Lactoferrin and Feline Oral Wellbeing

Lactoferrin and Everyday Oral Wellbeing in Cats

Many cat owners look for gentle ways to support their cat's everyday oral comfort and natural defences. Lactoferrin is a natural iron-binding protein that has been studied for its role in supporting a healthy inflammatory response and the body's natural immune defences. In this blog post, we will discuss how lactoferrin may fit into general support for your cat's oral and immune wellbeing.

Supporting your cat's oral comfort

Some cats experience oral discomfort and changes in the mouth that can affect their everyday comfort and appetite. [1] A range of factors can contribute to oral discomfort in cats. If your cat shows signs of oral discomfort, it is always best to consult your veterinarian.

How does lactoferrin work?

Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein found in saliva, tears, and colostrum that has been studied for its role in supporting a healthy inflammatory response and supporting normal immune function. Research describes how lactoferrin may help support a balanced oral environment and the body's natural defences. This describes published research and is not a claim about the effects of our product.

How do I use lactoferrin?

Using lactoferrin as part of your cat's general wellbeing routine is relatively straightforward. You can purchase lactoferrin in powder form. To apply the powder, mix it with a bit of water to form a paste, and then apply it directly to the area of interest. Alternatively, you can dilute the lactoferrin powder with water, and then use a spray bottle to administer it onto your cat's gums and mouth area. It is important to be careful when applying lactoferrin so that you do not get it into the eyes or nose. If you do accidentally get some in the eyes or nose, rinse it off immediately with warm water. When using lactoferrin for your cat, it is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult your veterinarian for advice on the most suitable dosage for your pet.

What are the side effects of lactoferrin?

Lactoferrin is a naturally-occurring protein that is generally well tolerated by cats. However, there are some potential side effects that owners should be aware of when using lactoferrin.

The most common side effects in cats include: itching, redness, swelling or irritation of the skin, gastrointestinal upset (vomiting or diarrhea), and decreased appetite. In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur such as difficulty breathing or anaphylactic shock. If any of these symptoms are observed, discontinue use and seek veterinary help immediately.

In addition to the side effects outlined above, some cats may also experience allergic reactions to lactoferrin. This can manifest in skin rashes, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect your cat is having an allergic reaction to lactoferrin, it is important to stop giving the supplement and contact your veterinarian for advice.

Overall, lactoferrin is generally considered well tolerated by cats when given as directed. To minimize the risk of side effects, it is important to follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully when giving your cat lactoferrin.

What does the research describe?

Lactoferrin has been studied for its role in supporting feline oral and immune wellbeing. In published research, cats given a daily dose of lactoferrin were observed for changes in oral comfort and a balanced oral environment. This describes published research and is not a claim about the effects of our product. For advice specific to your cat, consult your veterinarian.

References & Sources

1. Bovine lactoferrin as an adjunct in feline oral health research

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24973002/

2. Oral administration of bovine lactoferrin in feline wellbeing research

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8896681/