Fenugreek

Trigonella foenum-graecum

Evidence: BFamily: Fabaceae

Mucilaginous seed with galactagogue, hypoglycemic, and appetite-stimulant effects; supports nursing dams, diabetic pets, and animals recovering from illness or inappetence.

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: moderate term

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: caution

Cats

Use Caution

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: caution

Horses

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: safe

Rabbits

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: caution

Birds

Safe

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: safe

Guinea Pigs

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: caution

Dosing Guide

General guidance only — always consult your veterinarian.

SpeciesFormDoseFrequencyNotes
Dogsdried herb0.25-0.5 tsp /kgtwice dailyGround seed per 10kg; mix with food for appetite or glycemic support.
Horsesdried herb15-30 gramsonce dailyFor 450kg horse; appetite and conditioning support top-dressed on feed.
Catsglycerin tincture0.1-0.25 ml /kgtwice dailyPer 5kg; dilute in food. Strong odor; may need flavor masking.

Active Compounds

Trigonelline(alkaloid)
4-hydroxyisoleucine(other)
Diosgenin(saponin)
Galactomannan(mucilage)

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

Safety Warnings

Surgery Warning

Do not use in pregnant animals; oxytocic activity may induce uterine contractions.

Essential Oil Form

Moderate clinical evidence for galactagogue and hypoglycemic effects across species.

Quick Info

Plant Family

Fabaceae

Parts Used

seed

Available Forms

dried herb, capsule, tea, glycerin tincture

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