ProDen PlaqueOff® and Side Effects in Dogs, Cats, and Humans
In this article:
ProDen PlaqueOff® is a natural supplement for improved oral health, used worldwide by humans as well as dogs and cats. It helps to reduce plaque, tartar, and bad breath.
The active ingredient is the unique algae A.N. ProDen® (Ascophyllum nodosum), which grows naturally in the cold, nutrient-rich waters along the Scandinavian coastline. The algae works systemically through the saliva, making plaque less likely to adhere and helps existing tartar gradually soften.
The effect is clinically documented and proven, and several products in the range are VOHC-certified, a quality mark recommended by veterinarians across the world.
A Safe Solution – With a Few Important Exceptions
ProDen PlaqueOff® has been on the market for over 30 years and more than 5 billion doses have been sold. The product is generally safe and well tolerated, but as with any supplement, there are a few things to keep in mind:
• ProDen PlaqueOff® should be avoided in cases of hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid), as algae naturally contain iodine. In cases of hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), iodine may actually be beneficial. However, if you or your pet has any thyroid-related conditions, we always recommend consulting a vet or doctor before use.
Thyroid issues are uncommon in dogs, but can occur in both cats and humans. If you or your pet are healthy, there is no reason for concern.
• Mild digestive reactions such as loose stools may occur when the supplement is first introduced, especially if too high a dose is given initially. This is easily managed by reducing the dose and gradually increasing it over time. If you know that you or your pet have a sensitive stomach, you can also start with a lower dose.
Why might digestive issues occur? Algae naturally have a high fibre content. While fibre is generally beneficial for gut health, some individuals may temporarily experience gas, diarrhoea, or a quicker gut transit time when the product is first introduced. These reactions are common in the beginning and are not harmful.
Iodine Levels in ProDen PlaqueOff®:
- Under normal circumstances, iodine intake is beneficial and an important part of the diet. However, in cases of hyperthyroidism (which is rare), iodine should be avoided, and algae naturally contain iodine.
- One scoop of ProDen PlaqueOff® Powder weighs 330 mg and contains approximately 0.198 mg of iodine.
- This corresponds to about 0.5% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of iodine for pets, meaning it is well within safe levels.
Allergies to algae are very rare, making ProDen PlaqueOff® a safe choice for the vast majority of animals and people. As with any supplement, individual needs may vary, so it can be sensible to introduce the product gradually.
When it comes to dosage, there is a recommended daily amount, but it is not absolute. The taste of the algae may feel unfamiliar to some cats and dogs. In such cases, starting with a lower amount can be beneficial. Others, particularly those with already hardened plaque or tartar, may benefit from a slightly higher starting dose to “kick-start” the process. After a period of use, the dose can then be adjusted back down to the normal level.
By tailoring the dosage to the individual and using the product regularly, noticeable improvements in the form of cleaner teeth, healthier gums, and fresher breath are typically seen within 3 to 8 weeks of use.
How ProDen PlaqueOff® Works
- The algae is absorbed naturally in the body via powder or chew products for dogs and cats, and via capsules for humans.
- It works through the saliva – which becomes a “tool” against plaque and tartar.
- The saliva is activated to break down existing plaque and tartar, while also helping to prevent new build-up.
ProDen PlaqueOff® Comes in Several Formats
For Dogs:
• Powder
• Dental Bones (in two sizes)
• Soft Chews
• Dental Bites (crunchy bites)
Here you can find the category page with all dog dental care products.
For Cats:
• Powder
• Soft Chews
• Dental Bites
• Coming soon: ProDen PlaqueOff® Crème
Here you can find the category page with all cat dental care products.
For Humans:
Possible Side Effects in Dogs
Most dogs tolerate ProDen PlaqueOff® without any issues, but some may experience mild reactions when the supplement is first introduced.
These may occur:
• Mild digestive upset at the start: Some dogs may develop loose stools when the product is introduced. This is harmless and usually resolves on its own. You can reduce the risk by starting with a low dose and increasing gradually.
If Your Dog Doesn’t Like the Taste
The taste and smell of the algae in powder form may feel unfamiliar to some dogs.
To make it easier:
• Mix the powder with something extra tasty, such as wet food.
• Start with a very small amount and increase gradually.
• Or try one of our other product formats, such as Dental Bites or Dental Care Bones, available in flavours like bacon, vegetables, turkey, and chicken.
Introducing the product already during puppyhood can make a big difference. The dog becomes accustomed to the taste early on, and you establish a natural dental care routine from the start.
Possible Side Effects in Cats
Most cats tolerate ProDen PlaqueOff® very well, but as with any supplement, some may experience mild reactions when the product is first introduced.
These may occur:
• Mild digestive upset at the start: Some cats may experience loose stools when the product is introduced. Start with a low dose and increase gradually to reduce the risk.
