Humans aren’t the only ones that can benefit from vitamins and supplements. The majority of dog and cat foods on the market are not as complete as the ad campaigns would have us believe they are. We love our pets like they are members of our families and only want the best for them. Longevity and quality of life are two very important factors.
In an ideal world we would have the time to prepare meals from fresh natural sources not only for ourselves, but also for our pets. But in the hectic day-to-day environment we all live in, its lucky if we stop long enough to prepare meals for ourselves let alone consider fluffy or spot in the equation.
If you are a pet owner, it is likely at some point you have tried to give your dog or cat a pill. This is no easy task. You wrap it cleverly (so you think) disguised in cheese, meat, cream cheese, you name it – only to have the smart little creature manage to eat around and spit out the pill.
You then resort to trying to put it in his or her mouth and force them to swallow. This is tons of fun for all involved parties and also rarely works. You may even accidentally be bitten or scratched. Rather than have to treat your animals because they get sick or have an infection, wouldn’t it be better to be proactive and utilize preventative healthy vitamins and supplements as you do for your self and the rest of your family?
Most of us have never considered the option but vitamins work on both canine and feline immune systems just as well as humans. There are several pet multivitamin products that are readily available in stores. However, each pet’s nutritional requirements differ due to age, underlying illnesses and overall health. Sometimes it is easier to supplement individual vitamins based on your dogs or cats needs. It’s never a bad idea to double check with their vet before administering.
Here is a good general outline of recommended daily allowance, source that vitamin comes from naturally, and why they might need the supplementation.
You can easily mix these nutrients in with the pet’s wet food without them being any the wiser. Additionally brewers yeast along with garlic is great for both dogs and cats and helps with flea protection and gives a shiny healthy coat. As does apple cider vinegar.
Antioxidants are also safe and healthy for pets. Acai, pomegranate, and green tea are all good in moderation (Acai up to 50 mg/day, Pomegranate up to 50mg/day and green tea up to 25mg/day).
Water should be available for your pets to drink at all times whenever they are thirsty.
Is there a difference in vitamins for dogs, cats and humans? The answer is no. A vitamin is a vitamin. The difference is in the dosage given based on weight.
If your little fuzzy friend exhibits tell tale signs that he or she doesn’t feel well by all means a vet visit may be in order, but preventive health maintenance can certainly do its part in keeping your pet happy and healthy for years to come saving you money on Vet bills.
Where to buy:
http://www.hcbl.com/
Article references:
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=1046
http://rdafordogs.blogspot.com/2007/07/vitamins.html
http://petcareeducation.com/dog/dog-health-advice/
http://www.vetinfo.com/dog-multivitamin-guidelines.html#b
