We love our pets! Diet and nutrition is the starting point when it comes to providing our dogs and cats their best life. Second, I believe there is a distinct difference between nutrition and supplementation. Nutrition is coming from our food choices. Supplementation is filling a specific need with a specific product. Follow the recommendations below for optimal pet nutrition and overall health.
Nutrition
I recommend that you always start with high-quality food, a raw diet or a combination before starting on supplementation for your pets. A balanced diet is the key to making sure they eat all the protein, carbohydrates, and fats needed to be at their healthiest.
Once you have the big stuff out of the way we can then look at the top 3 supplements we recommend and a couple of bonuses in specific situations.
Supplementation
Our top supplements for dogs and cats are
- Fish oil
- CBD
Fish Oil
Should pets consume fish oil?
Yes! Dogs, cats, and humans all benefit from these essential fats. Fish oil contains a variety of amazing benefits. We typically use fish oil supplements for inflammation, pain, and general wellness. The essential fat compounds cannot be made in our bodies and must be consumed from outside sources like fish, plants, and algae. Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which have anti-inflammatory properties and cardiovascular benefits.
Omega-3 fatty acids reduce proinflammatory molecules and improve the production of anti-inflammatory molecules. They also control the activity of enzymes that contribute to inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to play a role in regulating the activity of specific immune cells, such as T-cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells. It is believed that by modulating the activity of these cells, omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce inflammation and improve overall immune function.
What amount of fish oil is safe for pets?
Over the years of personally supplementing with fish oils and recommending them for our clients we have learned that it is critical to get dosage right. Fish oil has bodyweight requirements to be ideally effective, a factor that varies from pet to pet. So, it is impossible to provide accurate advice about dosages for your pet in a blog post. It is best to evaluate and determine this information in person with your dog or cat. Fish oil also varies greatly in quality and concentration. For that reason, we recommended only supplements that have independent lab testing, GMP certification, and micro distillation to purify. Fish oil is an impactful supplement when it comes to pet nutrition.
CBD Oil
How does CBD reduce inflammation in pets?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant (in most cases HEMP) that is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. It is a part of the plant that does not have any psychoactive effects. It works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is a network of receptors and chemicals that play a role in regulating various bodily functions, including inflammation.
One way that CBD may reduce inflammation is by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines and prostaglandins. It may also inhibit the activity of certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation and may activate receptors in the body that help to suppress inflammation.
It’s worth noting that the research on the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD is still in its early stages, and more research is needed to fully understand how it works and how it can be used to effectively treat inflammatory conditions.
CBD for anxious pets
CBD also has been reported to have anti-anxiety benefits. Pets that struggle with separation anxiety, experience nervousness while in the car, or other seemingly normal situations that cause anxiousness could benefit from CBD oil. CBD can have nearly an immediate effect, but the right dose is important. Dogs and cats require limited doses to experience the positive effects of CBD oil. It is best to consult with a professional in regard to CBD dosage.
Your pets count on you for their health, good nutrition, and the best of care. Pet nutrition is a large part of owning a dog or cat; you should take that responsibility very seriously and make sure your pets have the best possible diet. If you are concerned about injuries, inflammation, or anxiety you need to think about supplementing your furbaby’s diet with additional products.