important, as although toxicity is unlikely, it is important to provide an efficacious and safe dose.
ZamiPet premium supplements containing CoQ10
ZamiPet Complete Care Multi contains a comprehensive blend of vitamins and minerals plus Omega-3, Manuka Honey, Turmeric, CoQ10 and Prebiotic to maintain general health and vitality in dogs.
ZamiPet Senior Support contains Omega-3, Turmeric, CoQ10 and L-Carnitine, which may help alleviate symptoms associated with age-related decline in dogs.
Does CoQ10 interact with other medications?
Before starting your dog on a supplement containing CoQ10, it’s best to speak to your vet. If your dog is on any blood thinning or blood pressure medication, caution should be taken when using CoQ10. Also let your vet know any other vitamins or supplements that your pet may be taking or any allergies they may have.
The information in this article was checked by ZamiPet Veterinarian and General Manager Dr Andrew McKay, BVSc, University of Melbourne, 2000. Vet Registration No: V3985
Disclaimer: This information is general advice only. Before starting any treatment or supplement with your pet, please consult your vet first for the best approach to getting your pet back to their best health.
You're $100 away from free shipping!