6 signs your dog or cat may benefit from a supplement
Have you noticed changes in your pet's wellbeing or behaviour? They may indicate changes in their nutritional needs.
A high-quality complete diet is the foundation of your dog’s or cat’s wellbeing. However, every pet is an individual, and factors such as age, activity level, breed and life stage can influence whether they would benefit from additional nutritional support.
Changes in your pet’s behaviour, coat, skin or daily habits can sometimes indicate changes in nutritional needs. In these cases, a targeted supplement may help complement a balanced diet.
These changes do not necessarily indicate illness, but they can be a good reason to review your pet's diet. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or appear suddenly, always consult your veterinarian.
Here are six common signs that your dog or cat may benefit from a supplement.
1. Moving around is no longer as effortless as before
In dogs, you may notice reluctance to go for walks or jump into the car. In cats, jumping onto high surfaces, playing or using the stairs may become less frequent, particularly with age.
Especially senior, active and/or large-breed dogs may benefit from nutrition that supports joint health. A carefully selected supplement can help maintain normal mobility and healthy joint function.
Signs, for example, that you may notice, that can indicate a need for dietary supplementation:
- your dog no longer wants to jump into the car
- your cat jumps onto favourite spots less often
- stiffness after resting
- reduced interest in play
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2. Your pet is scratching more than usual or their coat looks dull
Healthy skin and a shiny coat are often signs of good overall wellbeing.
If your pet has dry skin, a dull coat or increased scratching, nutritional support may help maintain normal skin and coat health.
You may notice, for example:
- increased scratching
- dry or flaky skin
- excessive shedding
- a dull or brittle coat
Discover products that support skin and coat health for dogs →
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3. Your pet has a sensitive stomach
Occasional digestive upsets are fairly common, but ongoing digestive sensitivity may indicate that your pet could benefit from a supplement that supports digestive health. Sensitive digestion is common in both dogs and cats. In cats, digestive issues may also appear as changes in appetite or changes in eating habits and stool quality.
A healthy digestive system supports nutrient absorption, normal body function, and overall wellbeing.
You may notice, for example:
- loose or inconsistent stools
- sensitive digestion
- occasional digestive upset
- increased flatulence
If digestive problems persist, your pet should be examined by a veterinarian.
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4. Stressful situations are difficult for your pet
Some pets adapt easily to new situations, while others may become stressed by, for example, travelling, moving house, being left alone, fireworks or veterinary visits. In cats, even changes to the daily household routine may cause restlessness.
Calming supplements can help support calm behaviour during challenging situations without causing drowsiness.
You may notice, for example:
- restlessness during travel
- fear of loud noises
- difficulty settling when left alone
- nervous or overly sensitive behaviour
If your pet's behaviour changes suddenly or the problems are severe, consult your veterinarian.
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5. Bad breath or other signs of declining oral health
Changes in oral health often develop gradually and can easily go unnoticed. Good oral health is important for both dogs and cats, as dental disease is common in both species.
Bad breath, plaque and tartar may indicate that your pet's daily dental care routine needs more attention. Alongside tooth brushing and professional veterinary dental care, products that support oral health can complement daily care.
You may notice, for example:
- bad breath
- plaque build-up
- tartar
- reluctance to chew hard treats
Explore supplements that support dental health for dogs →
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6. Changes in drinking or urination
Urinary tract health is important for both dogs and cats. Urinary issues are particularly common in cats, so it's important to monitor changes in drinking, urination and litter box habits.
Increased drinking or urination may sometimes indicate that your pet could benefit from nutritional support. However, these changes can also be signs of illness and should always be taken seriously and consult a veterinarian.
You may notice, for example:
- increased water intake
- more frequent urination
- discomfort while urinating
- a tendency towards urinary tract issues
- a need to support kidney health as your pet ages
If you notice sudden changes in your pet's drinking or urination, contact your veterinarian.
Browse all urinary health products for dogs →
Browse all urinary health products for cats →
How do nutritional needs differ in dogs and cats?
Although many supplements support the same aspects of wellbeing in both dogs and cats, their nutritional requirements are not identical. That's why it's important to choose a supplement specifically formulated for your pet's species and individual needs.
Every pet's nutritional needs are unique
Not every dog or cat needs supplements. A high-quality complete diet should always be the foundation of your pet's wellbeing.
However, factors such as age, breed, activity level and individual needs may influence whether your pet would benefit from targeted nutritional support.
The most important thing is to choose a supplement based on a genuine need – not simply as a precaution.
Summary
Small changes in your pet's daily life can sometimes be a sign that they need a little extra support to maintain their wellbeing.
Supplements do not replace a balanced diet or veterinary care, but the right supplement can help support your dog’s or cat’s wellbeing throughout different life stages.
If you're unsure which supplement is best suited to your pet, ask your veterinarian for advice or explore VetaPet's supplements by wellbeing area.
