The hormone melatonin is produced naturally by both people and animals. As a supplement, it can assist us and our canine friends in unwinding, unwinding, and sleeping. It may also help with certain medical conditions.
Here are some ways melatonin, when administered properly, can make your dog feel healthier and happier. Of course, you should always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new medications or supplements into your pet’s health care regimen.
Dogs who experience anxiety may occasionally receive melatonin, according to Dr The author of several books, including “From Needles to Natural: Learning Holistic Pet Healing,” Judy Morgan, is a holistic veterinarian. ”.
The medication can lessen the signs of separation anxiety brought on by extended workdays or a family vacation. Additionally, it can aid a dog’s relaxation prior to potentially upsetting events like a protracted car ride or a trip to the groomer.
Dr. A veterinarian in Ottawa, Canada named Marie Haynes claims to have observed melatonin helping dogs who experience thunderstorm phobia.
The internal mechanisms that inform our bodies when it is night or day, time to sleep or play, are thought to be regulated by melatonin. Melatonin supplements may be used by people to combat the insomnia brought on by jet lag. According to Morgan, it can also assist older dogs with cognitive impairments to control their biorhythms and get a better night’s sleep.
The most frequent application of melatonin in Morgan’s practice is the management of Cushings disease. According to her, the supplement aids the body in preventing the body from absorbing more cortisone as a result of a benign tumor on the pituitary gland. An adrenal gland tumor can also result in Cushing’s disease. These cases are best treated through surgery, says Dr. Jennifer Coates, a veterinary advisor for petMD.
Although they are typically required when a dog exhibits moderate to severe symptoms, additional medications used to treat pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease can have unpleasant side effects, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even kidney failure. Morgan says, “I like to start with something natural and go from there.” When treating mild cases of Cushing’s disease or “atypical” Cushing’s disease, in which sex hormone production is elevated, melatonin seems to be most beneficial, according to Coates.
Haynes claims that she uses melatonin to treat dogs with seasonal alopecia, also known as flank alopecia. On either side of the abdomen, there are bald patches that identify the condition.
It’s not known what causes the hair loss, she says. It’s also unclear how melatonin treats seasonal alopecia or whether the condition would disappear on its own if the supplement weren’t taken. However, for some pet owners, it is fulfilling to know that they are making an effort to help their dog.
Although there is no scientific evidence that melatonin is effective, Haynes notes that the likelihood of serious side effects is very low. “In most cases, there’s no harm in trying it. ”.
Signs and Symptoms of a Melatonin Overdose
Although melatonin can help your dog with a variety of health and behavioral issues, it is also possible for your pet to receive too much of a good thing. Make sure to determine the proper dosage for your pet with your veterinarian to reduce the chance of an overdose.
Make sure you are aware of the warning signs and are aware of how to react if you are concerned that you may have given your dog too much melatonin or if you believe they may have accessed the medical supplies and taken an extra dose. The symptoms of a mild overdose are not likely to be overly severe. For instance, your pet might exhibit signs of sleepiness in addition to having a mildly upset stomach.
Significant overdoses can cause much more severe side effects that call for immediate attention. Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, high blood pressure, and even seizures are warning signs to watch out for.
If you notice any of these symptoms, dont delay. Contact your vet immediately or call a poison control hotline. You’ll receive guidance on the best course of action and what you can do to take care of your pet.
Keep an eye out for any signs of melatonin overdose in your dog’s body language, such as:
Other signs you may notice include:
Most commonly, melatonin is administered orally as a pill, chewable, or liquid. There are over-the-counter products that come in oral forms for both humans and dogs, and they can be administered with or without food. Studies have shown that there are significant differences in the composition of commercial melatonin products. The melatonin levels in many of the tested products were different from what was stated on the label, and some of them even contained serotonin. To find the ideal product for your dog, consult your veterinarian.
Little evidence exists regarding dogs overdosing on melatonin. Thankfully, melatonin has a wide dosage range, so a slight overdose is not likely to have any lasting effects. Melatonin mild overdoses may result in nausea, diarrhea, and excessive sleepiness.
But melatonin has a few other applications in veterinary medicine besides just aiding in sleep. What to know if your dog’s veterinarian recommends it is provided below.
Melatonin supplements are considered safe for use in most dogs. Melatonin therapy may be suggested by your veterinarian to treat your pet’s skin conditions, behavioral issues, and sleep disorders.
Melatonin affects bodily processes associated with reproduction, behavior, and hair growth (including seasonal shedding) in dogs and many other animals.
What are the signs of a melatonin overdose in dogs?
First, how do you know your dog has eaten melatonin?
A mild overdose is unlikely to cause serious issues. Due to the sedative effects of melatonin, your dog may vomit, experience diarrhea, and become sleepy. Symptoms usually appear within 20 to 30 minutes. Although a significant overdose is unlikely to cause death, it can cause more serious symptoms that necessitate immediate veterinary care. A significant melatonin overdose may cause vomiting, diarrhea, unsteadiness, itchiness, high blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat, and seizures.
FAQ
How much melatonin is too much for a dog?
The following is a general guideline for melatonin dosage (up to 3x daily) for dogs: Dogs under 10 lbs. should receive 1 mg. Dogs weighing 10-25 lbs should be given 1. 5 mg. Dogs weighing 26-100 lbs should be given 3 mg.
Can too much melatonin hurt dogs?
Xylitol, a sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs and can result in serious health issues if given to your dog, is found in many brands of melatonin supplements for humans. Ask your veterinarian for a safe brand recommendation if you’re unsure which one to use for your dog.
What happens if a dog eats a whole bottle of melatonin?
Although a significant overdose is unlikely to cause death, it can cause more serious symptoms that necessitate immediate veterinary care. A significant melatonin overdose may cause vomiting, diarrhea, unsteadiness, itchiness, high blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat, and seizures.
Can I give my dog 20 mg of melatonin?
Information on dosage The amount of melatonin your dog should take will depend on how much they weigh. As a general guideline, it is advised to use 1 mg per 20 pounds. Since melatonin takes about 30 minutes to start working, you can easily prepare in advance if you expect a stressful or noisy day, evening, or event.