Pros And Cons Of Melatonin For Dogs: Uses, Dosage, And Effects
What are the pros and cons of melatonin for dogs?
With many potential advantages, melatonin seems to be a safe supplement. There is enough data to imply that it might be beneficial for conditions like anxiety, depression, cancer, heart health, digestion, and adjuvant therapy in cancer treatment, though more research is required to confirm all of its benefits. Before giving your dog melatonin, make sure to consult your veterinarian, especially if he or she is already treating your dog for another condition.
Please continue reading for more thorough information on the benefits and drawbacks of melatonin for dogs.
Table of Contents
Pros Of Melatonin For Dogs
Dogs can use melatonin for a variety of things. The most typical ones are used to handle issues like:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Cognitive disorders
- Depression
- Digestive issues
Anxiety
Your anxious or fearful dog may become calmer after taking melatonin.
Serotonin was previously discussed. Serotonin itself is the “feel-good hormone” that can brighten your dog’s mood. But on top of that … serotonin helps the body create melatonin, which has proven calming effects.
Some dogs with phobias of thunderstorms or fireworks may benefit from melatonin. A dog with separation anxiety may also benefit from it.
Melatonin For Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)
For CCD, a disorder that affects older dogs frequently, I frequently prescribe melatonin.
Your senior dog may exhibit signs of disturbed sleep, panting, and pacing at night. Also, he might have a propensity for becoming confused or disoriented or exhibiting other odd behaviors. Even worse, he might poop inside.
Melatonin may benefit CCD patients. Your senior can get a better night’s sleep thanks to its capacity to moderate the sleep-wake cycle. CCD dogs can experience anxiety as well, and as I’ve mentioned, melatonin can have a calming effect.
Furthermore, melatonin depletion might also play a role in your dog’s CCD because the hormone’s production can decline with age.
Gut Health
The digestive tract produces large amounts of melatonin, which promotes the health of the microbiome.
Melatonin appeared to support the diversity of healthy gut bacteria, according to a 2018 mouse study (2). In the same study, the antioxidant effects of melatonin increased the mice’s resistance to oxidative stress.
Along with promoting regular bowel movements, melatonin can help manage constipation and diarrhea. There is a chance that melatonin has antifungal qualities as well. It’s been shown to help control candida (yeast). It can also help repair leaky gut syndrome. This implies that it can be helpful in treating chronic skin conditions and other issues.
Immunity
When it comes to boosting the immune system, melatonin has significant advantages.
Melatonin’s effects on various infections (bacterial, viral, and parasitic) were investigated in a 2013 Spanish study. The research examined autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, as well as how they affected the immune system’s immunomodulatory processes.
Melatonin receptors were found by the researchers in a wide range of immune cells and organs in numerous mammal and bird species. They came to the conclusion that melatonin’s ability to modulate the immune system is undeniable, and they said as much in their conclusion.”
Additionally, some studies indicate that melatonin may be able to control cancer, particularly breast and prostate cancers.
Insomnia
Both you and your dog may experience problems from canine insomnia.
Your dog might be restless at night if he’s having trouble sleeping. He might be moving around, complaining, or panting. Of course, this can also impact how well you sleep!
Even if your awake dog doesn’t annoy you, you might notice he seems extra sleepy or lethargic during the day. He might even appear a little disoriented (just like we do when we lack sleep).
Melatonin can improve your dog’s nighttime sleep because it helps control the sleep-wake cycle.
Hair Loss
Alopecia (hair loss) occurs in some canines. The hair loss mostly affects the flanks and back and is frequently seasonal.
The fact that alopecia is more prevalent in the spring suggests that the lack of sunlight during the winter may be to blame. In fact, melatonin will be recommended for this condition even by traditional veterinarians. (To stimulate the animals’ thick coats in the winter, mink farmers also administer melatonin!)
Melatonin For Vital Organs
Numerous vital body organs are protected by melatonin.
Liver
When exposed to too many toxins, the liver may suffer damage. The liver is shielded by the antioxidant effects of melatonin. It can lessen inflammation, stop cell death, and promote mitochondrial health. By engaging in this activity, toxins may not accumulate.
Kidneys
Similar to the liver, the kidneys can become overburdened by an excessive amount of toxins, such as heavy metals, chemicals, and pesticides. The antioxidant qualities of melatonin may aid in kidney damage prevention.
Brain
The blood-brain barrier is permeable to melatonin. It can shield the brain thanks to its neuroprotective properties.
By stabilizing the blood-brain barrier … melatonin may limit brain damage from stressors like traumatic brain injury or stroke. Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease may be helped by it.
EMF-EMR exposure harm may also be avoided with the aid of this. Additionally, melatonin is depleted by EMF-EMR.
Lungs
As an effective immune modulator and antioxidant, melatonin was mentioned. Due to these functions, it may also aid in preventing the spread of viruses and other pathogens to the lungs.
