Frequently asked questions about PCQ Pet
Answers to the questions we hear most often. Use the search to jump to the right one.
About PCQ Pet
How does PCQ Pet compare to glucosamine or other joint supplements?
Glucosamine, MSM, and omega-3s are building-block supplements that support cartilage and tissue. PCQ Pet works on the underlying inflammation that drives joint discomfort. They address different parts of the same picture, which is why many owners use both alongside one another.
What is in PCQ Pet?
PCQ Pet contains three natural, plant-based ingredients: palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), curcuminoids from turmeric root, and quercetin (found in many fruits and vegetables). Combined in a patented 5:2:1 ratio.
PCQ Pet contains no allergens, fillers, preservatives, gluten, GMOs, natural flavors, artificial colors, added sugars, or animal products.
What is PEA, the main ingredient in PCQ Pet?
All mammals create palmitoylethanolamide, or PEA, when they metabolize dietary fats. Cells use it to regulate a healthy inflammatory and pain response.
When supplemented, PEA helps support comfort and a balanced inflammatory response in humans and companion animals.
Can I give it to my cat?
Yes. PCQ Pet is formulated to be safe for cats. Use the small-pet dose: one scoop (1/4 tsp) daily.
Dosing & use
What is the dosage of PCQ Pet?
For small dogs and all cats: 1/4 teaspoon per day, mixed with food.
For large dogs (40 lbs and up): 1/2 teaspoon per day.
For intensive use or loading dose: double the dosage for the first two weeks.
Please see the product label for complete product and dosage information. The ingredients in PCQ Pet have an excellent history of safety at higher dosages. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on usage at higher dosages.
Can PCQ Pet be mixed with any food?
Yes. PCQ Pet is an unflavored powder that dogs and cats accept easily. Mix the recommended dosage into their food. Wet food works best; it can also be sprinkled over kibble.
How long until I see results?
Most owners report visible changes within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent daily use. Some dogs respond faster, others need the full loading period plus a month of refills before owners notice the difference.
Will PCQ Pet stain my fingers or clothing?
PCQ Pet contains curcumin, the natural yellow pigment in turmeric root. It may temporarily stain surfaces it touches. Soap and water, rubbing alcohol, other detergents, and time will remove any yellow stain from most surfaces.
Quality & testing
Where is PCQ Pet made?
PCQ Pet is made in a GMP, FDA-registered facility in the United States that also produces human supplements. All ingredients are human food-grade and meet the strictest quality requirements for human foods and supplements sold in the US.
PCQ Pet contains imported ingredients sourced direct from qualified ingredient manufacturers. Because our founders are scientists and natural product quality experts, we ensure only the highest quality ingredients are used in every batch.
What testing is done on each batch of PCQ Pet?
PCQ Pet leads the pet supplement industry with rigorous quality control. Every batch must meet our specifications for potency (amount and strength of each ingredient), physical characteristics, and a full panel of contaminants including heavy metals and microorganisms.
We are one of the few pet supplement brands that publishes our Certificate of Analysis (CoA), which verifies the quality of each batch with third-party and internal testing. Each batch is third-party tested by qualified US laboratories. View our Certificate of Analysis.
What is the shelf life of PCQ Pet?
Our packaging may carry manufacture dates instead of expiration or 'best-by' dates. PCQ Pet is extremely stable when stored in cool, dry, dark conditions. Potency and quality are guaranteed for at least 2 years after the manufacture date.
The science
What are the studies on PCQ Pet?
PCQ Pet was evaluated in an independent clinical study at a leading US research university on older companion dogs. The study reported that 86% of dogs experienced improvement in comfort, physical activity, and quality of life with reduced limping. Read the full study report.
The peer-reviewed research behind the formula is the Britti et al. 2017 paper in BMC Veterinary Research on the PEA + quercetin precursor formulation.
A number of clinical trials on PEA have been published. View them on PubMed. Curcumin from turmeric has been the subject of more than 300 clinical studies indexed here. Quercetin has more than 300 published clinical studies indexed here.
Who is PEA for?
PEA is self-generating: all mammals naturally produce it to help regulate inflammation and discomfort.
Some animals may need more PEA than their body produces on its own to help maintain a balanced inflammatory response. Studies show that both pets and humans benefit when PEA is taken as a supplement.
Because PEA is produced naturally in the body, it has no known side effects.
What is the research on PEA?
A large body of science has been accumulated on PEA. 65 years of research has resulted in hundreds of papers published on the safety and efficacy of PEA in humans and animals. PEA is studied as a way to help support a balanced inflammatory and comfort response across many species of mammals.
Is PEA safe?
As a compound that is naturally created in all mammals, PEA has a remarkable safety profile.
PEA has been clinically studied for more than 30 years in Europe, where it is sold as a food supplement. Thousands of animal subjects, pets, and humans have consumed PEA in peer-reviewed, published, and controlled research studies. Across this body of work, PEA has consistently been found to be well tolerated and safe.
How does PEA work?
PEA is produced in our cells by an enzyme called fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), and it plays a role in the body's regulation of inflammation and discomfort.
PEA signals cellular regulators to support a healthy inflammatory response throughout the body, including the hips, joints, and skin of our four-legged companions.
For more, read about the science behind PCQ Pet.
Is it safe to give with my dog's other medications?
PCQ Pet is a nutritional supplement, not a drug. It is generally well tolerated. If your dog is on prescription medication (especially NSAIDs, blood thinners, or chemotherapy), talk to your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.
Subscribe & ship
How does subscribe and save work?
Get 20% off your first order and 15% off every refill thereafter. Refills ship every 30 or 60 days. You can pause, skip, or cancel anytime from your account dashboard.
When will my order arrive?
Orders ship within 1 business day. Standard US shipping is 3 to 5 business days. Free shipping on multi-packs and all subscription orders. Read the full delivery policy for details.
Can I cancel my subscription?
Yes. You can pause, skip, or cancel anytime from your account dashboard. No phone calls, no fees.
Guarantee & returns
Is there a money-back guarantee?
Yes. We offer an 8-week result promise: if your dog has not shown meaningful improvement after 8 weeks of consistent daily use, contact us for a full refund. Read the full 8-week result promise.
How do I request a refund?
Email hello@vitalpetsciences.com with your order number. We process refunds within 3 business days. No return shipping required.
