Dolfos HepaDol, 60 tablets is a complementary dietary supplement to protect and restore liver function in dogs and cats from the Polish maker Dolfos. According to the manufacturer, it's a combined liver protectant with choleretic and antispasmodic properties. It contains milk thistle and silymarin, the amino acids ornithine and arginine, taurine, phospholipids, betaine, choline and B vitamins. The manufacturer lists uses including chronic hepatitis, fatty liver, toxic liver damage, biliary dyskinesia and liver support in chronic kidney failure.
How the ingredients work
Milk thistle and its active compound silymarin are well-known plant-based liver protectants that shield liver cells from toxins. Ornithine and arginine take part in the urea cycle, converting ammonia into urea. According to the manufacturer, taurine protects the liver from fibrosis. Phospholipids are involved in fat digestion and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, while betaine and choline support fat metabolism in the liver.
Key specs
| Ingredient (per tablet) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ornithine | 50 mg |
| Taurine / L-arginine | 33.3 mg each |
| Soybean extract | 25 mg |
| Phospholipids | 23.3 mg |
| Betaine | 16.7 mg |
| Milk thistle extract / silymarin | 8.3 / 6.7 mg |
| Vitamins | B group, biotin, folic acid |
| Pack | 60 tablets |
Dosage
Cats: 1 tablet a day. Dogs under 15 kg: 1 tablet; 15–30 kg: 2 tablets; over 30 kg: 3 tablets a day. Give with food. The recommended duration is up to 6 months. The manufacturer advises consulting a vet before use and before extending the course.
Pros
- A comprehensive formula. Milk thistle, amino acids, taurine and phospholipids.
- For dogs and cats. Clear dosing for both.
- Silymarin. A well-known plant liver protectant.
- Given with food. Easy to use.
- Per-tablet content listed. Easy to assess the dose.
- Courses up to 6 months. Suitable for longer-term support.
Cons
- Doesn't replace treatment. Hepatitis, cirrhosis and toxic damage need a vet.
- Diagnosis needed. Don't give it "just in case" without blood tests and an ultrasound.
- Contains soy. Bear in mind with soy allergies.
- A large dog needs 3 tablets a day. One pack lasts 20 days.
When to see a vet
Liver problems can go unnoticed for a long time. Watch for lethargy, reduced appetite, vomiting, weight loss, a yellowish tinge to the gums and whites of the eyes, pale stools, dark urine and a swollen belly. These signs call for an examination and tests, and the supplement is chosen after diagnosis. The liver also suffers during long-term medication — in such cases a vet may prescribe a liver protectant preventively.
The liver and diet
Overfeeding, fatty table scraps and sudden fasting are bad for the liver. In cats, prolonged refusal to eat, especially when overweight, can lead to fatty liver — a dangerous condition. More in excess weight in cats and dogs, what not to feed a dog and what not to feed a cat.
For senior pets
With age, the load on the liver and kidneys increases, so regular blood tests every 6–12 months are recommended for older dogs and cats. For kidney support, Dolfos has a separate supplement: Dolfos Lespedol Mini. On age-related changes, see senior dogs: diet and care and senior cats: diet and care.
Storage
Keep the tub tightly closed somewhere cool and dry, out of reach of pets and children.
Who it suits
Owners of dogs and cats with liver and biliary disease, and pets on long-term medication — on a vet's prescription. More products are in the veterinary pharmacy section.
Verdict
Dolfos HepaDol is a comprehensive liver supplement for dogs and cats with milk thistle, silymarin, ornithine, arginine, taurine and phospholipids, and clear weight-based dosing. Good support for liver disease and medication load. The downsides are that it doesn't replace treatment, requires diagnosis and a vet's advice, and a pack won't last a large dog long.
FAQ
How much for a cat?
1 tablet a day.
How much for a dog?
Under 15 kg: 1; 15–30 kg: 2; over 30 kg: 3 tablets a day.
How long should it be given?
Up to 6 months; extend only after consulting a vet.
Before or with food?
With food.
What's in it?
Milk thistle, silymarin, ornithine, arginine, taurine, phospholipids, betaine, choline and B vitamins.
Can it be used preventively?
Only on a vet's advice, for example during long-term medication.
How many tablets are in the pack?
60.
