Chaga

Inonotus obliquus

Evidence: BFamily: Hymenochaetaceae

Birch-dwelling sclerotial fungus rich in betulinic acid and melanin antioxidants; used in veterinary integrative medicine for immune support, oxidative stress, and adjunctive cancer care.

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

Safe

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Horses

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Rabbits

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: caution

Birds

Safe

Duration: moderate 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 herb0.25-0.5 grams /kgtwice dailyPer 10kg; dual-extract preferred for triterpene and polysaccharide bioavailability.
Catstea0.5-1 ml /kgtwice dailyPer 5kg; decoction mixed in wet food; avoid in cats with urinary crystals.
Horsesdried herb10-20 gramsonce dailyFor 450kg horse; immune and antioxidant support top-dressed on feed.

Active Compounds

Betulinic acid(terpene)
Inotodiol(terpene)
Melanin polyphenols(phenol)
Oxalic acid(other)Cat Unsafe

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

Safety Warnings

Surgery Warning

Use cautiously in animals prone to oxalate kidney stones; stop 2 weeks before surgery.

Essential Oil Form

Moderate modern research on antioxidant, antitumor, and immune effects; strong traditional use.

Quick Info

Plant Family

Hymenochaetaceae

Parts Used

whole plant

Available Forms

dried herb, capsule, tea

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