If you are a pet owner, you understand the deep-seated love we share for our irreplaceable fur babies. Their unconditional love is soul-splittingly beautiful, and it’s no wonder we worry about their health as much as we do our own. The thought of our furry friends dealing with medical problems is not a fun prospect to think about, but being proactive about their health is a wise action plan. Just as we take supplements for our mind and body, there are supplements for our pets that can improve their health and wellness and ease our minds.
Naturally occurring supplements, such as methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), are used as a supplement to treat conditions that our pets may face in their lifetime.
What is MSM?
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring sulfur-containing compound well-known for its joint health benefits. MSM is often used in dogs and horses, although it can also be given to cats. It has been shown to improve the strength of bones and joints in animals by preventing, slowing down, or relieving conditions such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and other musculoskeletal problems1. Other reported benefits of MSM include:
- Helps with relief from chronic pain.
- Synergistic effects with Vitamins A, B, D, E, C, Q-10, and all B Vitamins.
- Works as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
- Helps with Neurological diseases.
- Alleviates some allergies.
- Protects against some cancers2.
In some cases, MSM is used for pain relief. It helps reduce chronic pain by limiting pain impulses through nerve fibers. MSM also increases cortisol levels, which has anti-inflammatory effects that reduce pain levels.
Where Does MSM Come From?
In nature, MSM is an organic form of sulfur. Phytoplankton, microscopic organisms that live in our oceans, have a lifecycle and eventually die. During their decomposition phase, Dimethylsulfide (DMS) is formed. When this gas reacts with sunlight, an oxidation process occurs, which produces Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), MSM, and other sulfates. When studies proved the benefits of this particular type of sulfur, scientists could replicate this process in a lab to produce MSM for commercial use.
Most commercial MSM is not made from phytoplankton; however, it is synthesized by the catalytic reaction of hydrogen peroxide and DMSO.
Now that we’ve had our chemistry lesson for the day, we better understand what goes into the supplement that can provide many health benefits for our four-legged friends.
Is MSM Right For My Pet?
Although we wish our pets could live forever, realistically we know we have to take care of them for the precious time we do have. Because our pets age faster than humans, it is essential to provide preventative care in the following areas:
- Regularly Scheduled check-ups
- Immunizations
- Dental Care
- Exercise
- Supplementation
- Weight Management (Proper diet)
Providing the best care through supplementation and other critical preventative measures is the best proactive treatment you can take to ensure the health and longevity of your pet’s life3.
Breeds Susceptible to Joint Health Issues
A common issue, particularly among dogs, is joint health issues. There are specific breeds that are more susceptible to these types of health conditions. These breeds are:
- Labrador retrievers
- Golden retrievers
- German Shepherds
- Dachshunds
- Bernards
- Great Danes
- Mastiffs
You might notice that the dog breeds on this list are large to giant dogs. The one exception is the dachshund, which is vulnerable to spinal and joint issues due to its teeny tiny legs supporting a big, long body4.
What Other Supplements Can I Give My Pet?
Just as we take a daily multivitamin to make up for the nutrients we might not be gaining through our diet, the same goes for our pets. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Vitamins A, C, D, E, K, And B vitamins are crucial for your pet’s diet. Pet multivitamins come in soft chews or liquid form, which you can give your dog or cat as a treat. This will benefit their overall health, coat, and energy as they age5.
Being preventative and proactive about your pet’s health through supplementation is a wonderful way to ensure you will have many long years to come of fur-baby fun.
References:
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/msm#:~:text=Methylsulfonylmethane%20(MSM)%20is%20a%20naturally,cats%20may%20benefit%20as%20well.
- 8 Benefits of Pet Supplementation, https://polipetproducts.com/blogs/learn/8-benefits-of-pet-supplementation?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=17789528577&utm_content=&utm_term=&gadid=.
- MSM: Does Your Pet Need It? https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/msm-raw-fed-dogs/.
- Which Dog Breeds are Most Susceptible to Joint Problems? https://www.veterinaryteachingacademy.com/blog/Dog-Breeds-that-are-Most-Susceptible-to-Joint-Problems.
- 20 Best Dog Multivitamins To Buy This Year, https://www.discovermagazine.com/lifestyle/20-best-dog-multivitamins-to-buy-this-year.
