Beta‑Glucans in Dogs & Cats: Mechanisms & Outcomes

Beta‑Glucans in Dogs & Cats: Mechanisms & Outcomes

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Beta‑Glucans in Dogs & Cats: Mechanisms & Outcomes

Evidence Summary

Abstract. Beta‑glucans are the most well‑studied polysaccharides in medicinal mushrooms. In both dogs and cats, these complex fibers act as biological response modifiers—bridging innate and adaptive immunity, enhancing mucosal defenses, and supporting microbiome and metabolic balance. Veterinary research continues to expand, confirming functional parallels with human clinical outcomes while refining species‑specific insights.

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Mechanistic overview

Immune modulation

β‑1,3/1,6‑linked glucans bind to pattern recognition receptors (Dectin‑1, CR3, TLR‑2/6) on macrophages, dendritic, and natural killer cells—triggering balanced activation without overstimulation. This primes immune readiness for pathogens, vaccines, and recovery.

Gut‑immune axis

As fermentable fibers, β‑glucans increase short‑chain fatty acids (SCFAs), strengthen tight junctions, and foster Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus growth—key to resilient gut and skin health in companion animals.

Anti‑inflammatory & antioxidant support

Activation of Nrf2 and downregulation of NF‑κB pathways reduce oxidative and inflammatory cascades associated with aging, allergies, and joint stress.

Metabolic & stress resilience

Emerging studies suggest β‑glucans influence glucose, lipid, and cortisol metabolism—aligning with adaptogenic and recovery‑support roles seen in humans.

Evidence in dogs

  • Controlled feeding trials of Ganoderma lucidum and purified β‑glucans increased phagocytic index and vaccine IgG titers (Koh et al., 2024).
  • In dogs with mild osteoarthritis, β‑glucan supplementation improved activity scores and oxidative enzyme balance (Amaral et al., 2024).
  • β‑glucan‑enriched diets supported postoperative recovery and reduced antibiotic duration in clinical kennel studies (Andrade et al., 2023).

Evidence in cats

  • Rabies vaccination study: dietary β‑1,3/1,6‑glucans enhanced immune markers and antibody titers (Byrne et al., 2020).
  • Yeast‑derived β‑glucans increased serum IgG and fecal SCFA concentrations, indicating improved gut‑immune cross‑talk (Sun et al., 2025).
  • Adjunctive β‑glucans with itraconazole yielded faster healing in feline sporotrichosis (Chacon et al., 2025).
  • In vitro assays show mushroom extracts inhibit FIV reverse transcriptase and FIPV protease—potential translational benefit (Seetaha et al., 2020; Hlaoperm et al., 2025).

Clinical context & formulation relevance

In commercial veterinary formulations, β‑glucans are integrated from mushroom fruiting‑body extracts or yeast walls. Optimal content typically ranges between 100–300 mg per daily canine dose (10–30 mg/kg) or 1–2% dietary inclusion in feline foods. Combined with triterpenes and phenolics, they serve as broad‑spectrum immunonutrients supporting resilience and healthy aging.

Safety

β‑glucans are well tolerated in dogs and cats. Mild digestive adaptation (softer stool) can occur when introducing fiber‑rich extracts; gradual titration is recommended. Avoid concurrent initiation with immunosuppressants unless under veterinary direction.

References (MLA)

  1. Amaral, A. R., et al. “Translating Human and Animal Model Studies to Dogs’ and Cats’ Veterinary Care: Beta‑Glucans Application for Skin Disease, Osteoarthritis, and IBD Management.” Veterinary Sciences, 2024.
  2. Andrade, R. B., et al. “Dietary β‑Glucans Accelerate Postoperative Recovery in Kennel Dogs.” Animals, 2023.
  3. Byrne, J., et al. “The Influence of β‑1,3‑1,6‑Glucans on Rabies Vaccination in Cats.” Animals, 2020.
  4. Chacon, A. F. P., et al. “Prospective Study of Itraconazole and β‑Glucans (Euglena gracilis) in Cats with Sporotrichosis.” Veterinary Sciences, 2025.
  5. Hlaoperm, C., et al. “Dual Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Effects of Phallus indusiatus in a Feline Infectious Peritonitis Model.” Veterinary Sciences, 2025.
  6. Koh, R., et al. “Dietary Ganoderma lucidum in Healthy Dogs Improves Phagocytosis and Vaccine‑Specific IgG Titers.” Journal of Veterinary Medical Science, 2024.
  7. Seetaha, S., et al. “Anti‑Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Reverse Transcriptase Activity of Medicinal and Edible Mushrooms.” Veterinary World, 2020.
  8. Sun, J., et al. “Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Yeast Hydrolysate on Immune Function and Gut Health in Cats.” Veterinary Sciences, 2025.

Educational content only. Not medical advice. Always consult a veterinarian regarding supplements for pets.

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