Cosequin vs. Dasuquin for Cats – Vet Guide 2025 🐱💊

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Joint health is critical for your cat’s comfort—especially as they age or show early signs of arthritis. In 2025, two of the most recommended veterinary joint supplements are Cosequin and Dasuquin. Both support mobility and cartilage protection—but they’re not identical. This detailed guide compares these products, explains ingredients, benefits, and when to choose one over the other—with professional guidance and options from Ask A Vet, Woopf, and Purrz. 🩺🐾

1. Why Joint Support Matters for Cats 🐈🦴

Studies show that up to 90% of cats over age 12 experience joint disease—often with subtle signs like stiffness, reduced jumping, or withdrawn behavior. Supplements like Cosequin and Dasuquin help preserve cartilage, reduce inflammation, and improve comfort in cats with:

• Osteoarthritis (OA)
• Injury or joint trauma
• Early signs of stiffness or joint wear
• Post-operative recovery from orthopedic procedures

2. What’s in Cosequin? 💊

Cosequin is a long-standing joint supplement containing:

• 🔹 Glucosamine hydrochloride: Helps form cartilage and protect against wear.
• 🔹 Chondroitin sulfate: Supports elasticity and shock absorption in joints.
• 🔹 Sometimes includes MSM (methylsulfonylmethane): Offers anti-inflammatory support.

Available in sprinkle capsules for cats—ideal for picky eaters. Cosequin is commonly used for early joint support or as a preventive supplement.

3. What’s in Dasuquin? 💪

Dasuquin contains everything in Cosequin plus:

• 🟢 ASU (Avocado–Soybean Unsaponifiables): Unique to Dasuquin, ASU protects cartilage, reduces enzymes that degrade joints, and improves joint cell regeneration.
• 🟢 Enhanced formulation: Research supports that ASU+glucosamine+chondroitin offers superior protection for moderate-to-severe arthritis.

Dasuquin is often veterinarian-recommended for cats showing signs of pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility.

4. Head-to-Head Comparison 🆚

5. Which Should You Choose? 🧐

• 🟦 Choose Cosequin if your cat is:
• Showing mild joint symptoms
• A picky eater—sprinkle capsule is easier
• New to joint supplements
• You’re budget-conscious
• 🟩 Choose Dasuquin if your cat has:
• Moderate to severe stiffness
• Visible pain when jumping or walking
• Failed to improve on Cosequin alone
• Veterinary diagnosis of osteoarthritis

6. What Do Vets Say? 🩺

“Cosequin is excellent as a first step for early-stage support, but for cats with moderate arthritis or joint damage, I almost always switch them to Dasuquin for its ASU component.” — Dr. Megan Reed, DVM

Veterinarians also recommend pairing joint supplements with:

• Soft bedding
• Ramps or steps to reduce jumping
• Low-sided litter boxes
• Gentle weight management if overweight

7. Common Questions & Answers ❓

🟠 Can I switch from Cosequin to Dasuquin?

Yes—no weaning required. Just finish your current supply and begin Dasuquin at its recommended dose.

🟠 Can I use both together?

No need—Dasuquin includes everything in Cosequin plus more. Using both is unnecessary and costly.

🟠 What if my cat won’t eat the tablet?

Try breaking open the capsule and mixing the powder with canned food or a lickable treat.

🟠 Are there side effects?

Both are well-tolerated. Occasional soft stool or decreased appetite may occur, especially with Dasuquin. Rare soy sensitivities can cause GI upset.

8. Ask A Vet, Woopf & Purrz Integration 🛠️

Ask A Vet: Share your cat’s mobility videos, supplement logs, and past treatments. Receive custom supplement plans and health tracking tips.

Woopf: Find orthopedic beds, food-height platforms, and sprinkle dispensers to ease dosing and mobility.

Purrz: Offers play therapy tools and mild exercise aids for arthritis-safe enrichment—vital for joint health.

9. Final Thoughts 🌟

Cosequin and Dasuquin are both outstanding supplements with decades of safe use. Dasuquin offers enhanced power for arthritic cats, while Cosequin is ideal for early support or budget-friendly maintenance. Your cat’s behavior, comfort, and quality of life are the best indicators for choosing the right product—and in 2025, you don’t have to guess. Let the science and your vet lead the way. 💖🐾

10. Call to Action 📲

Not sure which to pick? Use Ask A Vet—share videos, mobility changes, or supplement use history. Explore Woopf orthopedic gear and Purrz therapeutic enrichment to support comfort and play for cats with joint concerns. 🐱📱