Absorption trial of ginkgo biloba extract in cats

Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antiviral properties and induce peripheral vasodilation. It is widely reported in the scientific literature that these properties are useful for elderly humans and animals. EGb can be administered to senior cats by adding it to their food, which ensures regular and continual administration. The presence of EGb flavonoids in this study was confirmed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector and mass spectrometry. The goal of this study was to establish EGb flavonoid absorption in cats. Four privately owned, healthy cats of different sexes, ages, and breeds were included in the study. The standardized EGb (glycosylated flavonoids: 24%; terpene lactones: 6%) was administered at 20 mg/kg with 50 g of dry food (Bayer Fito Progres Cat Senior®) followed by qualitative and quantitative evaluation of quercetin in plasma at fixed times. Blood samples were collected in heparinized tubes before EGb administration in all four cats; after 1, 3, and 5 hours in two cats; and after 5, 7, and 9 hours in the remaining two cats. Plasma quercetin concentrations were established without knowledge of study group by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Flavonoids from EGb were absorbed by cats, and their main metabolite, quercetin, was present in the blood for up to 5 hours. Furthermore, none of the cats showed any adverse effects (e.g., diarrhea). This evidence encourages the use of EGb, administered alone or added to the diet, to improve cat wellness.