Recently, a number of people have come into my store asking for information on supplements for their pets. Indeed, nutrition is an issue that comes up frequently among my customers.
I tell them that all commercial pet foods must meet Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards and recommendations for a complete and balanced diet. However, even when pet food companies comply with the standards, your individual pet may not get what he needs in terms of nutrition.
Just like people, each pet has needs that may differ from other pets in his age and breed category. It is easy to be fooled by companies that sell you a pet diet that makes claims to be complete and balanced. Does that mean the food is complete and balanced for every pet? If we operate with the understanding that pets are individuals, we know that their nutritional needs differ based on physiological makeup, genetics, environment, age and state of health. Even if you’re providing a high-quality diet, your pet may be missing something important for his wellbeing.
Allergies, joint pain and inflammation, dry skin and occasional loose stool and diarrhea are all common ailments that can be alleviated with proper diet and supplements. It’s always best to be in consultation with a veterinarian that has an understanding of how nutrition and supplements can assist in alleviating these ailments. Good veterinarians know that not every condition warrants an expensive medication, steroid or antibiotic.
Supplemental Help
Supplements that are widely used with great effectiveness include glucosamine and chondroitin, fish oil and probiotics.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are anti-inflammatory supplements used in cases of joint swelling and pain in dogs and cats. They work together to improve mobility and flexibility and alleviate pain. Glucosamine assists the body in building cartilage, and chondroitin helps the body maintain flexibility and fluid in the joints. Other anti-inflammatory supplements include methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), green-lipped mussels, bromelain and curcumin. Several products on the market combine two or more of these ingredients.
For improving the skin and coat, fish oil is probably the most important supplement you can add to your pet’s diet. If you have a pet with itchy, flaky, dry skin, trying a course of fish oil may be the key to relief. EPA and DHA, the omega-3 fatty acids present in fish oil, can also reduce inflammation, ease allergies, regulate the immune system, improve cognitive function and support the cardiovascular system. When beginning to administer fish oil, be careful not to give too much immediately. Ease into the full dose as you would when changing pet foods.
Probiotics are one of the simplest and most effective remedies for poor digestion. Probiotics are comprised of different kinds of friendly bacteria. Bacteria is most often thought of as harmful, but certain bacteria are helpful in keeping us and our pets healthy. Lactobacillus acidophilus, bifidobacterium bifidus and lactobacillus bulgaricus are just a few of the helpful microorganisms that live in a dog or cat’s intestinal tract. There, they play an important role in defending the body against illness. Probiotics can assist with alleviating flatulence, constipation, diarrhea, skin problems and irritable bowel syndrome. For best results, select a high-quality probiotic with live microorganisms.
These common supplements can make a world of difference in the life of your pet, making them more comfortable and energetic. They do not take the place of proper veterinary care, so be sure to discuss any of your pet’s major health changes with your vet.
Kristen Zellner is the owner of Abrams & Weakley General Store for Animals, 3963 N. 6th St., Harrisburg. To learn more, visit www.abramsandweakley.com or call 717-232-3963.
