Vitamins and Supplements for Pets
Just like people, vitamins are essential to an animal’s health. Animals need vitamins and minerals for growth and maintenance just like we do. Do you need to add vitamins or supplements to your pet’s diet in order for them to be their healthiest? Most commercial pet foods are formulated to contain all of the nutritional requirements that our pets needs. However, not all pet foods are created equal. Some companies create pet foods for different life stages because a puppy has different nutritional needs than an older dog.
Vitamins and supplements are a great addition for dogs that are not being fed
commercial food. Animals that are being fed homemade meals may not be
getting all of the vitamins and supplements that they need. Some
of the vitamins and minerals that your animal needs include:
• Vitamin A – It is essential for good vision, growth, immune function, and
cell function.
• B Vitamins – There are various B vitamins including Thiamine, riboflavin, B12, and several others. They are essential to energy production, nervous system function, and immune response.
• Vitamin C – It is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation and cognitive
aging. Dogs can make vitamin C in their livers but may require supplementation in certain cases.
• Vitamin D – Vitamin D allows the body to balance minerals for healthy bone
growth.
• Vitamin E – It is an antioxidant that is essential for cell function and fat metabolism. Deficiencies can lead to eye and muscle regeneration.
• Vitamin K – Vitamin K is essential for proper blood clotting.
• Choline – Choline is a necessary component of cell membranes. It supports healthy brain and liver functioning.
However, some supplements can be beneficial especially for an aging pet. The key to buying vitamins and supplements for your animal is to make sure that you are
buying a quality product. Vitamins and supplements are not regulated like prescription medications. You should look for a company that does third-party testing on its products. All of the products carried at Compounding Solutions Pharmacy & Wellness undergo third-party testing. Examples of vitamins and supplements that your aging pet may need include:
• Glucosamine/chondroitin – this combination can help an aging pet’s joints or slow the progression of arthritis.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – They have anti-inflammatory effects for the skin and joints as well as supporting the function of multiple organs.
• Vitamin E and Vitamin C – Both are antioxidants that may protect and repair brain cells. This can help your aging animal stay sharp.
Always check with your veterinarian before adding any vitamins or supplements to your pet’s diet.
Sources:
https://www.petmd.com/dog/centers/nutrition/evr_dg_dog-dogs-really-need-nutritional-supplements
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/vitamins-dogs-need-healthy-lifestyle/