The efficacy of a nutritional supplement containing green-lipped mussel, curcumin and blackcurrant leaf extract in dogs and cats with osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis is a common disease in dogs and cats, and the search for novel treatment options is needed. The combination of green-lipped mussel, curcumin and blackcurrant leaf extract has to date not been studied in dogs and cats.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to test the effect of a supplement containing green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus), curcumin (Curcuma longa) and blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) leaf extract on locomotion and behaviour in client-owned dogs and cats suffering from mild to moderate osteoarthritis.

METHODS: To this end, 32 dogs and 16 cats were enrolled in a double-blinded, randomised, crossover, placebo-controlled trial for 10 weeks in cats and 16 weeks in dogs. Outcome parameters were the Helsinki Chronic Pain Index (HCPI) by pet owners in dogs and cats, Canine OsteoArthritis Staging Tool (COAST) by a veterinarian in dogs and Force Plate Analysis (FPA) in 18 dogs.

RESULTS: In dogs, the COAST improved significantly in the supplement group compared to baseline but was not different than the placebo group. In cats, the ability to groom, activity level, playfulness and walking up the stairs improved in the supplement group. No differences were found on HCPI scores and FPA in dogs. Several non-responders were noted in both species, which were irrespective of the stage of osteoarthritis.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the supplement had only partial positive effects in client-owned dogs and cats with mild to moderate osteoarthritis. Further research with a larger sample size and longer duration is needed to expand these findings.