new trend in pets

Pets, like other members of the family, require attention and care. And trends in their nutrition, health and well-being follow the same path as humans.

When it comes to medicine, for example, there are advances in homeopathic or naturopathic medicine, which uses various pseudo-scientific practices classified as natural and non-invasive, with very good results.

In animal medicine, the naturopathic alternative produced phytogenics originally used in animals bred for human consumption. In an other saying, Medicines were used to prevent people from consuming too much chemicals. But over time the purpose has changed and phytogenics have been used to improve animal welfare and prevent disease. Its efficacy has been pharmacologically proven in animals and humans.

Now, what are phytogenics?

Plants have incredible qualities to improve the performance of animals and humans. From this discovery comes phytogenics: they are standardized combinations of bioactive compounds found in nature.

One of the pioneers in developing such drugs for animals in Colombia is the pharmaceutical company Pharvet. The laboratory has been in operation for 29 years and has expanded its product offering over time. It started in the livestock and poultry industry and has had a welfare line for pets based on phytogenics for the past six years.

Lácides Serrano, scientific director and founder farvet, teacher and researcher of pharmacology in veterinary medicine, says the line of specialization in pets was born due to a change in perspective: the relationship between humans and their pets has become so close that today it is a member of the family. The demand to secure their welfare thus increased.

Pharmaceutical company Serrano explains that it is currently focusing on the development of phytogenics. prevents diseases and has no significant disadvantages of side reactions or side effectsand a range of nutraceutical supplements – powerful foods that go beyond nutrition.

Can phytogenics replace traditional medicine?

“Absolutely not. Each pharmacology has a different purpose,” explains Serrano.

Chemical or traditional drugs attack diseases directly and instantly. It is better understood with an example: if a pet shows pictures of urinary tract infection, farvet recommends using Uriphar, a food supplement they have developed with phytogenic principles. It is made from cranberry and cinnamon extract, D-mannose and zinc.

Suitable for dogs and cats of all ages, the drug will help control and prevent contamination in the urinary system. However, if they are already advanced and have compromised an organ, they should be treated with a chemical drug that attacks the disease instantly.

Given the growing trend to favor natural foods and medicines, and to seek prevention and non-invasive treatments rather than cures, Serrano believes: Phytogenics are the future of veterinary medicine: “I dare say that for veterinary and human medicine as well.”

Now the biggest challenge for this industry is to continue to develop the best combinations of natural ingredients while making use of its active ingredients.

*Content developed with support from Pharvet.