Cartilage is a slippery and resilient tissue produced and maintained by its own specialized cells. It cushions the surfaces where two or more bones meet to form a flexible joint. When a dog is in motion there is tremendous pressure on the joint. Cartilage, joint fluid, and underlying bone work together like a shock absorber allowing flexible joint function.

Because cartilage lacks a direct blood supply, nutrients must pass into the cartilage from surrounding tissue. These nutrients sustain cartilage cells and provide the components necessary to maintain a healthy cartilage structure. Scientists are not sure about all the factors that cause cartilage breakdown; however, they have discovered enzymes that play a role in the process.

With age, injury, or over-activity, the process of breakdown can exceed the process of replacement leading to problems in the joints. These problems result in less flexibility. That’s when it’s time for Cosequin^® which maintains the cartilage structure and inhibits the enzymes that break down cartilage.