Turkey Tail (PSP/PSK) in Dogs & Cats: Immune & Oncology Research

Turkey Tail (PSP/PSK) in Dogs & Cats: Immune & Oncology Research

Review of PSP/PSK research in dogs and cats—immune modulation, antioxidant defense, and oncology support. Science-forward veterinary summary.  

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Turkey Tail (PSP/PSK) in Companion Animals: Immune & Oncology Research

Evidence Summary ·

Abstract. The mushroom Trametes versicolor (Turkey Tail) is one of the most clinically studied fungi in veterinary and human oncology. Its polysaccharopeptide fractions, PSP and PSK, modulate immune signaling, improve quality of life during chemotherapy, and demonstrate promising outcomes in canine cancer models. Early in-vitro and translational findings indicate immune and antiviral benefits that may extend to feline applications.

Mechanisms of action

  • β-Glucan-rich glycoproteins (PSP/PSK): stimulate macrophage, dendritic, and NK cell activity while normalizing cytokine balance.
  • Antioxidant defense: PSP/PSK enhance glutathione and catalase activity, protecting cells from oxidative chemotherapy stress.
  • Microbiome modulation: Prebiotic polysaccharides increase beneficial gut flora and short-chain fatty acid production, improving intestinal resilience.

Canine evidence

  • Hemangiosarcoma pilot study (Brown & Reetz, 2012): PSP (100 mg/kg/day) significantly prolonged median survival and delayed metastasis.
  • Immunomodulation studies: Turkey Tail extracts increased CD8+ T-cell and NK-cell function while reducing inflammatory cytokine ratios.
  • Quality-of-life metrics: Dogs receiving PSP supplements during chemotherapy maintained appetite and activity levels longer than controls.

Feline relevance

While large-scale feline clinical trials are still developing, in-vitro models using feline immune cells show enhanced interferon and NK activity. β-glucan-rich extracts from Trametes and other basidiomycetes have demonstrated antiviral and antioxidant potential relevant to chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation in cats.

Safety and formulation

PSP/PSK are considered safe in veterinary applications at studied doses. Mild digestive adjustment may occur initially. Always use verified fruiting-body extracts and consult a veterinarian for concurrent therapy planning.

References (MLA)

  1. Brown, Dorothy C., and Jennifer A. Reetz. “Evaluation of a Polysaccharopeptide Extracted from Trametes versicolor (Turkey Tail) in Dogs with Hemangiosarcoma.” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012, Article ID 384301.
  2. 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.
  3. Xu, T., et al. “Polysaccharopeptides of Trametes versicolor: Mechanisms of Immunomodulation.” Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2022.
  4. Hlaoperm, C., et al. “Dual Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Effects of Phallus indusiatus in a Feline Infectious Peritonitis Model Using PBMCs.” Veterinary Sciences, 2025.

MLA 9 format. Educational content only.

Educational content only. Not medical advice. Always consult a veterinarian before introducing supplements.

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