Lactium® is a natural milk protein hydrolysate containing a bioactive decapeptide called alpha-casozepine, known for its relaxing properties. By acting on GABA receptors in the brain, Lactium® reduces stress symptoms in dogs and cats.
But at what dose and how should it be administered? What effects can you expect and within what timeframe? We answer all your questions.
To ensure optimal effectiveness of Lactium®, it is important to administer it according to the recommended dosage. Unlike the dosage for humans, the daily recommended dose for pets is calculated based on their weight: a minimum of 15mg/kg/day. For instance, a 10kg dog should take 10 x 15mg, or 150mg of Lactium® per day, while a 5kg cat would only need 75mg (5 x 15mg).
You know your pet best and can identify triggers that upset them, such as vet visits, car travel, or vacations. Ideally, Lactium® should be administered a few days before a stressful event for your dog or cat, provided the event is predictable. If the event cannot be anticipated and your pet is already stressed when you begin administering Lactium®, you can double the dose, as some veterinarians do, to 30mg/kg/day (300mg for a 10kg dog, for example). This will help them manage the situation more quickly.
It goes without saying that Lactium® is ineffective at doses below the minimum of 15mg/kg/day. It is therefore important to ensure your pet consumes their full daily dose.
Lactium® is a versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated. It is available in complete diets (kibble, pâtés, soups) as well as complementary feeds (tablets, capsules, powders, pastes, etc.). This variety of formats should allow you to find the ideal option for your dog or cat.
When Lactium® comes in powder form, it can be sprinkled over your pet’s food to facilitate consumption. Similarly, if your pet has trouble swallowing capsules, you can open the capsule and mix its content directly with their food.
If you choose a complete food, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the daily dosage.
It is worth noting that Lactium® relaxes your pet without causing amnesia. Their ability to learn remains unaffected, allowing them to adapt better over time. This is particularly beneficial for young puppies or kittens who are newly adopted and adjusting to a completely new environment.
The first effects of Lactium® are typically noticeable within three to seven days. If administration is stopped, its effects fade quickly.
Lactium® is a natural ingredient with no side effects or toxicity for pets. It can be safely administered to pregnant and lactating queens and bitches, young puppies and kittens exploring their world, and senior pets experiencing anxiety due to changing environments.
Lactium® contains very little lactose (<1%), making it well-tolerated digestively.
It can also be combined with other treatments your pet is undergoing. However, if your pet is being treated with anxiolytics or other psychotropic medications, avoid adding other calming products like Lactium® without consulting your veterinarian. If your pet is transitioning off anxiolytics, your veterinarian may recommend Lactium® as a gentle, gradual substitute.
IN SUMMARY
Lactium® is a natural milk protein derivative containing alpha-casozepine. Easy to integrate into complete or complementary foods, it is straightforward to administrate. Being natural, it has no side effects or toxicity and is suitable for pets of all ages. Lactium® should be taken daily at a dose of 15mg/kg/day, which amounts to 150mg/day for a 10kg dog. The dose can be doubled for initial treatment or in cases of pronounced stress.
The first calming effects are typically observed between three to seven days. If the dose is insufficient or poorly consumed, Lactium® effects will diminish quickly. It is important to ensure your pet takes the full daily dose.
For more insights into stress, its impact on pets, and tips from our veterinary behaviorist, watch the episodes of our web series “Experts words – Lactalk Pet”.
