Palatability test of different pharmaceutical forms for administration of continuous-use medications in dogs: evaluation by owners

Treatment adherence in dogs with chronic diseases can be compromised by unappealing dosage forms, affecting therapeutic efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the acceptance of different dosage forms for administering continuous medications to dogs, based on the perceptions of their owners. Sixty dogs diagnosed with conditions such as congestive heart failure and chronic kidney disease were randomly assigned to five groups (n=12) to receive placebos in the form of functional biscuits, palatable pastes, powder sachets, oral suspensions, or capsules. The products were administered for three consecutive days, with daily records of acceptance, ease of use, and adverse effects. The results indicated greater acceptance for functional biscuits (95%) and palatable pastes (90%), followed by powder sachets (75%), oral suspensions (60%), and capsules (35%). Dosage forms administered with food performed better, while capsules had lower adherence, especially in small dogs. It is concluded that the choice of pharmaceutical form must consider technical and behavioral aspects, prioritizing palatable and easy-to-administer products to optimize therapeutic adherence in prolonged treatments.