Dolfos CardioDol, 250 ml is a syrup — a complementary dietetic product for dogs and cats that supports heart function in chronic cardiac insufficiency. According to the description, its components benefit the heart muscle. Each 5 ml contains L-carnitine 500 mg, taurine 100 mg and L-arginine 100 mg, plus selenium as sodium selenite. Low sodium and an increased potassium to sodium ratio are noted separately. The base of the syrup is water, maltodextrin and potassium chloride. The manufacturer recommends consulting a vet before starting or extending the course.
Dosage
Cats: 2.5 ml twice a day. Dogs up to 15 kg: 5 ml twice a day; dogs over 15 kg: 10 ml twice a day. The recommended duration is initially up to 6 months. The syrup is easy to measure with a needle-free syringe and give straight into the mouth or with a little food.
Key specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | dietetic supplement, syrup |
| For | dogs and cats with chronic heart failure |
| Per 5 ml | L-carnitine 500 mg, taurine 100 mg, L-arginine 100 mg, selenium |
| Feature | low sodium, increased K/Na ratio |
| Base | water, maltodextrin, potassium chloride |
| Cats | 2.5 ml twice a day |
| Dogs | up to 15 kg — 5 ml, over 15 kg — 10 ml, twice a day |
| Course | initially up to 6 months |
| Volume | 250 ml |
Pros
- L-carnitine and taurine. Substances important for heart muscle function.
- Low sodium. Salt is restricted in heart disease.
- Liquid form. Easy to dose and give, even to a cat.
- Clear doses. For cats and for dogs by weight.
- For dogs and cats. One bottle for different pets.
- Course stated. Up to 6 months to start with.
Cons and what to watch
- Selenium typo. The card says "30 mg" per 5 ml — such a dose would be toxic; micrograms are obviously meant. Check the pack.
- Not a medicine. The syrup complements but does not replace prescribed treatment.
- Potassium chloride. With some heart medications potassium is monitored — a vet's advice is needed.
- Runs out fast for large dogs. At 20 ml a day the bottle lasts less than two weeks.
Why L-carnitine and taurine
L-carnitine helps carry fatty acids into heart muscle cells, where they are turned into energy. Taurine is important for heart contractility, and in cats a shortage of it is directly linked to heart muscle disease. L-arginine is involved in regulating blood vessel tone. That is why these components are often included in cardiac supplements. But their effect builds up gradually and only alongside treatment.
Only together with a vet
Chronic heart failure is a serious disease for which the vet prescribes medication and monitors test results. The supplement is added on the vet's decision, especially if the dog or cat already takes drugs that affect potassium levels. The manufacturer explicitly recommends a consultation before starting and extending the course.
Signs that need a vet
Quick tiring, coughing, shortness of breath, fast breathing during sleep, fainting or a swollen belly are reasons to see a vet urgently rather than start supplements yourself. Watch older animals especially closely — see senior dog: diet and care and senior cat: diet and care.
Weight and exercise
Excess weight increases the load on the heart, so in heart disease weight control matters as much as medication. Discuss the diet and acceptable exercise with your vet. Weight control is covered in excess weight in cats and dogs.
Storage
Keep the bottle closed at room temperature and away from children. After opening, follow the shelf life stated on the pack.
Other Dolfos supplements
Dolfos makes supplements for other systems too, such as HepaDol for the liver. If your pet takes several supplements at once, show the list to your vet.
Who it suits
The syrup suits dogs and cats with diagnosed chronic heart failure as a complement to treatment prescribed by a vet. Other supplements are in the vitamins and mineral supplements section.
Verdict
Dolfos CardioDol is a heart support syrup for dogs and cats: 500 mg L-carnitine and 100 mg each of taurine and L-arginine per 5 ml, low sodium, clear doses and a course of up to 6 months. The downsides are the selenium typo in the card ("30 mg" instead of micrograms), potassium that needs monitoring during treatment, and the fact that it complements rather than replaces medication.
FAQ
How much for a cat?
2.5 ml twice a day.
How much for a dog?
Up to 15 kg — 5 ml, over 15 kg — 10 ml twice a day.
What is in it?
L-carnitine, taurine, L-arginine and selenium; the base is water, maltodextrin and potassium chloride.
How long should it be given?
Initially up to 6 months; extension is up to the vet.
Can I use it without a prescription?
The manufacturer recommends consulting a vet.
Is it a medicine?
No, it is a dietetic supplement that complements treatment.
How much selenium is in 5 ml?
The card has a "30 mg" typo; check the pack for the exact value.
