Cat supplement and vitamin manufacturers say these products should be seen as an extension of a cat’s diet, adding that they can help the pets live longer and healthier lives. If your cat is generally healthy, a good quality cat food is all that’s needed. Giving your cat more vitamins or minerals could cause more harm than good. Supplements may be recommended if your cat is sick. Many supplements are untested and unproven in veterinary medicine. Supplements are meant to correct deficiencies.
Your cat may need a supplement if it has a medical condition that makes it unable to absorb a particular nutrient. Small intestinal disease can cause an inability to absorb the B vitamins folate and cobalamine. In this case, the cat would require injections of those two supplements, as oral supplements won’t be absorbed either. Cats that are pregnant and nursing may develop nutritional deficiencies that require supplementation, particularly if the cat becomes pregnant before age 10-12 months.
Vitamins and additives for cats
A variety of single or multivitamin products are available for cats. Most cat foods contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals that a cat needs. Omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids are given for their ability to keep a cat’s coat shiny and to prevent shedding. They also protect a cat’s immune system, liver, eyes, brain, and joints. Omega-3 fatty acids boost heart health and fights high cholesterol. Cat foods contain a lot more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids. Probiotics are good bacteria that help improve digestive health. They contain microorganisms found in yogurts. These organisms help to control the growth of bad bacteria in the large intestine.
It’s important to remember that you can harm your cat by giving it too many supplements. Cats of different ages and lifestyles have very different dietary needs. Do not use different supplements together, as they may contain the same or similar ingredients. Always talk to your vet before giving your cat any type of supplements or vitamins and additives.
