MCT Oil Improves Behavior in Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy

CHF Grant 02252: Investigating a Ketogenic Medium-Chain Triglyceride (MCT) Supplement for the Treatment of Drug-Resistant Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy and Its Behavioral Comorbidities

Publication: Berk, B. A., Packer, R. M. A., Law, T. H., Wessmann, A., Bathen-Nöthen, A., Jokinen, T. S., Knebel, A., Tipold, A., Pelligand, L., & Volk, H. A. (2020). Medium-chain triglycerides dietary supplement improves cognitive abilities in canine epilepsy. Epilepsy & Behavior. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107608

What can we learn?
A six-month, prospective, randomized, double-blinded, controlled, multi-center dietary crossover trial was conducted to evaluate the short-term effects of supplementation with medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil on cognitive abilities in epileptic dogs. 29 dogs completed the trial and at least one cognitive assessment. While taking MCT oil at a dose of 9% of their caloric intake, epileptic dogs performed better on spatial-memory and problem-solving tasks and had improved trainability scores.

Conclusion:
Medium-chain triglyceride oil shows promise as a dietary supplement to improve not only seizure control, but also the behavioral changes associated with canine idiopathic epilepsy. Addressing these behavioral changes is critical to maintain the human animal bond and improve quality of life for affected dogs and their owners.