Inflammatory cell recruitment, pro-inflammatory cytokine release, and lung protection from oxidative injury have all been linked to melatonin.
(Melatonin may not be applicable to dogs, but researchers believe it may be a helpful adjunct therapy for COVID-19).
Thyroid
Melatonin may help shield the thyroid gland from dysfunction, according to animal studies. Its function as an immunomodulator may also play a role. The most widespread form of autoimmune disease is autoimmune thyroid disease, which is frequently brought on by overvaccinating dogs.
Heart
Oxidative stress can harm the heart, but melatonin may help to prevent that.
It might lower blood pressure. It can stop the heart from getting bigger and developing heart failure. It may also prevent the heart tissue from becoming scarred (fibrosis).
Anti-Aging
Melatonin is an effective anti-aging and anti-stress agent thanks to its strong antioxidant properties and capacity to suppress cortisol.
Bone Strength
In a study, rats given melatonin had thicker bones and a higher volume of bone. They also had more of the collagen “scaffold” that the bones are built on, called trabeculae. Melatonin users’ bones were more resilient and less likely to fracture.
Detoxification
Melatonin aids in the chelation of heavy metals. For people with electromagnetic sensitivity, it is also suggested as a supplement. For the two major environmental toxins—glyphosate and EMF-EMR—I see many cases where it is necessary.
These uses are dose-dependent … so always consult an expert before initiating therapy.
Cons Of Melatonin For Dogs
The drawbacks of melatonin for dogs include its rare side effects and potential for making some dogs lethargic. Additionally, not all dog breeds are appropriate for it. Older dogs need to be carefully watched during the first few days of treatment even though they might benefit from it. You should always discuss potential side effects and a suitable dosage for your pet with your veterinarian before administering any medication, as is recommended for humans as well.
Pregnant Or Lactating Female Dogs
If melatonin is given to a dog with immune-mediated illnesses like inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, protein-losing enteropathy, hematological malignancies, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and thrombocytopenia, the immune system could suffer. There are also a few uncommon drawbacks to melatonin for dogs, including adverse effects on the fertility rate.
Cancer
The immune system may be negatively impacted by melatonin, as was previously mentioned. A dog’s ability to fight off any cancer that may already be present or that may develop as a result of the treatment regimens for their other illnesses may also be harmed by taking melatonin because dogs are extremely sensitive to chemotherapy agents.
Diabetes
It is crucial to inform your vet about your dog’s melatonin supplement before starting either medication if your vet has prescribed an anticoagulant.
Since there are natural alternatives to anticoagulant medications that shouldn’t cause this kind of interaction, it would also be advisable to discuss this matter with an integrative veterinarian as soon as possible. According to Veterinary Partner, melatonin is extremely dangerous for diabetic dogs.
Overdosing On Melatonin
Dogs who have received an excessive amount of melatonin may vomit or exhibit signs of fatigue and depression. Contact Pet Poison Helpline if your dog displays any of these signs after receiving the supplement.
Increased Risk Of Seizures
This supplement has the potential to change brain chemistry, especially when taken in conjunction with other drugs for anxiety or seizure disorders, which increases the likelihood of seizures in dogs. Of course, this is not always the case, but at least two instances of dogs having seizures after taking melatonin supplements have been documented.
How To Give Your Dog Melatonin?
- Melatonin Treats!: For Nickel, we use Naturvet Quiet Moments Calming Aid Plus Melatonin, and it works perfectly. We don’t have to worry about slipping a pill inside food, and she is happy to enjoy a treat. Since they would be more expensive and possibly unhealthy constantly as treats, it is probably best to use these as supplements when they are needed.
- Melatonin Tablets: For a dog who takes melatonin regularly, these may be the best options because you can mix a tablet into their food rather than overfeeding them with treats.
- Chewables and Melatonin Drops: If your dog has a particular preference for flavor and doesn’t enjoy taking pills or tablets, these may be a more appealing option.
- Melatonin Pills: For more frequent doses, pills would be a great option. To make them easier for your dog to take, you could mix them with wet dog food.
In conclusion, if your dog struggles with sleep, mood, or fear, I would definitely suggest researching melatonin for them. As much as we dislike seeing Nickel so terrified, giving Nickel these as needed has been very reassuring to both of us. Find out the recommended dosage for your dog by speaking with your veterinarian. Consider reading this article for other calming supplements for your beloved dog if melatonin is not an option for some reason.
Dogs Melatonin Dosage
Similar to humans, dogs can take melatonin in a variety of dosages. The dosage is dependent on the condition being treated. It is generally advised to administer 1 to 6 milligrams orally every eight to twenty-four hours. When used for sleep as opposed to for behavioral issues and skin conditions, doses are typically lower and less frequent. The dosage best suited for your dog will be decided by your veterinarian.
