Silica

What is silica?

Silica is a collective term for various sediments and minerals that have a high silicon content. Silicon is an important building block for connective tissue, bones and cartilage in the body. It is also involved in the formation of collagen, a protein that is responsible for the elasticity and firmness of the skin.

Silica can be obtained from various sources, for example from diatoms, quartz sand or slate. The composition and quality of silica can vary depending on its origin. You should therefore make sure it is pure and has a high silicon content when buying it.

How does silica work for dogs?

Silica is often recommended as a dietary supplement for dogs to make their coat shiny and their claws strong. Silica is also said to strengthen the immune system, aid digestion and reduce inflammation. Some pet owners also report an improvement in joint health and relief from osteoarthritis symptoms in their dogs.

However, there are no scientific studies to prove these effects of silica in dogs. Most experiences are based on personal observations or recommendations from other dog owners. Therefore, you should not have too high expectations of silica and always stick to the recommended dosage.

How can you give silica to your dog?

Silica is available in various forms, for example as a powder, tablets or capsules. You can either give silica directly into your dog's mouth or mix it into their food. The dosage depends on the size and weight of your dog. As a rule of thumb: 1 gram of silica per 5 kilograms of body weight per day.

You can administer silica either permanently or as a cure. A course of treatment should be administered approximately every three to four months and last four to six weeks. Siliceous earth does not take effect immediately, but only after some time of regular use.

What are the risks and side effects of silica?

Silica is considered non-toxic and well tolerated by dogs. However, an overdose can lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea or constipation. In addition, too high an intake of silicon can promote the formation of kidney stones. You should therefore always adhere to the recommended dosage and provide your dog with sufficient water.

Another risk factor is the quality of the silica. Some products may contain impurities such as quartz or cristobalite, which can cause lung damage if inhaled. You should therefore always make sure that the silica has a high purity and low quartz content and be careful when opening the packaging.