Primary Function: Cardiovascular Support
HOW IT SUPPORTS PET HEALTH
Hawthorn (*Crataegus laevigata*), a small tree or shrub in the rose family, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its cardiovascular benefits. In pets, hawthorn is recognized as a natural cardiotonic that strengthens heart function, improves circulation, and regulates blood pressure. It is particularly beneficial for dogs and cats with heart conditions such as congestive heart failure (CHF), arrhythmias, or hypertension.
The active compounds in hawthorn—flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins—provide antioxidant protection to heart tissues, dilate blood vessels, and enhance oxygen utilization. Additionally, hawthorn can help ease anxiety in pets by modulating stress responses. Its gentle yet effective properties make it a valuable addition to the care of senior pets or those with cardiovascular concerns.
FUNCTIONAL OVERVIEW
Hawthorn works by improving coronary blood flow and strengthening the heart muscle. Its flavonoid content enhances the integrity of blood vessel walls, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress that can damage cardiovascular tissues. By dilating blood vessels, hawthorn improves circulation and helps regulate blood pressure.
In addition to its cardiovascular benefits, hawthorn has mild anxiolytic properties that may help pets with stress-related behaviors. It also supports digestion by promoting healthy enzyme activity and gut motility. These combined effects contribute to overall vitality in both dogs and cats.
COMMON VETERINARY USES
Species Studied
- Dogs
- Cats
Primary Benefits for Pets
- Cardiovascular Health: Strengthens heart muscle function and improves circulation.
- Blood Pressure Regulation: Helps maintain normal blood pressure levels.
- Anxiety Reduction: Provides calming effects for pets with stress-related behaviors.
- Antioxidant Protection: Reduces oxidative damage to cardiovascular tissues.
Veterinary Use Cases
- Treating congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs and cats by improving cardiac output.
- Managing hypertension or arrhythmias in pets with cardiovascular conditions.
- Providing antioxidant support for senior pets prone to oxidative stress-related heart issues.
- Easing anxiety in pets with stress-induced behaviors or age-related cognitive decline.
Contraindications & Sensitivities
Hawthorn is generally safe when administered at appropriate doses. However, high doses may cause hypotension (low blood pressure) or sedation. It should not be used in pets taking medications that lower blood pressure or have existing hypotension without veterinary supervision. Always consult a veterinarian before introducing hawthorn supplements to ensure proper dosing and safety for your pet’s specific needs.
INGREDIENT SOURCING & QUALITY STANDARDS
Hawthorn extracts are derived from the leaves, flowers, and berries of the *Crataegus* plant. The form used in ThorneVet products is standardized to ensure consistent levels of active flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins. Rigorous quality control standards are applied to guarantee purity, potency, and safety for your pet’s health needs.
RESEARCH AT A GLANCE
A growing body of research highlights the benefits of hawthorn supplementation for pets:
- Cardiovascular Support: Studies confirm that hawthorn improves coronary blood flow and strengthens heart muscle function in animals with heart failure. URL: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/hawthorn
- Anxiolytic Effects: Research suggests that hawthorn’s flavonoids provide mild calming effects in animals experiencing stress or anxiety. URL: https://ajtcvm.org/downloads/phytopharmacological-properties-and-clinical-applications-of-crataegus-oxyacantha-crataegus-laevigata/
- Antioxidant Protection: Hawthorn’s antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress in cardiovascular tissues, improving overall heart health in dogs and cats. URL: https://www.dogster.com/ask-the-vet/hawthorn-for-dogs
TRADITIONAL APPLICATIONS
Hawthorn has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as “Shan Zha” to invigorate blood flow and treat digestive stagnation. In Western herbal medicine, it has long been valued as a cardiotonic herb for managing heart conditions and improving circulation. These traditional uses align closely with modern veterinary applications for cardiovascular support in dogs and cats.
DISCLAIMER
This ingredient overview is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new supplements or making changes to your pet’s healthcare regimen.
