proanthocyanidins in veterinary medicine: bioavailability, applications, and effects on animal health

Proanthocyanidins are polyphenolic compounds found in fruit seeds, peels, nuts, cereals, legumes, wine, and chocolate. these compounds influence the nutritional value and sensory properties of foods while exhibiting protective effects against cardiovascular diseases, cancers, urinary tract infections, diabetes, and age-related metabolic disorders. although their bioavailability is limited depending on the degree of polymerization, they are metabolized by the gut microbiota into phenolic acids and derivatives, which mediate their biological activities. in veterinary medicine, proanthocyanidins are applied to support urinary tract, oral health, and infectious disease management in cats and dogs, and to enhance rumen fermentation, protein digestibility, and control of parasitic infections in ruminants. current literature confirms their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory properties, highlighting their potential use in veterinary nutraceuticals and feed additives. this review summarizes the bioavailability, veterinary applications, and effects on animal health of proanthocyanidins based on recent studies, and discusses directions for future research.