Cat & Dog - Green-Lipped Mussel

What is green-lipped mussel?

Green-lipped or Perna mussel (Perna canaliculus), is a shellfish that is a natural source of glycosaminoglycans (GAGS) including chondroitin. These products are potentially very useful in the treatment of arthritis in dogs and cats.

It also contains a number of other nutrients, including essential fatty acids, carotenoids, and other compounds possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The anti-inflammatory effects of the extract are significant and are achieved at doses far below those typically used for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, eg meloxicam, carprofen) and routine omega-3 fatty acid supplements.

Why recommend administration of perna to my pet?

Perna is an effective supplement for pets with arthritis that has been used by vets interested in alternative medicine for several years. The product is safe for use in both dogs and cats. Most clinical experience has been obtained in the treatment of dogs, given their pronounced predisposition to musculoskeletal disorders.

How much research has been conducted on this supplement?

Perna and its extracts are one of the few alternative treatments that has been repeatedly confirmed effective in multiple well-controlled clinical trials. Most trials used extract of Perna. Interest in clinical trials has been fuelled by the fact that these extracts have been shown to produce 'very significant' improvements in asthma, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory disorders. Dogs fed Perna likewise experienced improvement in arthritic signs in a 2002 study in the Journal of Nutrition. The improvements seen are estimated to be several hundred times greater than those achieved with regular omega-3 fatty acid supplements.

How can my pet benefit from perna?

Owners should expect to see improved mobility and decreased pain in arthritic pets. Asthmatic pets may cough less and breathe easier.

How safe is perna?

One of the perks of Perna is the very low incidence of side effects associated with its use. This stands in contrast to the adverse effects of NSAIDs, with which its benefits are comparable. Adverse effects of NSAIDs include vomiting, gastric ulceration, liver toxicity, and haemorrhage (bleeding). Shellfish poisoning has been raised as a possible concern associated with the use of Perna. Ideally, products should be screened during manufacture for any shellfish toxins.

Where do I obtain perna and do I need a prescription?

Perna is available in a selection of products that we are able to supply. Please talk to one of the vets for further details of these and other supplements to help with arthritis. A prescription is not required.