Cleaver
1 food contains this ingredient
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About Cleaver
Cleaver (Galium aparine, also called goosegrass) is a wild herb occasionally added to pet herbal blends for its traditional diuretic and lymphatic role.
Cleaver (Galium aparine) is an herbal botanical sometimes included in pet supplements and functional treats for its traditional use as a mild diuretic and lymphatic/skin-supporting herb, rather than as a meaningful source of protein or calories. It may provide trace vitamins, minerals and fiber, but scientific evidence in dogs and cats is limited, so owners should use products containing cleaver cautiously—avoiding use in pregnant animals or pets with kidney disease and consulting a veterinarian about possible interactions with medications.
- Derived from
- Galium aparine plant (aerial parts, dried or fresh)
- Primary role
- herbal functional additive, not a nutrient source
Why it's used
Herbalists have long reached for cleavers as a spring tonic thought to support fluid movement through the lymphatic system and mild urinary output, and some pet herbal blends borrow that traditional use for skin, gland, or allergy support. It is included in trace amounts for its purported herbal action rather than to add protein, fat, or calories to the diet.
Common concerns
- Limited formal animal research Most documentation of cleavers' effects comes from human herbal tradition and general herbalism references rather than controlled veterinary studies in dogs or cats.
- Species misidentification The common name 'cleavers' is sometimes confused with unrelated plants; owners foraging fresh material should confirm it is Galium aparine and not a different species before offering it.
- Diuretic interaction potential Because of its traditional diuretic action, cleavers could theoretically compound the effect of prescription diuretics or affect hydration status, which is why veterinary input is worthwhile for pets on medication.
Also relevant
The plant's small hooked bristles can make fresh, unprocessed cleavers stick to fur or feel prickly if chewed, which is a mechanical rather than toxicological consideration.
Common Questions
What category is Cleaver?
Cleaver is categorized as a herb ingredient in the KibbleLab database.
Is Cleaver part of an allergen group?
No allergen group is linked to Cleaver in the KibbleLab database.
Which foods contain Cleaver?
1 food in the KibbleLab database contain Cleaver, including Earth Animal.
Foods with Cleaver
Alphabetical by brand. Scores run 0 to 10, higher is better, on published veterinary science.
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