Pet Food Supplements

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Pet food supplements can be added to your dog or cat's food and water. These are intended to supplement your pet's diet with extra nutrients beyond what it can get from its regular food. Some pets need additional nutrition during pregnancy and lactation, or as they grow older or suffer from illnesses.

Coenzyme Q10

The Nature's Pet Website recommends coenzyme Q10 supplements for pets. Coenzyme Q10 is a vital enzyme that supports the heart and immune system. Enzymes feed cells to improve digestion as well as other body functions. This particular enzyme is also used to treat dogs with periodontal disease.

Just like humans, dogs can also develop gum disease. This supplement also helps to reduce inflammation and other dental problems. Some supplements have additional vitamin E added for an even greater effect.

Flax seed oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that help to reduce inflammation as well as improve the condition of your pet's skin and coat. In addition, this supplement also helps with arthritis and itchy skin. Flax seed oil can be added to your dog or cat's food or water. The oil has a light nutty taste that some pets enjoy. Other alternatives to flax seed oil are cod liver and salmon oil.

Milk replacement powder is a nutritional supplement used to feed kittens that have been rejected by or separated from their mothers. Some of the main ingredients in this type of pet food supplement are protein, vitamin A, C, E and D3 along with dried skim milk, biotin and egg yolks, just to name a few.

The Pet Arthritis Resource Center reports that glucosamine is used to help pets with joint pain by reducing inflammation. This supplement is beneficial for the treatment of arthritis and other conditions such as hip dysplasia. Pets are able to be more mobile and have less pain. This is vital as dogs and cats grow older.

Probiotics are healthy flora, also called "good bacteria." The digestive systems of both pets and humans naturally have good and bad bacteria. Good bacteria fight off bad bacteria, which process keeps the body in balance. This also boosts the immune system.

Pets obtain good flora naturally through their diet, but good flora can be eliminated when pets take medications such as antibiotics. Antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria. Replenishing your pet's body with healthy flora helps them regain normal digestion.

Additional vitamins such as vitamins A, C and E can also be added to pet food for nutritional support. Some pet food stores sell chewable multi-vitamins that contain a long list of vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for your dog or cat. Extra supplements, such as digestive enzymes and herbs, are also available to treat digestive problems and illnesses in your pets.