Flaxseed

Linum usitatissimum

Evidence: BFamily: Linaceae

Omega-3 rich seed (ALA), lignans, and soluble fiber supporting coat quality, skin health, and mild bowel regulation in dogs, cats, horses, and small mammals.

Consult Your Veterinarian First

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before using herbal remedies for your pet — especially if they are on medication, pregnant, or have existing health conditions.

Species Safety

An herb safe for one species may be toxic to another.

Dogs

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Cats

Use Caution

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Horses

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Rabbits

Use Caution

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: caution

Birds

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Guinea Pigs

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: caution

Dosing Guide

General guidance only — always consult your veterinarian.

SpeciesFormDoseFrequencyNotes
Dogsdried herb0.5-1 tsp /kgonce dailyFreshly ground per 10kg; mix with food. Soak 10 minutes if whole.
Horsesdried herb100-200 gramsonce dailyGround and stabilized or soaked; for 450kg horse. Top-dress feed.
Catsdried herb0.125-0.25 tsp /kgonce dailyFreshly ground per 5kg; prefer fish oil for EFA in cats.

Active Compounds

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)(other)
Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside(phenol)
Mucilage(mucilage)
Linamarin(glycoside)Cat Unsafe

Compounds marked Cat Unsafe (phenols and many terpenes) cannot be metabolized by feline livers.

Safety Warnings

Surgery Warning

NEVER feed whole raw seeds without soaking or grinding; contains cyanogenic glycosides. Always provide ample water.

Essential Oil Form

Strong nutritional evidence; moderate clinical evidence for coat and skin improvement.

Quick Info

Plant Family

Linaceae

Parts Used

seed

Available Forms

dried herb, capsule, infused oil, soft chew

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