A pet’s diet and physical activity is crucial for them to remain the same happy, healthy friend you’ve always known them to be. But just like any living being, your pets are going to need supplements to stay that way. Store-bought pet food may just be okay to give your dog or cat every now and then, but to make sure they get all the nutrition they need, supplements are going to have to be your first choice.
Here are the scientifically-proven benefits of supplements on pets:
- Boosted immune system
Proper grooming and products are not the only way to help ward off diseases, as supplements are incredibly effective in improving the immune system of pets as well. Supplements contain antioxidants that maintain healthy cells and organs for your pet and protect them from free radicals that may cause them to become vulnerable to illnesses.
- Increased energy
Are your once active pets, who used to be able to run laps around you, suffering from a loss of energy? Or are they recovering from a recent illness? Pets that are unenergetic due to sickness, age, or other factors may be lacking in vitamins which are found in food supplements. These additives allow your pets to obtain a wide variety of minerals they would not otherwise get from their normal diet, and provide them a big improvement in their overall quality of life.
- Healthier fur and skin
Providing your pet with food supplements can reduce excess shedding and promote healthy skin and fur. Supplements that contain fatty acid and biotin can improve the condition of your pet’s skin and lead to a shinier, fuller coat of fur which is perfect for petting. Another benefit to supplements that contain fish oil is the alleviation and improved resistance to skin allergies and rashes the pet may be suffering from.
- Reduce inflammation and pain
Pets that are experiencing pain from reduced mobility and the creeping threat of arthritis will greatly benefit supplements that contain glucosamine. It keeps the threat of bone disease and deterioration at bay by repairing damaged cartilage and strengthening bones. Pets whose age has started to catch up to them would benefit from supplements that promote the health of bones and cartilage.
- Improve digestion and bowel movement
Worried that your pet may be experiencing problems digesting their food? An upset stomach can be painful for your pet, and may stop them from eating. If so, they may need supplements containing digestive enzymes which can help out in the process. These aid in the breaking down of food in the stomach, allowing them to absorb more nutrients from what they eat, as well as help them let it pass through their digestive system. They can also help boost the immune system of the stomach and the digestive tracts and make them more resilient against digestive upsets in the future.
Knowing when to use supplements
There are so many illnesses your pet may be vulnerable that it seems like a no-brainer to provide them with food supplements all the time. As beneficial as these food supplements are, using them without proper guidance or when they are perfectly healthy may have some undesired consequences. Be sure that appropriate supplements are used in the right dosage for the correct problem. Knowing when to use food supplements will aid considerably in keeping your pet healthy and safe from harm’s way. Pets that are provided with a complete and balanced diet may not be in immediate need of these supplements but may still be able to benefit from them regardless. For others that show clear symptoms of sickness or discomfort will exhibit the most noticeable benefit from these supplements, and if you are unsure, contacting your veterinarian will be a safe bet. And as always when in doubt, contact your vet for the best supplement suggestions for your pet.