Dr Doug is a veterinarian, and much of the Turmeric User Group’s experience comes from dogs and horses. Start with the basics below, then browse the articles for each animal.
Before you start: if your animal is on any medication, is pregnant, or is due for surgery, check with your vet first. High-strength 95% curcumin capsules are not recommended for animals; use turmeric powder or Golden Paste instead.
Dogs
Start with a small amount mixed into food, about 1/4 teaspoon of Golden Paste or turmeric powder (with oil and black pepper), at least twice a day. Increase gradually over two to three weeks. If you see loose stools, drop back to about 1/8 teaspoon for a while.
→ Turmeric for dogs: getting started
→ All dog and cat articles
Cats
Cats are fussier eaters and much smaller, so start with a very small amount (a pinch, or a smear of Golden Paste) in wet food. Talk to your vet first, especially if your cat has kidney or liver problems or takes medication.
Horses
Most owners start with about 1 teaspoon of a turmeric, oil and black pepper mix twice a day in wet feed, and increase about once a week until they find a maintenance amount. There’s no set dose; little and often works best.
→ All horse articles
A common surprise
Some dogs and horses develop a “cat pee” smell when they start turmeric. It usually fades within a couple of weeks. Adding about a tablespoon of Ceylon cinnamon (not cassia) to a batch of Golden Paste can help.
