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Kanna for dog anxiety is gaining attention as a natural alternative to prescription meds. Traditionally used for stress relief in humans, kanna (Sceletium tortuosum)may help calm anxious dogs—especially those dealing with separation, noise, or age-related stress.
Backed by early research and centuries of traditional use, kanna shows promise when used with vet guidance. Here's what pet owners should know about its benefits, risks, and safe use.
Kanna may help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs when used in standardized, pet-safe formulations.
Studies suggest kanna is well-tolerated in both dogs and cats, though more research is needed.
Always consult a veterinarian before giving your pet kanna or any new supplement.
Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent native to South Africa, traditionally used by the Khoisan people to reduce stress, elevate mood, and enhance social connection. Today, kanna is gaining attention for its potential to support emotional wellness—not just in humans, but also in pets.
Modern kanna products include:
Capsules
Powders
Tinctures
Functional treats
Standardized extracts
Because of its calming properties and low addiction potential, some holistic pet owners are exploring kanna as a gentle tool to support dogs with anxiety.
Dogs experience anxiety for many reasons, including:
Separation from their owners
Loud noises like fireworks or storms
Travel and vet visits
Age-related cognitive changes
Changes in routine or new environments
Many pet parents are turning to natural approaches over synthetic medications. With preliminary research and traditional use backing its mood-calming potential, kanna is emerging as a promising supplement for anxiety relief in dogs—when used correctly.
Emerging studies suggest kanna may be both effective and safe for pets when given in appropriate, standardized doses:
Canine Studies: A 2002 study in Japan found thatdogs tolerated kanna well and showed improved signs of cognitive function and reduced anxious behaviors.
Feline Studies: Follow-up research in 2004 confirmed its tolerability in cats under stressful conditions like confinement or travel.
Mechanism of Action:The active compounds in kanna—like mesembrine—work by modulating serotonin, which plays a key role in mood and stress regulation.
While these findings are promising, more robust veterinary studies are needed. For now, kanna should only be used under veterinary supervision, especially if your pet is taking other medications.
When used appropriately, kanna may help with:
Separation anxiety
Noise sensitivity (e.g., fireworks, thunder)
Vet visit stress
Travel and motion-related anxiety
Age-related cognitive stress
Post-operative agitation
Many pet owners report calmer, less reactive dogs with standardized kanna supplements during stressful events.
Yes—with caveats. Studies and anecdotal reports suggest that standardized kanna extracts are well-tolerated in pets when dosed properly. However, like any supplement:
It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution
It may interact with other medications
Dosing matters—too much can lead to side effects
Lethargy
Mild digestive upset
Changes in sleep or appetite
These side effects are rare and usually resolve when dosage is adjusted or the supplement is paused.
If you're considering kanna for dog anxiety, follow these guidelines:
Consult a Veterinarian:Always get professional input, especially if your dog is elderly, on medications, or has health conditions.
Choose Standardized Extracts:Standardized products provide consistent alkaloid levels for safer use.
Start Low and Monitor: Begin with the lowest effective dose and watch for changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels.
Avoid Human Products: Never give your dog raw kanna or supplements designed for humans.
Kanna is now being included in pet wellness products such as:
Calming chews or treats: Ideal for fireworks, travel, or visitors
Daily capsules: For dogs with chronic anxiety or age-related stress
Powdered toppers: Easy to sprinkle over food for consistent dosing
Creams or sprays: For localized relief during grooming or post-op care
These formats make it easier to give kanna in a stress-free, palatable way.
If kanna isn’t the right fit, consider these natural calming aids:
CBD for pets – often used for general anxiety and arthritis
L-theanine and tryptophan – promote relaxation without sedation
Chamomile or valerian (pet-safe blends only)
Adaptil diffusers – release calming pheromones into the environment
Behavioral training and puzzle toys – support mental stimulation
Always choose pet-specific products and check for interactions if combining with other treatments.
While most conventional vets may not yet recommend kanna due to limited U.S.-based studies, some holistic and integrative veterinarians are open to it—especially when using standardized extracts backed by early research.
The key is to partner with your vet to assess:
Your dog’s anxiety type
Any health conditions
Ideal dosage or complementary treatments
Monitoring strategy for side effects
Kanna is no longer just a human wellness trend—it’s becoming a trusted herbal tool in pet anxiety care as well. Rooted in centuries of traditional use and supported by early research, kanna offers a gentle, holistic way to support your dog’s emotional balance.
As with any supplement, the key to success is responsible use: consult your vet, choose standardized products, and monitor your pet’s response. Whether your dog struggles with fireworks, aging, or separation, kanna could be part of a thoughtful and natural care routine.
Ready to explore this gentle herb for your pup? Start small, stay informed, and always keep your pet’s safety at the heart of your choices.
Yes, when used in standardized form and under veterinary supervision. Early studies show good tolerability in both dogs and cats.
Prescription options include fluoxetine, trazodone, and clomipramine. Natural choices like kanna or CBD may also help, but always consult your vet.
Combine calming supplements (like kanna, CBD, or L-theanine) with enrichment, structured routines, and physical touch like petting or massage.
This depends on your dog’s needs. Options include CBD oil, Adaptil pheromone collars, or calming chews with kanna, L-theanine, or melatonin.
It may. Preliminary research suggests kanna can reduce stress-related behaviors. It’s best used alongside training and routine reinforcement.
Less barking or pacing, improved sleep, reduced clinginess, and more willingness to explore or relax are all signs of progress.
There is no universal dosage. Use products with standardized alkaloid content and follow manufacturer or vet recommendations closely.
Yes. It may support aging-related stress, confusion, or nighttime agitation. Combining kanna with joint or cognitive supplements can be especially helpful.
Kanna’s mood-lifting alkaloids (mesembrine, mesembrenone) act on serotonin, giving it a unique edge in emotional support without strong sedation.
“Sceletium—A review update”https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874108004042?via%3Dihub
“Clinical application of South African tea on dementia dog” https://www.researchgate.net/publication/288043830_Clinical_application_of_South_African_tea_on_dementia_dog
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