According to the National Animal Supplement Council, more than 20 percent of the American public actively gives dietary supplements to their pets on a regular basis.

Though much is made of dog supplements in the marketplace, the need for supplementary vitamins, minerals and enzyme products for cats is just as vital to their overall health and longevity.

Four of the most common health ailments faced by felines can be mitigated with dietary supplements. Make sure your staff knows which to recommend under the unique circumstances presented by each of your cat customers.

Most Common Cat Issues:

Digestive
Consumers are sometimes plagued with episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. When medical concerns have been addressed that rule out more serious problems, many products can be recommended to decrease the frequency and severity of repeat problems.

Most digestive products for cats contain plant-based enzymes that claim to aid in the digestion process. The theory behind these products replicates the animal’s drive to instinctively consume plant material when they experience gastric upset. By supplying the same enzyme in pill or liquid form, it is thought to regulate and prevent the severe upset resulting in household accidents.

Coat/Skin
Excess shedding, poor coat quality, itching and other skin problems are also common problems owner’s experience.

Omega fatty acids 3, 6 and 9 are thought to help resolve these issues in cats. The “good fats” contained in these supplements may help strengthen cell membrane throughout the body, but especially within the body’s largest organ – the skin. Improved coat luster, reduced shedding and, consequently, fewer hairballs are often reported when this tasty supplement is added to a well-balanced feline diet.

Infection
Upper reparatory infections both mild and severe often strike otherwise healthy kittens and young cats. General immune system boosting supplements can help keep them at a distance.

Plant-based antioxidant supplements have enjoyed popularity in the human market for their reported ability to strengthen the immune system against cell damage. As it’s thought that cell damage is a general cause of illness and diseases, many feel these supplements can truly improve the health of cats.

Joints/Arthritis
Just as dogs experience joint problems with age, so too do cats fall victim to the degenerative process – particularly when obesity is a factor.

Many supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are now available for cats, as well. These compounds are thought to help the body naturally repair damage to cartilage, which cushions the bones as they glide past each other during body movement. <HOME>