If Your Cat Doesn’t Like the Taste
Cats are often more particular than dogs, and the taste of the algae may feel unfamiliar at first.
Here’s how you can make the introduction easier:
• Mix the powder into something extra tasty, such as wet food or a small amount of pâté.
• Start with a very small amount and increase gradually as your cat gets used to the taste.
• Try alternative product formats if the powder isn’t received well: Dental Bites with salmon flavour, or our upcoming ProDen PlaqueOff® Crème, made with 25% chicken breast.
The cat version of the powder also contains yeast to make the flavour more appealing, but all cats are individuals, so a bit of trial and error may be needed to find the right format. Some cats even prefer the dog version of the powder.
Introducing the product already during kittenhood can also make a big difference. Early introduction helps the cat accepts the taste more quickly, and the dental care routine becomes a natural part of everyday life.
FAQ: ProDen PlaqueOff® and Side Effects
Yes, the product is designed for daily use throughout life. The natural algae is nutrient-rich and well tolerated by dogs, cats, and humans.
Yes, ProDen PlaqueOff® Dental is a safe and well tolerated supplement for humans. Mild digestive upset may occur; if so, reduce the dose. It is not recommended for individuals with thyroid issues (hyperthyroidism) due to the naturally high iodine content.
Yes, you can combine the products since they contain the same active algae ingredient. It can be helpful to give different formats on different days. For example, powder one day and chews the next. The most important thing is that your pet receives roughly the same daily dose. The recommended amount is a guideline, and every animal is an individual — feel free to test what works best.
Start with a minimal dose mixed into their favourite food. If that doesn’t work, try Dental Bites Salmon or our upcoming product, ProDen PlaqueOff® Crème.
Since the algae Ascophyllum nodosum is harvested from the natural marine environment, the product may contain traces of fish and shellfish. Therefore, we do not recommend it for individuals with fish or shellfish allergies.
ProDen PlaqueOff® and Side Effects in Dogs, Cats, and Humans
ProDen PlaqueOff® is a natural supplement for improved oral health, used worldwide by humans as well as dogs and cats. It helps to reduce plaque, tartar, and bad breath.
The active ingredient is the unique algae A.N. ProDen® (Ascophyllum nodosum), which grows naturally in the cold, nutrient-rich waters along the Scandinavian coastline. The algae works systemically through the saliva, making plaque less likely to adhere and helps existing tartar gradually soften.
The effect is clinically documented and proven, and several products in the range are VOHC-certified, a quality mark recommended by veterinarians across the world.
A Safe Solution – With a Few Important Exceptions
ProDen PlaqueOff® has been on the market for over 30 years and more than 5 billion doses have been sold. The product is generally safe and well tolerated, but as with any supplement, there are a few things to keep in mind:
• ProDen PlaqueOff® should be avoided in cases of hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid), as algae naturally contain iodine. In cases of hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), iodine may actually be beneficial. However, if you or your pet has any thyroid-related conditions, we always recommend consulting a vet or doctor before use.
Thyroid issues are uncommon in dogs, but can occur in both cats and humans. If you or your pet are healthy, there is no reason for concern.
• Mild digestive reactions such as loose stools may occur when the supplement is first introduced, especially if too high a dose is given initially. This is easily managed by reducing the dose and gradually increasing it over time. If you know that you or your pet have a sensitive stomach, you can also start with a lower dose.
Why might digestive issues occur? Algae naturally have a high fibre content. While fibre is generally beneficial for gut health, some individuals may temporarily experience gas, diarrhoea, or a quicker gut transit time when the product is first introduced. These reactions are common in the beginning and are not harmful.
Iodine Levels in ProDen PlaqueOff®:
- Under normal circumstances, iodine intake is beneficial and an important part of the diet. However, in cases of hyperthyroidism (which is rare), iodine should be avoided, and algae naturally contain iodine.
- One scoop of ProDen PlaqueOff® Powder weighs 330 mg and contains approximately 0.198 mg of iodine.
- This corresponds to about 0.5% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of iodine for pets, meaning it is well within safe levels.
Allergies to algae are very rare, making ProDen PlaqueOff® a safe choice for the vast majority of animals and people. As with any supplement, individual needs may vary, so it can be sensible to introduce the product gradually.
When it comes to dosage, there is a recommended daily amount, but it is not absolute. The taste of the algae may feel unfamiliar to some cats and dogs. In such cases, starting with a lower amount can be beneficial. Others, particularly those with already hardened plaque or tartar, may benefit from a slightly higher starting dose to “kick-start” the process. After a period of use, the dose can then be adjusted back down to the normal level.
By tailoring the dosage to the individual and using the product regularly, noticeable improvements in the form of cleaner teeth, healthier gums, and fresher breath are typically seen within 3 to 8 weeks of use.
