Reishi mushrooms and lion’s mane for dogs and cats have many benefits, and you can even use them to help with behavioral issues!
Some dogs and cats suffer from stress, anxiety, and behavioral issues that can make training more difficult. Did you know that you can use functional mushrooms along with behavioral training to improve the well-being of your animal companion? Many pet owners use functional mushroom extracts to support the physical health of their dog or cat, but some mushrooms have a calming effect that can also help with behavioral issues!
Address behavioral issues with a combination of tools
Canine and feline behavior problems are complex and can be difficult to manage. There is no magic formula. One of the most effective approaches is to use a combination of supplements and training. A calming mushroom supplement will relax your dog or cat and help them focus, making behavior training more effective.
The physical health benefits of mushrooms are well known. This includes their ability to improve immune system function. But mushrooms contain many compounds, some of which can have a mental or emotional effect on our four-legged friends.
Reishi Mushrooms for Dogs and Cats
Historically, Zen masters have used the Reishi mushroom as a meditation aid because it is centered and grounded. It can also help with cognition. Reishi mushrooms contain the highest percentage of triterpenes of any mushroom studied. Triterpenes are chemicals made by plants and fungi. Some of these chemicals can activate certain brain receptors and can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression while improving concentration.
Lion’s Mane for cats and dogs
Another mushroom that can benefit behavior and anxiety is Lion’s Mane mushroom. This highly prized edible mushroom has been studied for its own unique triterpenes. These mushrooms also contain a similar molecule called a diterpene in the mycelium, or root structure. Like Reishi, this mushroom can also help calm the mind.
Additionally, Lion’s Mane for cats can help with unwanted behaviors, such as fighting (in multi-cat households), house soiling, or destructive scratching. Don’t forget to combine the lion’s mane with some simple tricks that discourage unwanted behavior.
Lion’s Mane for dogs with canine cognitive impairment
Lion’s Mane is currently the most popular mushroom in North America for its ability to improve memory and treat mild dementia, thanks to triterpenes and diterpenes.
Older dogs can develop canine cognitive dysfunction, which has symptoms similar to Alzheimer’s disease. Some of these dogs get so serious that they can’t even find their dog’s door or their food bowl. Pet parents use Lion’s Mane to help sharpen these dogs’ minds. Although there are no published studies, there are anecdotal reports that Lion’s Mane for dogs can help them be more alert and present, although some dogs do better than others.
When you are having behavioral issues with your dog or cat, consider using high quality mushroom extracts from Real Mushrooms combined with behavioral work.
The Behavioral Issues? There’s a mushroom for that! first appeared on Animal Wellness Magazine.
