Supplements for dogs and cats: Everything you need to know

When it comes to the health of our pets, love and quality kibble are not always enough: extra support is often necessary. Supplements for dogs and cats play an important role in ensuring a balanced intake of nutrients, especially in cases of deficiencies, medical conditions, or specific health needs.

What are dietary supplements for animals?

Dietary supplements are products formulated to supplement the daily diet of dogs and cats with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients. They are not medications, but rather a supplemental treatment useful in various situations:

• Senior animals with reduced nutrient absorption

• Growing puppies or kittens

• Pregnant or nursing females

• Convalescent or debilitated dogs and cats

• Joint, intestinal, skin, or immune system issues

Essential vitamins for dogs and cats

The nutritional needs of dogs and cats differ, but there are some fundamental vitamins that are useful for both:

- Vitamin D and vitamin D3: help with the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for strong bones. In cats, a deficiency can lead to rickets; in dogs, it can lead to muscle weakness.

- Vitamin B12 and B vitamins: involved in cellular metabolism, they improve appetite and support neurological functions.

- Vitamin C: although dogs produce this vitamin on their own, supplementation can be useful in situations of stress or inflammation. Cats, however, may benefit from it when suffering from chronic diseases.

- Vitamin E: an antioxidant that protects the skin, coat, and immune system.

- Vitamin K: important for blood clotting, especially in animals with liver issues or those undergoing drug therapy.

- Vitamin D in food: some foods contain it naturally, but not always in sufficient quantities.

Complementary feed: Daily support

In addition to supplements in capsules or tablets, there are also complementary feeds. These products are formulated to support the animal's main meal, enriching the diet with functional ingredients.

Unlike concentrated supplements, complementary feeds can be used daily as an integral part of the diet. They may contain vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, probiotics, or plant extracts that help support digestion, skin, joints, or the immune system.

They are particularly popular because:

- They are often more palatable, even for picky cats;

- They are easier to administer by mixing them into food;

- They allow for gentle and continuous supplementation, ideal for maintaining nutritional balance.

Formats: Which one to choose?

Dietary supplements are available in various formats: capsules, chewable tablets, liquids, or powders to add to food. Capsules are often preferred for their convenience for medium-to-large dogs, while liquid forms or flavored powders are preferred for cats.

Complementary feeds can also be found in pastes, functional kibble, or enriched snacks: formats that combine efficacy and taste.

Where to buy them safely?

To ensure quality and safety, it is important to purchase supplements only through reliable channels, such as:

- Your trusted pharmacy (which often also stocks veterinary products)

- Specialized e-commerce sites with attentive customer service and qualified advice

The importance of veterinary advice

Never administer supplements for dogs or cats without first consulting a veterinarian. Every animal has different needs, and even vitamins, if taken in excess, can cause harm. Only an expert can recommend the most suitable supplemental treatment, the correct dosage, and the duration.

Discover all the supplements for dogs and cats available in our online shop and choose the best for your pet!  

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