Supplements for cats: Why are they needed?

Supplements for cats are a topic that raises a lot of controversy among animal lovers. Are they really necessary or are they just another way to spend money? It's worth taking a closer look at this topic to understand why supplements can be beneficial to the health and well-being of our furry friends.

What are cat supplements?

Supplements for cats are dietary additions that contain various nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids and other bioactive substances. They can come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, or liquids. Their purpose is to supplement or strengthen your cat's diet, providing it with the necessary nutrients.

Why are cat supplements needed?

There are several reasons why cat supplements may be needed:

1. Your cat's diet may be deficient. Nowadays, many cats are fed dry food or ready-made foods, which are convenient but do not always provide all the necessary nutrients. Low quality ingredients in some foods can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
2. Cat's individual needs. Each cat has its own individual nutritional needs. Some cats may require more of certain nutrients due to age, physical activity, health or other factors. Supplements allow you to adapt your diet to a specific situation.
3. Health support and prevention. Supplements can help prevent a variety of health problems in cats. For example, vitamin C supplements can support the immune system, and omega-3 fatty acids can improve skin and coat health. Supplementation may be especially important for older cats or those with certain medical conditions.
4. Plant-based diet or home-prepared food. If we choose a plant-based diet for a cat or cook its food ourselves, there is a greater risk that the diet will be deficient. Supplementation can help replenish missing nutrients.

What supplements for cats are worth considering?

Of course, not all cats need supplements, and their use should always be consulted with a veterinarian. However, there are a few supplements worth considering, especially if you are at risk of being deficient in specific ingredients:

• Vitamins. Vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin C are essential for the proper functioning of a cat's body. They can be supplemented if your cat does not get enough of these nutrients from its diet.
• Minerals. Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and sodium are important for your cat's healthy bones, muscles and nervous system. Cats fed dry food may need additional calcium.
• Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in marine fish and some oils, can help prevent inflammation, support healthy skin and coat, and benefit the cardiovascular system.
• Glucosamine and chondroitin. These ingredients are helpful in maintaining healthy joints and cartilage in cats, especially in older cats and those with joint diseases.

Summary

Cat supplements can be a valuable addition to your diet if used appropriately and as directed by your veterinarian. It is worth remembering that not all cats need supplements, and the diet should always be tailored to the individual needs of the animal. Therefore, before starting supplementation, it is always worth consulting a veterinarian who will help determine whether and what supplements are needed for your cat. A healthy and balanced diet is the key to a long and happy life for our furry companion.