Seeing pets always healthy and cheerful is the dream of people who have pets or pets as friends. Especially if they can live long. Because of this, many people over-treat their pets by giving them vitamins and supplements. Based on the survey, in 2014, pet owners spent about $ 541 million on supplements or nutritious food for their pets. How much do we need to supplement them? Here are four things you need to know before adding vitamins and supplements to your pet’s diet.
1. Your pet’s food may be sufficient.
The average healthy dog or cat doesn’t need any dietary supplements, “said Dr. Jennifer Monroe, a veterinarian at Eagles Landing Animal Hospital in Georgia. Most pet foods have added vitamins and minerals to their diet to provide complete and balanced nutrition for pets. But if you make your own food for pets especially for those with metabolic disorders or deficiency or loss of appetite, multivitamins are very important and very useful,
2. How many doses?
Excess amounts of vitamins, including vitamin D, can cause illness or even death. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for dogs, but consuming high levels can cause health problems. If you consume too much vitamin D, your dog can show symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, excessive salivation, and weight loss. Vitamin D, when consumed at very high levels, can cause serious health problems in dogs including kidney dysfunction. Your vet can provide dosage information and recommend the right formulation for your pet.
3. Supplements are not drugs
Monroe warns that supplements will not replace cheap pet foods, which often contain more fat, less protein. It’s better to invest in a healthy diet than make up for your deficiency with supplements
4. Supplements can soothe sore joints in pets.
Supplements are especially necessary for older dogs who may have arthritis. If your pet is hesitant to go up or down stairs, it may be causing arthritis. With glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can help relieve knee pain.