Vitamins, antioxidants, and nutritional supplements, the pet stores will have you believing you need each and every one of them for your dog or cat. But, do dogs and cats really need supplements?
Nutritional supplements for pets are trending more and more lately, and for good reason. Fortified dog and cat foods add the minimum requirements of vitamins, but you pets need more. This has lead to a new mindset of pet health. Whereas before, pet owners took for granted that their commercial pet foods provided all they needed. But, recent discoveries show that dogs and cats need more than basic nutrition. As such, probiotics, enzymes, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids became buzz words on the product labels.
However, with all these new details, how do you know which nutritional supplement your pets really need? The good news is that there are specific nutrients every pet needs more of. Further, depending on your pet's specific nutritional status, there are targeted nutrients that bring therapeutic benefit. We say, know health signs before you start adding anything and everything to your pet's food.
Here's a guide to understanding which nutritional supplement your pet needs.
PET HEALTH EVALUATION: DOES MY PET NEED A DIETARY SUPPLEMENT?
Check your pet's appearance for these signs and evaluate where they can benefit from supplementation.
Recent digestive issues (diarrhea, constipation, gas): Supplemental probiotics and enzymes would be beneficial. That said, these are wellness supplements and should be included in all diets.
Weight loss: Supplemental enzymes, plus a multivitamin would be indicated for pets showing nutritional deficiency signs, such as weight loss.
Poor coat appearance: Pets with poor coat appearance can benefit from a high-quality omega-3 fish oil supplement, as well as a multivitamin.
Allergies (excluding food allergies): Specific vitamins and minerals could be added to the diet and help control allergies, as well as a probiotic supplement for immune system support.
Mobility issues and senior dogs (arthritis, painful moving, lethargy): Dogs with this issue, including all dogs over 7 years of age, can benefit from a joint nutrient supplement with a focus on improving mobility and reducing the pain associated with arthritis.*
BASIC NUTRIENTS ALL PETS NEED FOR WELLNESS
Let's be real, in this day and age, all pet's need a little boost to their diet. Therefore, we always recommend an pure omega-3 fish oil and probiotics, These are essential nutrient that should be included in every pet's diet. Because of environmental issues, excessive chemical use, pollution, and the over-processing of commercial diets, there is a strong argument to support their use.
Related: Understanding Probiotics for Pets: How to Pick the Right One
THE NUSENTIA® APPROACH TO VITAMIN & MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS: EFFICACY, QUALITY, AND VALUE
Typically, most vitamin and mineral supplements are very basic and dont provide much support. Further, they lack good bioavailability attributes. Nusentia® formulas are comprehensive, bioavailable, and a good value. They are formulated specifically for dogs and cats. Our liquid platforms allow us to put more quality nutrients in each serving. The Spectrin formula approach was threefold:
- To provide all the key nutrients for proper metabolic function. Benefits include boosted energy and supporting many organ systems in the body.
- To provide targeted antioxidant support. Antioxidants protect against cell damage and promote healthy aging along with support for allergies.
- Joint Support. We provide amounts that will really serve to support joint health before damage sets in. Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and MSM work in concert to help feed the tissue that surrounds the joints and control inflammation. These effects serve to stop the bone on bone effect that can happen and cause damage over time.
Spectrin™ for Cats provides vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and essential nutrients that support allergies and a vibrant coat. Spectrin for Dogs is a full spectrum vitamin and antioxidant formula for dogs that addresses 3 key areas of support.
SUMMARY
For the pet that appears to suffer from nutritional deficiencies, or from allergies, vitamin supplements can be an absolute necessity. Nusentia offers comprehensive formulas: Spectrin for Dogs™ and Spectrin for Cats™ to be utilized by pet owners as an effective tool in these contexts. And, remember, with any diet change for your pet, always make the change gradually. Start off slow and gradually work up to the full suggested serving to avoid shocking or irritating your pet's digestive and immune system.
*Individual results may vary from animal to animal. It is your responsibility to discuss this information with your vet and make sure it is appropriate for you pet's health. The information contained on this web site is not intended to be a diagnosis, treatment or medical advice that replaces the advice of your own veterinarian. The information is not a substitute for an examination, checkup, or treatment when your pet has a health problem.