Pets

Medicinal Mushrooms for Pets (Dogs & Cats): What To Know

Quick take: Certain medicinal mushrooms show promise for immune balance, calm/sleep, senior cognition, gut health, and steady energy in pets. The strongest dog-specific evidence today is for Turkey Tail (PSP) as a vet-guided oncology adjunct. Everything else ranges from emerging to encouraging—so pair smart sourcing with your veterinarian’s advice. PMC

What the science says

Turkey Tail (Trametes/Coriolus versicolor)

In a University of Pennsylvania pilot trial of dogs with splenic hemangiosarcoma, high-dose PSP extract (I’m-Yunity®) delayed metastasis and extended survival compared with historical expectations—without chemotherapy. It’s not a cure, but it’s the clearest canine study we have and a common adjunct discussion with oncologists. PMC

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Rich in β-glucans and triterpenes; used for calm/sleep routines and antioxidant/liver support. Clinical monographs flag potential interactions (e.g., anticoagulants, immunosuppressants), so vet guidance is important, especially around procedures/medications. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

In aged dogs, diets containing Lion’s Mane shifted gut microbiota toward a healthier profile—relevant to gut–brain aging. Preclinical and human studies point to neurotrophic pathways (NGF/BDNF) that may matter for senior clarity; veterinary trials are early. PMC

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)

A β-glucan–rich culinary mushroom; veterinary research suggests benefits for markers tied to immune and metabolic wellness in dogs. Recent work with shiitake powder reported favorable shifts in lipids and related signals. PMC

Cordyceps (C. militaris/sinensis)

Pet data are limited. In people, short-course cordyceps blends improved VO₂max and tolerance to high-intensity exercise, which is why some vets consider it for active/working dogs—always context-specific. PMC

Safety first

Never let pets forage wild mushrooms—some species (e.g., Amanita) are lethal. If ingestion is suspected, contact your veterinarian/poison control immediately. aspcapro.org

How to choose a good pet mushroom product?

  • β-glucans % listed (not just “polysaccharides”).

  • Fruiting body disclosed (or a transparent fruiting-body/mycelium blend).

  • Cracked/cell-wall broken if using Reishi spores (for better availability).

  • COA for heavy metals, pesticides, microbes; pet-safe excipients (no xylitol; avoid onion/garlic flavors).

How to use?

Why SomaPet Pro Stands Out (6-Mushroom Blend)

What it is: A proprietary, full-spectrum blend of Turkey Tail, Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Shiitake, Cordyceps, and Maitake—designed as an everyday wellness base for dogs (and vet-guided use in cats).

Simple use plan

  • Week 1: ¼ dose → Week 2: ½ dose → Week 3+: label dose (with meals).
  • Track three cues for 2–8+ weeks: sleep quality, playfulness, reactivity.

What it may support

  1. Immune balance (β-glucans from Turkey Tail, Shiitake, Maitake).
  2. Calm & sleep (triterpene-rich Reishi for evening wind-down). Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
  3. Senior clarity & gut aging (Lion’s Mane; microbiome angle). PMC
  4. Steady “go” on active days (thoughtful Cordyceps use). PMC

Quality pillars

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