Wheat Gluten + Monosodium Glutamate Combination

What is wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate?

The combination of wheat gluten and monosodium glutamate (brand name: For-Bid) is a veterinary food additive used to deter coprophagy (eating stool). Wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate is used in dogs, cats, and horses.

Dietary supplements are substances that can be used to supplement the diet, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, botanicals, enzymes, and probiotics. While many supplements or food additives are sold over the counter, they may contain ingredients that have biological effects that should be managed by your veterinarian. Follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.

There are differences in how countries regulate supplements. In the United States, these substances are not as vigorously regulated by the FDA as other medications, which means they can be sold without the manufacturer proving their effectiveness or safety, and without a guarantee of consistent or accurately reported ingredients. In Canada, products that have been evaluated for quality, safety, and effectiveness by Health Canada and authorized for sale will have a license number on the label.

How does wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate work?

After ingestion, wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate is excreted in the stool unaltered, creating a foul taste that often results in an aversion to coprophagy. Several doses may be required for the best effect. If the pet eats another pet’s stool, then adding wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate to that pet’s meals will be required. Consult your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your pet’s diet.

How is wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate given?

• Give wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate in powder form, sprinkled on food.
• If using dry food, moisten the food with water before adding wheat gluten+monosodium glutamate.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions for how much to give your pet.

You should see a response after 5–6 days.

What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?

If you miss a dose, give it when you remember. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed, give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.

Are there any potential side effects?

Wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate combination is generally recognized as safe. There have been occasional reports of loose stools with administration.

Are there any risk factors for this supplement?

Wheat gluten+monosodium glutamate should not be used in pets that are sensitive to it. 

It may not be recommended for a pet with kidney disease.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The use of steroids with wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate can result in product failure.

Vitamins, herbal therapies, and supplements have the potential to interact with each other, as well as with prescription, over-the-counter medications and food additives. It is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including all vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.

Is any monitoring needed with this food additive?

No specific monitoring is required while your pet is taking this food additive. Monitor your pet at home for side effects and report anything abnormal to your veterinarian.

How do I store wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate?

Store at room temperature in a dry place. Follow storage recommendations according to the package label.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the food additive, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.