Pet health is having a moment. Many people became pet owners during the pandemic, and they’re paying close attention to their pet’s diet, activity level and emotional wellness. So it makes sense that the use of pet supplements is on the rise. According to Grand View Research, the global market for pet supplements was valued at $1.9 billion in 2021. And pet parents are turning to “natural” products to help keep their pets healthy and thriving.
“Natural products are trending among veterinary clients, reflecting that same growing trend in society,” says Jared Pitt, DVM. He’s a veterinarian and partner doctor at Heart + Paw in Marlton, New Jersey. Pet parents are more likely to select supplements marketed as “natural” as opposed to ones made in a lab, Dr. Pitt says.
“People think that ‘natural’ and ‘healthy’ go hand in hand, though that may not always be the case,” he says.
If you plan to give your pets supplements, you should talk to your vet.
And if you want to save money on your pet’s medication, use the Optum Perks coupon search tool. Just show your coupon at your pet’s pharmacy — it’s that simple to save up to 80% on prescriptions.
The best types of natural pet products
Fish oil supplements
Fish oil can benefit your pet inside and out. It promotes a silky coat, can help relieve allergies and reduces itchy, flaky skin, according to the American Kennel Club. Fish oil also supports heart and joint health.
“Fish oil is derived from marine and freshwater fish and contains the proper balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids,” Dr. Pitt says. “These nutrients have shown to be beneficial with regard to anti-inflammatory properties for skin, joints and kidneys.”
He recommends Omega Benefits® from Veterinarian Recommended Solutions.
If your pet isn’t good about taking pills, try these 6 tips to get your dog or cat to take their medications.
Prebiotics or probiotics
If you take a prebiotic or probiotic, you know it can help improve your gut health. These supplements can offer the same benefit to your pet.
“At my practice, I recommend them as part of a preventive health plan for my patients,” Dr. Pitt says. “They promote a healthy gut biome, which in turn promotes overall health for the animal.”
He recommends Entero TruBenefits® from Veterinarian Recommended Solutions and FortiFlora® SA from Purina.
Joint supplements
Keeping your pet’s joints healthy with a supplement is a great way to help them stay mobile as they grow older.
“These contain ingredients derived from mussels that promote cartilage and joint health,” Dr. Pitt says. “It may be a healthier alternative to relying solely on NSAIDs [non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs].” NSAIDs such as aspirin can have dangerous long-term effects on pets, he says.
Dr. Pitt recommends Osteo TruBenefits® from Veterinarian Recommended Solutions.
Pet products that could do more harm than good
Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is everywhere these days, including in pet products. It’s touted as a natural solution to help pets in pain. But you should use caution if you’re considering giving it to your pet.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), as with CBD, comes from the marijuana plant. THC is the psychoactive ingredient that produces a high, according to the Mayo Clinic. CBD doesn’t contain this chemical.
But, says Dr. Pitt, “many CBD chews and treats in pet stores are allowed to put ‘THC-free’ on their label, even if they contain up to 0.3% THC.”
Veterinarians are concerned about the toxicity of THC to pets, Dr. Pitt says.
“Be sure that the manufacturer has substantial testing for all traces of THC before purchasing,” he says.
Recommended reading: How to tell if your cat is sick.