A pill, chewable, or liquid form of melatonin is typically administered orally. Both canines and people can take oral medications in over-the-counter products, which can be taken with or without food. Studies have shown that the composition of commercial melatonin products varies greatly. Some of the tested products even contained serotonin, and many of them had melatonin levels that were different from what was stated on the label. Your veterinarian can assist you in locating the ideal product for your dog.
A melatonin implant known as Dermatonin may also be accessible in some regions. The continuous melatonin treatment from this implant lasts for up to six months after being injected under the skin. Depending on your dog’s needs, your veterinarian can advise you on the best course of action.
Melatonin works quickly, beginning to have an impact within an hour or two.
If a dose is missed, as long as it is not too close to the next dose scheduled, you may administer the missed dose. Skip the missed dose and administer the next melatonin dose as scheduled if it is almost time for your dog’s next dose. Don’t take two doses at once.
Melatonin For Dogs Side Effects
Melatonin is thought to be generally safe for dogs, with side effects being extremely rare. Sleepiness is the main adverse effect. In dogs who haven’t been neutered or spayed, melatonin can also affect changes in ovulation. Other possible side effects include GI distress, elevated heart rate, itching, and confusion.
What Is Melatonin?
The hormone melatonin is produced naturally by a wide variety of animals, including humans, dogs, and cats. It aids in regulating the body’s daily cycle, or circadian rhythm, and is primarily produced by the pineal gland in the brain. Because darkness stimulates the production of melatonin, levels are significantly higher at night than they are during the day. Because of the shorter days in the fall and winter, levels are even higher.
Melatonin affects how dogs and many other animals behave, as well as how much hair they grow and shed throughout the year.
Melatonin Safety
The safety record of melatonin is excellent. Few reports of negative events have been made, particularly at low doses of between 0.5 and 5 milligrams (mg). If taken in normal doses, time-release melatonin is extremely safe.
Melatonin Cautions
Safety of long-term use isn’t clear, so give melatonin for short-term use only.
Don’t give melatonin with these drugs:
- Anticoagulants and anti-platelet drugs
- Anticonvulsants
- Diabetes medications
- Immunosuppressants (steroids)
Animals that are expecting or nursing should not take melatonin.
I haven’t even touched on all the things melatonin can do for the body. Melatonin, however, is without a doubt our body’s most versatile biochemical.
Melatonin Supplements Are Safe To Give To Dogs
Most dogs can safely take melatonin supplements. For the treatment of skin conditions, behavioral issues, and sleep disorders in your pet, veterinarians may suggest melatonin therapy.
Melatonin has been shown to help dogs with alopecia (hair loss) caused by non-allergic skin conditions like generalized alopecia, atopic dermatitis, alopecia X, seasonal flank alopecia, and mange grow their hair back.
Melatonin has a calming effect, so it’s been used to treat dogs with phobias, separation anxiety, and generalized anxiety.
Melatonin can improve sleep in dogs just like it can in people. Dogs may have trouble sleeping as a result of sleep disorders like narcolepsy or as a sign of a medical condition. As well as interfering with a dog’s sleep-wake cycle, dementia can.
Melatonin can promote calmness and lower the amount of anesthesia drugs required when administered prior to anesthesia, according to research. Veterinarians are still researching melatonin’s effects on animals and any potential advantages it may have. If you believe melatonin could help your dog, speak with your veterinarian.
Is Melatonin Addiction Possible In Dogs?
Dogs taking too much melatonin has little scientific support. Fortunately, there is a wide dosage range for melatonin, so a slight overdose is not likely to have a significant impact. Melatonin overdoses that are not severe can result in excessive sleepiness, diarrhea, and vomiting.
A serious melatonin overdose may be more dangerous. Coordination issues, itching, high blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat, and seizures are just a few of the possible side effects. If your dog consumes a sizable amount of melatonin—say, a full bottle—you should call a vet right away. You can call your local vet, a pet emergency center, or a pet poison control service like ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. In the event that the overdose occurred recently, you might be instructed to induce vomiting. Probably at a veterinary clinic, your dog will need additional care.
Conclusion
The post talked about pros and cons of melatonin for dogs.
Patients who suffer from insomnia and anxiety frequently use melatonin. However, when using it for dogs, a lot of issues arise. Dogs can experience insomnia or depression because they are sentient beings with feelings. They can’t discuss their issues with you, which is the only drawback. Numerous studies have so far shown both positive and negative effects of melatonin supplementation for dogs. Before choosing a supplement for your dog, consider the advantages and disadvantages of melatonin for dogs.
For people with Alzheimer’s disease, chronic pain, and some other health conditions linked to insomnia, many veterinarians advise using melatonin to improve sleep.
Regarding your reading, I thank you. Check out our most recent posts for more information on the benefits and drawbacks of melatonin for dogs. Have a nice day!
