Check out how to choose the right supplements for your dog or cat with these essential do’s and don’ts.
As dog and cat parents, we’re responsible for making informed decisions about the supplements we purchase for our furry friends. Our animal companions can’t communicate their needs directly. Therefore, it’s up to us to make sure we choose the right products.
It’s easy to be swayed by flashy advertisements with inflammatory statements or glowing 5-star reviews. But good marketing does not necessarily mean high quality. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts on how to choose supplements for dogs and cats.
DO’S
Do follow supplement label instructions and your veterinarian’s advice
Adhere to the instructions on the product label, along with your veterinarian’s recommendations. Otherwise, you might not administer the supplement correctly, reducing its effectiveness.
Natural supplements often have lower absorption rates compared to synthetic drugs. They may also require more frequent dosing to achieve desired effects. However, the benefit of natural supplements is that they generally have fewer and less severe side effects than synthetic drugs.
Do check for COAs and supplement shelf life/stability
Prioritize a Certificate of Analysis (COA) when selecting dog or cat supplements. A third-party lab issues a COA that verifies the product’s contents. This ensures it contains the stated ingredients and is free from contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides.
Look for supplements with third-party certifications, such as the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). NASC holds its members to high standards.
Do look for verified third-party reviews on supplements
Verified third-party reviews provide an unbiased overview of customer experiences. While reviews can be subjective, they offer valuable insights into a product’s effectiveness and potential issues.
Be mindful of extreme reviews, both positive and negative, and consider the context. For instance, if a dog parent didn’t follow the product’s instructions correctly, their negative review might not accurately reflect its quality.
Do check for drug interactions and supplement side effects
Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements to your dog or cat’s diet. Provide your vet with a complete list of all products and medications your animal is currently taking to check for potential drug interactions and side effects. Your veterinarian will guide you and help you make informed decisions.
Do verify if the supplement company works with a veterinarian
Companies that have a veterinarian on staff, sell products formulated by a vet, or are owned by a vet are often more trustworthy because they prioritize the health and well-being of animals.
These companies typically adhere to high standards and have a deep understanding of dog and cat health. Choosing products from these businesses can increase the likelihood of getting a quality supplement.
DON’TS
Don’t fall for “too-good-to-be-true” marketing or a million five-star reviews
You can’t guarantee quality based on a product’s appearance or marketing appeal. Companies with large marketing budgets can create attractive advertisements and promotions, but this doesn’t mean their products are superior.
Products with a seemingly endless number of positive reviews may sway you. However, influencers often promote them for financial gain. They may not have the expertise or genuine experience with the products they promote.
Instead, rely on trusted sources such as veterinarians, scientific research, and reputable animal care sites and publications.
Don’t buy into the big company fallacy
A well-known brand name doesn’t always mean high quality products. Some large companies may cut corners in their manufacturing processes, even with market dominance. Smaller, lesser-known companies may offer superior products due to their focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
Evaluate products based on their merits, not the size of the company. Also watch out if your preferred smaller company has been purchased by a larger one. Larger companies sometimes change formulas due to commitments to the bottom line. Always double-check that everything has stayed the same.
Don’t purchase a supplement that makes medical claims
Be wary of supplements that make medical claims, such as “treats arthritis” or “eliminates anxiety”. These claims suggest the product treats or prevents medical conditions, which requires FDA approval.
Don’t expect immediate results from supplements
Supplements often require time to show noticeable effects. Track your dog or cat’s performance and progress to accurately gauge a supplement’s efficacy. Keeping a journal or using tracking surveys will help you monitor changes and improvements.
By learning how to choose supplements for dogs and cats, you can ensure you’re selecting high quality products that genuinely benefit your animal’s health.
Always prioritize your dog or cat’s well-being and consult with professionals to make the best choices. Remember, your diligence can make a significant difference in his quality of life.
5 additional considerations when choosing dog and cat supplements
1. Understand the science behind supplements
Educate yourself about the science and research supporting the supplements you’re considering for your dog or cat. Reliable companies will often provide detailed information about their ingredients, benefits, and the scientific studies backing their efficacy.
This knowledge can help you make informed choices and avoid products with exaggerated claims.
2. Evaluate the manufacturing process
Investigate how the supplements are made. Manufacturers produce high quality supplements in facilities that follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This ensures strict quality control standards, reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring consistent quality.
3. Regularly monitor your dog or cat’s health while on supplements
Regular health check-ups with your veterinarian help monitor your dog or cat’s overall well-being. Discuss any changes in health or behavior that occur after starting a new supplement. This can help catch potential issues early and adjust the supplement regimen as needed.
4. Stay informed about supplement recalls and safety alerts
Keep yourself updated on recalls or safety alerts related to animal supplements. Regulatory bodies and reputable animal health websites often provide information about products that have been recalled due to safety concerns. Staying informed helps you avoid products that could potentially harm your dog or cat.
5. Engage with dog or cat care communities about supplements
Participate in animal care forums and communities to share experiences and learn from other dog or cat parents. These platforms offer valuable insights and recommendations from real-world experiences.
Engaging with a community of animal parents also helps offer support and advice when you have questions or concerns about supplements.
The post How to choose supplements for dogs and cats – do’s and don’ts appeared first on Animal Wellness Magazine.
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