Feeding Cat Supplements The Right Way

Many holistic and natural pet care professionals believe that supplementing a cat’s diet with particular vitamins, herbs, probiotics and other nutrients can help pets build stronger immune systems.

Premium foods normally contain supplements of vitamins, minerals, probiotics and some herbs. Before supplementing, ask your veterinarian if you should and how much. He or she can determine by your cat’s diet. Because cat foods are already supplemented, you need to carefully read the labels and check with your veterinarian to avoid risking over supplementation.

If feeding a homemade diet, many suggest adding taurine at least. Other additions to a homemade diet can be herbs, enzymes and essential fatty acids.

The best way to give your cat a supplement is by mixing it thoroughly in his food. Trying to give cats pills is an arduous task and not pleasant for either cat or owner.

When using homeopathic formulas, Nina Anderson and Howard Peiper, authors of “Are You Poisoning Your Pets?” Avery, explain that because cats do not like the taste of the alcohol base, owners should purchase those with glycerine extracts. They also explain that stress is placed on a cat when you try the brute force method of shoving a pill down her throat. They recommend a few options: liquids or powders can be added to cream, chicken broth or tuna water. Pills can be crushed to a powder and mixed with food or treats.

However, they say, some cats are more difficult and won’t eat something with a new unidentified substance. Have patience and try other avenues. If all else fails, ask your veterinarian for alternatives.

Martin Goldstein, DVM, author of “The Nature of Animal Healing,” Knopf, recommends not giving cats pills when supplementing. Instead, break open capsules or use liquid supplements and add them to food.

Some experts recommend particular supplements to support cats with particular diseases. For example, cats with arthritis may be benefited by supplements of glucosamine and chondroitin. For hairballs, Anderson and Peiper recommend liquid chlorophyll with aloe vera juice or psyllium, licorice root and hibiscus flowers. They also say that yucca mixed in food can reduce litter box odor.

Some supplement, such as enzymes, can be sprinkled over the top of the food. Some cat supplements come in flavored tablets that cats can eat and others come in the form of pastes or gels that can be applied to a paw so the cat licks it off while cleaning.

Similarly, Anderson and Peiper warn that homeopathic remedies cannot be mixed in foods as they are to be directly absorbed into the mucus membranes. Homeopathic remedies typically come in very small round balls and need to be placed on the back of the cat’s tongue. However, liquid remedies can be added to water, which is easier.

Depending on what supplements you are considering for your cat, consult your veterinarian first to determine the need, the route of delivery and the quantity.

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