Pet supplements have enjoyed double digit growth for over a decade, closing in on $2 billion in sales this year. As with human supplements, consumers are turning to more natural ways to provide their pets with targeted health support. However, the path toward acceptance of supplements hasn’t always been a smooth ride.
Veterinarians approach supplements with a healthy dose of skepticism. In many cases, they demand detailed information on ingredients and scientific proof to back up claims – something that large companies are equipped to supply for prescription drugs. But, over time, many veterinarians have embraced supplements and herbs as another option for pet health. Vets are requiring that these supplements or herbs demonstrate:
- Safety – non-toxic ingredients without dangerous side effects
- Known mechanisms of action – how they work in the body
- Evidence of effectiveness – through scientific studies
10 Best Supplements for Cats
According to the Colorado State University Center for Comparative and Integrative Pain Medicine, the following supplements or herbs meet these three criteria.
- Omega-3 fatty acids support normal inflammatory response, brain function and healthy skin and coat.
- Milk thistle supports normal hepatic response and liver functions, including healthy waste elimination and normal detoxification of environmental impurities.
- Glucosamine promotes cartilage development, healthy bone and joint functions and normal inflammatory response.
- Lavender, diffused in oil form, promotes a calm demeanor and is often used to help with travel upset.
- Botswellia promotes normal inflammatory response and helps relieve occasional joint stiffness.
- Theanine promotes relaxation and balanced behavior for cats experiencing temporary periods of high anxiety.
- Valerian promotes a calming effect and sleep for restless cats.
- Probiotics promote the right balance of beneficial gut bacteria which has been linked to a strong immune system.
- CoQ10, an antioxidant, supports normal heart health and circulatory function.
- Curcumin supports normal inflammatory response and cellular health.
As with all medications, supplements or herbs, it is best that you consult your veterinarian before introducing them to your cat. Even safe supplements can cause minor side effects which could interact with other medications. For example, giving Omega-3 fatty acids too fast could cause diarrhea, and valerian could interact with anesthesia or pain medications.
This blog is brought to you by Under the Weather®, makers of a line of award-winning freeze-dried bland diets for dogs and a new line of supplements for cats. Check us out!
Under the Weather is also an avid participant in the pet overpopulation cause. A portion of every sale is channeled to the Ruffy Rescue Transport Fund which finances the transportation of pets from overpopulated shelters around the U.S.A. to Vermont for adoption. The fund also covers the cost of spaying and neutering these animals. Get to know more about Ruffy and the inspiration for our company.
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