subject: Cat Natural Supplements: Why Are They Important? [print this page] Cat Natural Supplements: Why Are They Important?
For your cat, natural supplements are good dietary additions. Or are they, really?
There have been numerous arguments by veterinarians and pet nutritionists about the necessity of giving your cat natural supplements. One point of view is that proper cat food of high quality already has all the essential vitamins and nutrients your pet needs, so supplements are simply unnecessary. The right kind of cat food is supposed to abide by strict veterinarian-approved formulation so that your cat gets a complete and balanced diet regularly.
Yet there is another point of view supporting giving your cat a natural supplement. It states that some cats have unique dietary needs, and store-bought cat food may not provide all the vitamins and minerals critical for overall health. Also, a feline undergoing therapy or recuperating from surgery or prolonged illness can benefit by giving your cat natural supplements to help her bounce back faster..
This is because out in the wild on their own, your cat will instinctively seek out certain plants and herbs to eat so it will feel better. Chief among them are mistletoe, milk thistle, Echinacea, and Indian ginseng; each one beneficial to your cat's immune system and supporting healthy blood circulation. However, seeking out these herbs might prove to be a tall order as they aren't readily available in pet supply stores or groceries. Your best bet would be to give your cat natural supplements in a prepared form such as capsules or tinctures so they're easier to add to pet food.
There are other instances when you will need to give your cat natural supplements. If you've been feeding your pet table food, a homemade diet, or else a low-quality commercial cat food, talk to your vet about prescribing a nutritional supplement for it. More importantly, your cat will need a thorough check-up to determine its specific dietary deficiencies before your vet can make a nutrition sheet and prescribe other supplements. Breed, eating habits, daily activities, and other factors should be considered too.
If you're looking to give your cat natural supplements, ensure that you're getting the best quality on the market. Look at the ingredients list and make sure that no synthetic additives are listed. Look at testimonials, reviews, and negative comments. Check for product safety. See if the supplement's manufacturer provides a guarantee because that is a sure sign of confidence in their product.
Think about your budget, as well. Some supplements can be very expensive, but there may be more affordable alternatives. Also consider what form the supplement comes in: is it in powder, capsule, tincture? A lot depends on how easy it is to give your cat medication.
