Horsetail

Equisetum arvense

Evidence: CFamily: Equisetaceae

Silica-rich ancient plant used for connective tissue support, urinary health, and coat/hoof quality; species selection critical due to toxic relative Equisetum palustre.

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: cautionYoung: caution

Cats

Safe

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: cautionYoung: caution

Horses

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: unsafe

Rabbits

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Birds

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Guinea Pigs

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Dosing Guide

General guidance only — always consult your veterinarian.

SpeciesFormDoseFrequencyNotes
Dogsglycerin tincture0.25-0.5 drops /lbtwice daily6-8 weeks on, 1-2 weeks off; supplement B-complex during extended use.
Catsglycerin tincture1-3 dropsonce dailyShort courses for urinary support only.
Dogscapsule5-15 mg /lbtwice dailyStandardized silica content; for connective tissue support.

Active Compounds

Silicic acid(other)
Equisetonin(saponin)
Thiaminase(other)Cat Unsafe
Flavonoids(flavonoid)

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

Quick Info

Plant Family

Equisetaceae

Parts Used

whole plant, stem

Available Forms

dried herb, glycerin tincture, tea, capsule

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