A well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care are the cornerstones of your furry friend’s health. This leaves many pet parents to wonder if pet supplements are even necessary.  

Here’s what you should know about supplements for pets and how to choose the best one for your four-legged companion. 

When to Consider Supplements for Pets

As a veterinarian, I believe our pets can always benefit from a good supplement, even if they’re perfectly healthy. 

Most commercial pet foods have a satisfactory amount of essential vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, and fat. However, just as it is with humans, food alone can’t give their bodies all the nutrients they need to perform optimally. Pet supplements act as the missing link to a complete and balanced diet and ensure your pet’s body is better equipped to fight and prevent illness. 

Although I personally recommend a good supplement for any pet, here are certain instances you’ll want to get your furry friend started on one immediately. 

Age-Related Changes

As pets age, their nutritional requirements can change with them. Older pets might experience reduced appetite or difficulty absorbing certain nutrients. In such cases, supplements containing antioxidants and vitamins can support their immune system and overall well-being.

Dietary Restrictions

Some pets have dietary restrictions due to food allergies or sensitivities. If your pet is on a limited diet, supplements can help fill in nutritional gaps that might occur due to the restricted food choices.

Home-Cooked or Raw Diets

Pet owners who prepare homemade or raw diets need to be extra careful about providing all the necessary nutrients. In these cases, a veterinarian's guidance is crucial, and supplements might be recommended to ensure pets receive the right balance of nutrients.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Pregnant or lactating pets have increased nutritional needs to support themselves and their offspring. Supplements designed for this stage can aid in providing the additional vitamins and minerals required for a successful pregnancy and healthy litter.

6 Tips for Choosing the Right Supplements for Pets

1. Consult Your Veterinarian

Your veterinarian should be your first point of contact when considering supplements for your pet. They can evaluate your pet's health, dietary habits, and any existing medical conditions to determine which supplements will be most beneficial to your companion. 

2. Choose Reputable Brands

The current market is saturated with a surplus of pet supplements, but not all of these supplements are created equal. That’s why it’s important to look for products from reputable brands that adhere to quality and safety standards. 

Look for products with the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal, which indicates that the supplement has been audited and manufactured with quality and compliance in mind.

3. Read Labels Carefully

Before introducing a supplement into your pet's routine, carefully read the label and follow the recommended dosage. Overdosing on certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful to pets.

4. Avoid Over-Supplementation

While supplements can be beneficial, it's crucial not to over-supplement your pet. Giving multiple supplements without a clear need can lead to an imbalance of nutrients and potential health issues.

5. Monitor and Adjust

Once you've introduced a supplement, monitor your pet's response. Keep track of any changes in behavior, appearance, or overall health. If you notice any adverse effects, stop the supplement and consult your veterinarian immediately.

6. Don’t Rely on Supplements Alone

Remember that supplements are meant to complement a balanced diet, not replace it. The foundation of your pet's health should always be a high-quality, well-balanced diet. 

If you need help choosing the right food for your pet, set up an appointment with your veterinarian and they’ll help you get started. 

Supplements Driven By Devotion to Your Pets 

There is a lot to consider when choosing the best supplements for pets, but we’re here to help make your decision easy. 

At Fera Pet Organics, our pets are more than just companions. They’re members of the family. That’s why we’ve combined the best of both Western and Eastern medicines to create holistic supplements that support nearly every aspect of your pet’s body without the questionable ingredients found in most pet supplements. 

From joint support to skin and coat health, you’ll be sure to find just what your pet needs to live their best and healthiest life with you. Here are some of our bestselling natural supplements for pets that may be a great addition to your dog or cat’s daily regimen:  

• USDA Organic Probiotics with Prebiotics: Your pet’s gut plays a role in nearly every aspect of their overall health. This powdered blend of 12 living strains of good bacteria and 5 billion CFUs will help balance the digestive system, support the immune system, maintain skin and coat health, and more. 
• Calming Support for Dogs and Cats: Whether your pet struggles with separation anxiety or gets triggered by loud noises, this calming mixture of L-Theanine, GABA, and other natural ingredients is proven to settle the nerves and promote relaxation. 
• Hip + Joint Support for Dogs: These soft and tasty chews incorporate ingredients like organic turmeric, green-lipped mussel, and yucca root to support long-term mobility and activity for canines of all ages. 

Welcome to the Fera Family 

If you love your pets as much as we love ours, you’re in the right place! Our vet-recommended supplements for dogs and cats have brought pet lovers from every corner of the country together to set new standards for pet supplements, and we invite you to join us on this incredible journey. 

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