Also called Una de gato, cat’s claw is a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest, easily recognized by its tiny claw-shaped thorns.

This powerful herb has long been used in traditional medicine and is now gaining attention in equine care for its wide range of health benefits.

Known for its ability to strengthen the immune system, fight inflammation, and support joint health, cat’s claw offers a natural way to enhance your horse’s overall well-being.

What Is Cat’s Claw and Why It’s Used for Horses

For centuries, the Ashaninka, Aguaruna, and Shipibo tribes of the Amazon have used cat’s claw as a “helper herb” to heal the body, mind, and spirit. They brewed its bark and roots into teas to fight infections and restore energy after illness.

Modern research now confirms many of those traditional uses. Scientists have found that cat’s claw contains unique compounds—such as alkaloids, tannins, and quinic acid esters—that help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Today, cat’s claw for horses is valued for the same reasons. Whether your horse struggles with stiffness, arthritis, or recurring infections, this herb can be a valuable addition to their natural wellness plan.

Many equine owners are turning to cat’s claw supplements as a gentle but effective way to support recovery and overall health.

Cat’s Claw as an Immune Booster for Horses

How It Strengthens the Immune System

A strong immune system is essential for maintaining a healthy horse, especially for those who train hard, compete frequently, or recover from illness. Cat’s claw immune booster for horses helps balance and “reset” the immune system naturally.

It regulates white blood cell production, ensuring that these vital defenders work efficiently without damaging healthy tissue. When white blood cell levels are high, cat’s claw helps calm the immune response. When they’re low, it encourages more production, giving your horse the protection it needs.

In laboratory studies, cat’s claw has been shown to improve the ability of white blood cells to locate and destroy harmful microorganisms. It also boosts T-cell activity—cells that help fight off infections and maintain long-term immunity.

Because of these effects, cat’s claw is often recommended for horses prone to illness or recovering from stressful events like transportation, training, or surgery.

Cat’s Claw and Lyme Disease in Horses

One of the more promising uses is cat’s claw for Lyme disease in horses. While it’s not a standalone cure, it works well alongside veterinary treatment to improve the horse’s immune defense and reduce inflammation caused by bacterial infection.

Some early studies in both animals and humans have shown encouraging results, suggesting that cat’s claw helps reduce symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and immune weakness when used consistently.

Cat’s Claw for Inflammation and Joint Health

Reducing Pain, Swelling, and Stiffness

Joint pain and inflammation are common problems, especially in older horses or those involved in demanding physical activity. The natural compounds in cat’s claw—particularly its alkaloids and quinic acid derivatives—help inhibit the production of inflammatory substances in the body.

This makes cat’s claw for horse arthritis one of the best herbal options for managing discomfort naturally. When used regularly, it can reduce swelling in the joints, ease stiffness, and promote smoother movement.

Studies on humans with rheumatoid and osteoarthritis found significant improvements within just a few weeks of daily use, and the benefits continued to build over several months.

For horses, this means better mobility, faster recovery after workouts, and improved comfort during training or turnout. Many horse owners report noticeable improvements in flexibility and mood after introducing cat’s claw into their horses’ diet.

Fighting Internal Inflammation and Infections

Beyond joints, cat’s claw also helps manage inflammation in the digestive and urinary systems. Horses suffering from bowel, kidney, or bladder irritation—especially when linked to bacterial infection—can benefit from this herb’s natural detoxifying action.

It inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi while encouraging the growth of beneficial microbes in the gut.

This balance supports digestion and overall resilience. Horses with chronic inflammatory conditions or sensitive digestion may find long-term relief with cat’s claw for inflammation in horses when used under professional guidance.

Practical Uses for Cat’s Claw in Horses

Cat’s claw can be used in several ways depending on the condition being treated. A cat’s claw powder for horses can be mixed directly into feed or dissolved in warm water to create a mild tea.

This tea can serve as a base for a natural wound wash or hoof soak, which helps disinfect external wounds, abscesses, and cases of thrush.

For internal support, cat’s claw supplements are available in powder, capsule, or liquid extract form. They are commonly used to improve recovery after infections, support aging horses with joint issues, and maintain immune balance during seasonal changes.

The herb’s antioxidant content also helps neutralize free radicals, protecting your horse’s cells from damage and promoting healthy tissue repair.

Cat’s Claw Dosage for Horses

The right cat’s claw dosage for horses depends on several factors, including body weight, age, and current health condition. Always consult your veterinarian or an equine herbalist before starting supplementation. In general, the herb is safe when used in moderation, but overuse can cause mild stomach upset in some horses.

A typical starting point for adult horses is between 2 to 5 grams of dried cat’s claw powder per day, mixed into feed. Liquid tinctures can also be used following the manufacturer’s dosage instructions. It’s best to start on the lower end and adjust gradually based on your vet’s recommendation and your horse’s response.

Because of its immune-modulating effects, cat’s claw should not be used alongside certain medications that suppress or overactivate the immune system without veterinary supervision.

Antioxidant and Cellular Health Benefits

One of the lesser-known advantages of cat’s claw for horses is its high antioxidant content. These compounds protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress, promote healthy cell division, and even assist with DNA repair. In research studies, cat’s claw extracts have been linked to improved recovery from cellular damage caused by toxins or stress.

Although more studies are needed, there’s evidence suggesting that cat’s claw may help prevent some degenerative conditions and support longevity in both humans and animals. For horses exposed to physical strain, pollutants, or aging-related wear, this antioxidant support can make a noticeable difference in overall vitality.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a natural way to support your horse’s immune system, relieve inflammation, and maintain joint health, cat’s claw for horses is a proven and versatile option. Its ability to balance immune function, ease discomfort, and promote healing makes it a valuable addition to an equine wellness plan.

Always work with your veterinarian when introducing new herbs to ensure proper dosage and compatibility with existing treatments. With consistent use and professional guidance, cat’s claw can help your horse stay active, comfortable, and healthy for years to come.