What are the Benefits of Colostrum for Dogs and Cats

Anti Aging There are 87 anti-aging growth factors in Colostrum that help protect the body against he oxidative stress and degeneration that go along with aging. This is a primary reason why I believe all dogs and cats regardless of age should have their diets supplemented with Colostrum. Of course, pets suffering due to a debilitating condition and our seniors should be the primary recipients of the wonderful healing powers of Colostrum The components in Colostrum of primary importance in the role of anti-aging benefits include insulin-like growth factors (IGF-l and ll). These help activate cell reproduction, regeneration and repair; improve nutrient uptake, increase bone mass, restore skin elasticity, increase lean muscle and more. In addition, growth hormone, whose production diminishes as our dogs and cats age, helps to regenerate organs and tissue. All of the components described above, and many more not listed, are essential to maintaining a vibrant, youthful animal for as long as possible.

 Impaired Immune Function The thymus gland is sometimes referred to as the center of youth and immunity. It produces white blood cells called T-Lymphocytes, or T-cells. Unfortunately, this gland begins to atrophy and shrink over the course of a lifetime, perhaps explaining why many health problems seem to correlate with aging. Immune and growth factors contained in colostrum help to restore the thymus gland, actually returning it to youthful function and proportions. The substances in Colostrum responsible for this action are:

Immunoglobulins – Antibodies that neutralize pathogens in the lymphatic and circulatory systems (2). Lactoferrin – A glycoprotein with antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, catalytic, anti-cancer, anti-allergic and radioprotecting functions and properties (3). Proline-Rich Polypeptides (PRP) – Act to establish homeostasis (balance) in the thymus gland (master immune gland) by regulating it when over-active or improving immune response when needed by increasing production of T-cells, lymphocytes and other immune cells. Thymosin – Stimulates activation, development and maintenance of the immune system.

Autoimmune Disease Colostrum contains a constituent called Proline-Rich Polypeptide (PRP), also known as thymulin. It is essential for optimal functioning of the thymus and helps to establish homeostasis, regulating the gland and immune system up or down as needed. In addition, the thymus gland contributes to the regulation of tolerance and the prevention of autoimmunity at many levels. Put into simple terms it works to prevent the formation of, or remove from circulation, self-reactive T-cells that are responsible for autoimmune reactions.

Inflammation Colostrum contains proline-rich polypepetides that can help regulate the immune system and reduce the over-production of inflammatory substances in the blood stream. Colostrum is also a rich source of MSM, which is a sulfur compound, and a well-established analgesic and anti-inflammatory. Lastly, Colostrum’s rich supply of IGF-1 growth factor helps to support the growth of new tissue as well as repair that which has been damaged. In instances were glucosamine hasn’t worked or its effectiveness has declined, the addition of Colostrum can make a huge difference. From our research it appears that IGF growth factor is important for the utilization of glucosamine - older and debilitated animals secrete less of this important substance. Which makes sense as to why we see Colostrum benefiting dogs and cats greatly as they age.

Intestinal Permeability (Leaky Gut Syndrome) Damage to the protective gastrointestinal mucosa can be caused by medications like antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. The over-use of antibiotics can eliminate colonies of beneficial flora that inhabit the lining of the GI tract allowing this lining to be damaged and become permeable. When this happens larger than normal particles can now pass through the digestive tract causing immune reactions like allergies and autoimmune conditions. NSAID's on the other hand can interfere with important hormones that protect the lining of the stomach resulting in gastric ulceration. Colostrum can help repair the digestive tract in both instances. For instance, research has demonstrated that when NSAIDs are provided along with colostrum the usual gastrointestinal damage is avoided. This benefit is usually attributed to the growth factors found in colostrum that promote the reproduction, regeneration and repair of the cells lining an animal’s digestive tract.

Oral Health Many Holistic practitioners are now recommending Colostrum instead of, or in addition to, other measures typical of the veterinary industry for a dog or cat's oral health. This is due to colostrum’s  antimicrobial immunoglobulins, anti-inflammatory proline-rich polypeptides and IGF-1 growth factors that can help control gum disease and repair damaged tissue at the same time. Colostrum taken internally and also formed into a paste and applied to the gum line, can work wonders for dogs and cats with periodontal disease.

External Application Colostrum can be applied externally with great success for your pets. It performs very well when applied topically as a paste to many skin problems like abscesses, hot spots, wounds, or surgical incisions. This is again due to the components found in colostrum, such as lactoferrin, that are antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory as well as the growth factors, such as epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor and insulin-like growth factor  (IGF-1) that help maintain healthy skin by replacing damaged tissue and accelerating wound healing.