In modern days, dog owners are often living in close proximity with their dogs. Many pet owners are looking for solutions to minimise the offensive odour coming from their pets' stool. An ingredient that has gained increasing attention in the pet food industry is Yucca schidigera extract. This natural extract, derived from the Yucca schidigera plant native to the southwestern United States, has been making its way into pet food formulations due to its remarkable benefits in controlling stool (poo) odour. In this article, we'll explore what Yucca schidigera extract is, where it's from, and the advantages it brings to pet food in terms of stool odour controlfor our beloved pets.
What is Yucca schidigera extract?
Yucca schidigera extract is derived from the Yucca schidigera plant, a succulent native to the arid regions of the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. This plant has been used for centuries by Native American tribes for its various medicinal and practical uses. Traditionally, it was known for its healing properties and was used for conditions ranging from arthritis to wound healing. The plant is characterised by its long, sword-shaped leaves and striking white flowers. In recent years, Yucca schidigera extract has found a place in the pet food industry due to its potential to address two common pet owner concerns: stool odour and stinky farts.
The extract is typically derived from the stem and root of the plant and contains several bioactive compounds, such as:
- Saponins – natural detergents that help reduce ammonia and improve nutrient absorption
- Polyphenols – antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress
- Resveratrol – a compound associated with anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects
These constituents are what make Yucca schidigera a functional ingredient in modern pet food formulations.
The Benefits of Yucca schidigera Extract in Pet Food
The most compelling reason for incorporating Yucca schidigera extract into pet food is its ability to reduce stool odour. Pet owners often grapple with the unpleasant task of cleaning up after their furry companions, and the smell can be particularly overpowering. Yucca schidigera extract contains saponins that when added to dry and wet pet food, can neutralise ammonia produced in the gut, a major contributor to foul-smelling stools and stinky farts. By decreasing ammonia production, this super ingredient helps mitigate the pungent odours associated with pet waste.
1. Odor Control of Waste
One of the best-known advantages of Yucca schidigera extract is that it minimizes odor in pets' feces and urine. This is largely because of its saponin content, which:
- Decreases ammonia production, the prime source of odors
- Enhances gut health, resulting in less fermentation and improved digestion
- Assists in binding nitrogen substances present in waste and reducing their volatility
Several studies have shown dramatic declines in ammonia emission in animals being fed Yucca schidigera extract-supplemented diets, and as such, it is a welcome addition to the indoor pet food or kennel environment where odor management is at a premium.
2. Aids Digestive Health
Yucca schidigera saponins have a surfactant effect, which has the potential to increase nutrient absorption and stabilize digestion. This results in:
- Lower incidence of diarrhea or loose stool
- Consistency of feces improved
- More effective fat and protein absorption
Enhanced digestion not only makes pets feel better but also optimizes the nutritional content of the diet, particularly useful in older animals or those with impaired digestive systems.
3. Anti-Inflammatory and Immune-Modulating Activity
Yucca schidigera is also rich in resveratrol and polyphenols, recognized for their powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. These substances:
- Fight oxidative stress, which causes chronic diseases
- Decrease inflammatory cytokines, which play a role in arthritis, skin diseases, and allergies
- Support the immune system, potentially assisting pets in combating infections and minimizing allergic reactions
Certain studies even indicate the potential of Yucca schidigera in the alleviation of joint pain and arthritis, especially among aging dogs, due to its natural anti-inflammatory effect.
4. Enhanced Palatability and Coat Condition
Although not its main function, Yucca schidigera has also been found to:
- Enhance palatability when applied in the appropriate concentration, making food more palatable to finicky eaters
- Assist skin and coat condition by supporting digestion and nutrient uptake, particularly fat-soluble vitamins such as A and E
Common Applications in Pet Food
Yucca schidigera extract is a versatile additive and can be found in a wide range of pet products, including:
- Dry kibble for dogs and cats
- Wet or canned foods
- Pet treats and supplements
- Functional chews for odor or joint support
- Raw and freeze-dried formulations
It is often listed on the ingredient label as "Yucca schidigera extract," "Yucca extract," or "Yucca powder." In most commercial pet foods, it is included at low inclusion rates-typically 0.01–0.2% of the formula-which is sufficient to provide functional benefits without affecting taste or texture.
Is Yucca Schidigera Safe for Pets?
Used at recommended concentrations, Yucca schidigera extract is safe for dogs and cats. The saponins, although biologically active, occur in pet foods at very low concentrations and do not carry a toxicity risk. At extremely high doses, though, saponins irritate the gastrointestinal tract and could induce vomiting or diarrhea. That is why it is so important that manufacturers employ standardized extracts and include within guidelines. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) permits the use of Yucca schidigera extract in pet foods, subject to proper usage.
Conclusion
Yucca schidigera extract is a functional, safe, and natural ingredient that imparts a whole array of advantages to pet food. From helping minimize waste odor to maintaining digestive and joint health, it's an all-purpose addition that suits nicely with contemporary trends toward healthier, cleaner pet nutrition. Yucca schidigera extract is a natural ingredient that in most instances can help manage stool odour. Its saponin-rich composition makes it a valuable addition to pet food formulations such as VitaPet Dog Food.
Whatever the application-coming up with canine or feline food, operating a kennel, or merely wanting to be able to increase your dog's or cat's health at home-Yucca schidigera-containing products provide the intelligent and research-based answer.
References:
Beynen, A. C. and Saris, D. H. J. (2016) "Beating odour with Yucca schidigera." Unpublished. doi: 10.13140/RG.2.2.33167.79523.
Lowe, J. A. et al. (1997) "The effect of Yucca schidigera extract on canine and feline faecal volatiles occurring concurrently with faecal aroma amelioration," Research in veterinary science, 63(1), pp. 67–71. doi: 10.1016/s0034-5288(97)90160-0.
Lowe, J. A. and Kershaw, S. J. (1997) "The ameliorating effect of Yucca schidigera extract on canine and feline faecal aroma," Research in veterinary science, 63(1), pp. 61–66. doi: 10.1016/s0034-5288(97)90159-4.
Roque, N. C. et al. (2011) "Increasing levels of zeolite and Yucca schidigera in diets for adult cats," Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia, 40(11), pp. 2471–2475. doi: 10.1590/s1516-35982011001100027.
Vierbaum, L. et al. (2019) "In vitro evaluation of the effects of Yucca schidigera and inulin on the fermentation potential of the faecal microbiota of dogs fed diets with low or high protein concentrations," Archives of animal nutrition, 73(5), pp. 399–413. doi: 10.1080/1745039x.2019.1616498.
