AIM: Shark cartilage has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-angiogenic, anti-tumoral, and immunomodulatory properties. We studied the effect of shark cartilage on the healing of colonic anastomoses, which are among the gastrointestinal system anastomoses that most commonly cause leakage. MATERIAL OF STUDY: Rabbits were divided into two groups of seven as the study and control groups. A normal diet was given to both groups before and after right colonic anastomosis. Shark cartilage tablets were given orally to the study group for five days before and after the anastomosis. Bursting pressures, hydroxyproline levels and translocation of the intestinal flora in anastomosis region were evaluated on the 6th day by operating on both groups. RESULTS: Bursting pressure and hydroxproline levels were higher in the experimental group compared to the control group (p<0.05). An increase in connective tissue and vascularization without growth of microorganisms was observed in the experimental group on microbiological examination. CONCLUSIONS: Shark cartilage given orally to rabbits increased anastomotic healing and did not cause serious consequences such as bacterial translocation