As our beloved felines age, they may experience some creakiness in their joints, slowing down their once nimble movements. To tackle these issues, it’s essential to feed them with joint supplements like Cosequin and Dasuquin.
Now, in this article, we will delve into the details of both products to help you make an informed decision and select the most suitable option for your furry friend.
But before we dive into the in-depth comparison between Cosequin vs Dasuquin for cats, let’s have a quick look at the table to provide a concise overview:
| Features | Cosequin | Dasuquin |
| Produced by | Nutramax Laboratories | Nutramax Laboratories |
| Active Ingredients | Glucosamine & Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate | Glucosamine & Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate |
| Additional Ingredients | Manganese | Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU), Green Tea extract |
| Dosage | *Initial 4 to 6 weeks
– Under 10 lbs. (4.5 kg) = 1 capsule daily – Over 10 lbs. = 2 capsules daily *Long-term – Administer capsules every other day, with the numbers depending on the cat’s needs |
*Initial 4 to 6 weeks
– Under 10 lbs. (4.5 kg) = 1 capsule daily – Over 10 lbs. = 2 capsules daily *Long-term – Under 10 lbs = 1 every other day – Over 10 lbs = 2 every other day |
| Forms | Tablets, capsules, soft chews | Chewable tablets, sprinkle capsules, soft chews |
| Availability | Veterinary clinics, pet stores, online stores | Veterinary clinics, pet stores, online stores |
| Cost | Affordable | Costly |
Table of Contents
Comparing Cosequin vs Dasuquin in Detail
1. Overview
The first one to be produced was Cosequin, which continues to be one of the most well-known names on the market! A little later, Dasuquin came into the picture, which contained a special ingredient called Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU). Both of these health supplements are solely manufactured by Nutramax Laboratories.
Generally, these two products are health supplements for dogs, cats, and even horses! Dasuquin and Cosequin for cats were made to help our furry friends, particularly senior felines with arthritis, feel more mobile and comfortable.
Both joint supplements give the body the necessary nutrients to maintain and repair joint cartilage!
2. Similarities
- Active Ingredient
Both Cosequin and Dasuquin contain glucosamine and chondroitin as their primary active ingredients. These ingredients are considered the dynamic duo for maintaining healthy cartilage and supporting those agile kitty joints!
Glucosamine does the heavy lifting by aiding cartilage production and repair, and chondroitin keeps the cartilage bouncy, elastic, and well-hydrated, providing cushy support to those nimble joints.
- Dosage
The ideal dosage will depend on your feline’s weight and the recommendation of your furry bud’s vet. But normally, in the initial 4 to 6 weeks, felines weighing under 10 lbs. (4.5 kg) were given one capsule/tablet daily. As for those over 10 lbs., two capsules/tablets are each day. And this applies to both Cosequin and Dasuquin.
3. Differences
1. Additional Ingredients
- Cosequin possesses an element exclusive to its formulation—manganese ascorbate. This naturally occurring mineral greatly contributes to bone health, ensuring comprehensive support for maintaining robust and resilient bones.
Manganese deficiencies can precipitate cartilage deterioration, making the inclusion of this mineral particularly valuable in Cosequin’s composition.
- On the other hand, Dasuquin takes it up a notch with an extra ingredient in the mix—ASU, short for Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables. It might sound fancy, but it’s just a natural plant extract that packs a punch!
This plant-derived extract has demonstrated considerable promise in elevating joint function and mitigating inflammation. By fostering the synthesis of fresh cartilage and impeding enzymatic degradation, ASU elevates the efficacy of Dasuquin as a joint support supplement.
2. Form
Typically, Cosequin is often given as capsules and soft chews. The supplement’s active ingredients are packaged in capsules for ease of use and convenience.
Dasuquin, on the other hand, is made in the form of chewable tablets or sprinkle capsules. These pills are made to taste good to cats and frequently resemble treats, making them more palatable and tempting to eat!
4. Pros and Cons
Cosequin
- It includes manganese for bone health and cartilage preservation.
- Capsule form for easy administration
- Can be sprinkled on food.
- Lacks ASU, an additional ingredient found in Dasuquin, which may provide enhanced joint support.
Dasuquin
- It has ASU, a natural extract with potential anti-inflammatory effects, and supports new cartilage formation.
- It also has a natural green tea extract.
- Chewable tablet form, more appealing to cats.
- Also available in sprinkle form
- Slightly more expensive than Cosequin.
- Does not contain manganese, which may be beneficial for bone health.
5. Cost Comparison: Counting the Catnip
In terms of the costs and prices between Dasuquin vs Cosequin, the former is typically more expensive because it contains more active ingredients.
In some online stores, Cosequin usually costs around 10$-15$ while Dasuquin costs around 16$-25$ or more.
6. Popular Products for Each Brand
Undeniably, both brands have their fair share of other related products. Cosequin offers not only its standard Cosequin for Cats but also Cosequin for Cats Maximum Strength PLUS Boswellia, a treat for households with a whole pride of feline friends!
Dasuquin, on the other paw, showcases its regular Dasuquin for Cats and the Dasuquin Advanced, which contains an enhanced ingredient formula for extra support!
Related: How Often Should You Take Your Cat to the Vet?
Which is Better for Your Cat: Choosing the Purr-fect Winner
But now here comes the million-dollar question—which one is better for your cat? To weigh things off, if your cat has allergies to particular ingredients like ASU or is a picky eater, Cosequin for Cats might be a better option.
On the other hand, if your cat requires advanced joint support or has severe joint issues, Dasuquin, with its added ASU and MSM, may offer more comprehensive benefits!
In the end, it all still depends on your beloved feline’s preferences. And also, a trip to the wise vet will undoubtedly clear up the fog! They know your cat’s medical history like no one else and will guide you in making the right choice!
Conclusion
So there you have it, dear fur parents! No doubt that both Cosequin and Dasuquin for Cats are effective joint supplements, each with its unique advantages!
If you want to know any testimonies from other pet owners, you may also check out various forums available online. But of course, consulting the vet first is highly recommended before making a choice!
We hope that we have helped in answering your queries about Cosequin vs Dasuquin for cats!
I am Amy Sawy, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) graduate from the University of Kansas. y husband, Dr. Plummer, and I own a veterinary clinic in Phillipsburg, Kansas. In addition to my professional background, I am a devoted pet owner myself, with a household that includes dogs, rodents, and most notably, cats – a total of five felines in my home.
In 2020, I joined an organization as a professional writer, leveraging my experience and collaborating with my team to deliver the most valuable information for your cat’s care.