How ProDen PlaqueOff® Works
- The algae is absorbed naturally in the body via powder or chew products for dogs and cats, and via capsules for humans.
- It works through the saliva – which becomes a “tool” against plaque and tartar.
- The saliva is activated to break down existing plaque and tartar, while also helping to prevent new build-up.
ProDen PlaqueOff® Comes in Several Formats
For Dogs:
• Powder
• Dental Bones (in two sizes)
• Soft Chews
• Dental Bites (crunchy bites)
Here you can find the category page with all dog dental care products.
For Cats:
• Powder
• Soft Chews
• Dental Bites
• Coming soon: ProDen PlaqueOff® Crème
Here you can find the category page with all cat dental care products.
For Humans:
• Capsules
Read more about our product for humans.
Possible Side Effects in Dogs
Most dogs tolerate ProDen PlaqueOff® without any issues, but some may experience mild reactions when the supplement is first introduced.
These may occur:
• Mild digestive upset at the start: Some dogs may develop loose stools when the product is introduced. This is harmless and usually resolves on its own. You can reduce the risk by starting with a low dose and increasing gradually.
If Your Dog Doesn’t Like the Taste
The taste and smell of the algae in powder form may feel unfamiliar to some dogs.
To make it easier:
• Mix the powder with something extra tasty, such as wet food.
• Start with a very small amount and increase gradually.
• Or try one of our other product formats, such as Dental Bites or Dental Care Bones, available in flavours like bacon, vegetables, turkey, and chicken.
Introducing the product already during puppyhood can make a big difference. The dog becomes accustomed to the taste early on, and you establish a natural dental care routine from the start.
Possible Side Effects in Cats
Most cats tolerate ProDen PlaqueOff® very well, but as with any supplement, some may experience mild reactions when the product is first introduced.
These may occur:
• Mild digestive upset at the start: Some cats may experience loose stools when the product is introduced. Start with a low dose and increase gradually to reduce the risk.
If Your Cat Doesn’t Like the Taste
Cats are often more particular than dogs, and the taste of the algae may feel unfamiliar at first.
Here’s how you can make the introduction easier:
• Mix the powder into something extra tasty, such as wet food or a small amount of pâté.
• Start with a very small amount and increase gradually as your cat gets used to the taste.
• Try alternative product formats if the powder isn’t received well: Dental Bites with salmon flavour, or our upcoming ProDen PlaqueOff® Crème, made with 25% chicken breast.
The cat version of the powder also contains yeast to make the flavour more appealing, but all cats are individuals, so a bit of trial and error may be needed to find the right format. Some cats even prefer the dog version of the powder.
Introducing the product already during kittenhood can also make a big difference. Early introduction helps the cat accepts the taste more quickly, and the dental care routine becomes a natural part of everyday life.
Cats are often more particular than dogs, and the taste of the algae may feel unfamiliar at first.
Here’s how you can make the introduction easier:
• Mix the powder into something extra tasty, such as wet food or a small amount of pâté.
• Start with a very small amount and increase gradually as your cat gets used to the taste.
• Try alternative product formats if the powder isn’t received well: Dental Bites with salmon flavour, or our upcoming ProDen PlaqueOff® Crème, made with 25% chicken breast.
The cat version of the powder also contains yeast to make the flavour more appealing, but all cats are individuals, so a bit of trial and error may be needed to find the right format. Some cats even prefer the dog version of the powder.
Introducing the product already during kittenhood can also make a big difference. Early introduction helps the cat accepts the taste more quickly, and the dental care routine becomes a natural part of everyday life.
FAQ: ProDen PlaqueOff® and Side Effects
Is it safe to give ProDen PlaqueOff® every day over a long period?
Yes, the product is designed for daily use throughout life. The natural algae is nutrient-rich and well tolerated by dogs, cats, and humans.
Is ProDen PlaqueOff® safe for humans?
Yes, ProDen PlaqueOff® Dental is a safe and well tolerated supplement for humans. Mild digestive upset may occur; if so, reduce the dose. It is not recommended for individuals with thyroid issues (hyperthyroidism) due to the naturally high iodine content.
Can I combine different formats, such as powder and chew products?
Yes, you can combine the products since they contain the same active algae ingredient. It can be helpful to give different formats on different days. For example, powder one day and chews the next. The most important thing is that your pet receives roughly the same daily dose. The recommended amount is a guideline, and every animal is an individual — feel free to test what works best.
My cat is very fussy — what should I do if they refuse the powder?
Start with a minimal dose mixed into their favourite food. If that doesn’t work, try Dental Bites Salmon or our upcoming product, ProDen PlaqueOff® Crème.
Can I use ProDen PlaqueOff® if I’m allergic to fish or shellfish?
Since the algae Ascophyllum nodosum is harvested from the natural marine environment, the product may contain traces of fish and shellfish. Therefore, we do not recommend it for individuals with fish or shellfish allergies.