Supplements can be a great way to give your pet an extra boost and keep them feeling their best. They can help with everything from keeping joints moving smoothly to supporting a healthy tummy and a strong immune system, and much more!

The best part? Supplements aren’t just for fixing problems—they’re great for preventing them, too! By adding the right supplements to your pet’s routine, you’re setting them up for a longer, happier, and healthier life.

Digestive Support Supplements

Digestive health is a big deal for pets because digestive issues are one of the most common reasons pet parents visit the veterinarian. Supporting their gut health is so important!

We’ll break down the three main types of digestive support: digestive enzymes, probiotics, and prebiotics, and how they work to keep your pet healthy from the inside out.

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes are like tiny superheroes that help break down food efficiently, leading to maximum nutrient absorption.

Amylase – breaks down carbohydrates (not as efficient in pets as humans)

Protease – breaks down proteins

Lipase – breaks down fats

When pets don’t produce enough of these enzymes—due to age, health issues, or medications—it can lead to poor digestion and nutrient loss. Supplementing with enzymes not only helps your pet get the most out of their meals but also gives their pancreas a much-needed break!

Probiotics

Probiotics are the good bacteria that keep your pet’s gut healthy and thriving. They protect against harmful bugs, support digestion, strengthen the immune system, and even help maintain a healthy weight. Probiotics are especially useful for improving stool consistency, reducing digestive upsets, and balancing gut bacteria.

Many pet parents provide probiotics daily to counter medication side effects or simply for better digestion, while others use them after issues like diarrhea or antibiotics to rebuild healthy gut bacteria. They work by out-competing bad bacteria for nutrients and spots on gut cells and by releasing compounds that strengthen the intestinal barrier.

We want to look for species specific probiotics with proven strains like Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria, and Enterococci.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are like fuel for the good bacteria, probiotics, in your pet’s gut. Supporting their growth and keeping digestion on track. These fibers, like oligofructose and inulin, work by nourishing beneficial bacteria as they ferment in the colon.

Oligofructose provides quick support to bacteria in specific areas, while inulin takes its time, helping bacteria throughout the colon. Found in foods like soybeans, oats, beets, and chicory root.

Prebiotics aren’t digested in the small intestine, allowing them to reach the gut bacteria that need them. As they ferment, prebiotics lower the colon’s pH, making it harder for bad bacteria to thrive while encouraging healthy cell growth and improving water absorption—keeping your pet’s digestion smooth and balanced!

Immune Boosting Supplements

A strong immune system keeps them healthy and ready to tackle life’s adventures. Since so much of the immune system is tied to digestion, supporting gut health will also boosts immunity.

Here is a closer look into immune-boosting superstars like anti-inflammatories and antioxidants and how examples such as turmeric and mushrooms can make a difference!

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are like tiny bodyguards for your pet’s cells, protecting them from damage caused by free radicals—unstable molecules that can speed up aging and lead to health issues. Pets need antioxidants to keep their immune systems strong, reduce inflammation, and support overall wellness.

They’re especially helpful for fighting off environmental toxins, improving skin and coat health, and even supporting brain function as pets age. You’ll find antioxidants in natural powerhouses like blueberries, spinach, and turmeric, all of which can give your furry friend an extra health boost!

Anti-inflammatories

Anti-inflammatories are key to calming down chronic inflammation, which can put extra strain on your pet’s immune system. By reducing this strain, they help the immune system function more efficiently, making it better at fighting off infections and keeping your pet healthy.

Anti-inflammatories not only reduce pain and swelling but also boost immune responses, helping your pet stay strong and better able to defend against illness. These natural helpers can be a game-changer for pets with ongoing immune challenges!

Source	Benefits
Turmeric (Curcumin)	·        Reduces inflammation, aiding immune function without overload. ·        Protects cells from free radicals, strengthening immune defense. ·        Slows growth of certain cancer cells, supporting at-risk pets. ·        Balances the immune system, preventing weakness or overactivity.
Chaga Mushrooms	·        Rich in beta-glucans, strengthening the immune system and response to threats. ·        Packed with antioxidants, protecting cells from oxidative stress and boosting immunity. ·        Reduces inflammation, supporting immune health and relieving pain or discomfort. ·        Balances the immune system, enhancing resilience against infections and stress. ·        Supports gut health, strengthening overall immunity.
Turkey Tail Mushrooms	·        Contain polysaccharopeptides (PSPs) that enhance immune function and fight infections. ·        Rich in antioxidants, protecting cells and supporting immune health. ·        Reduces inflammation, promoting immune balance and easing joint and digestive        discomfort. ·        Supports healthy gut bacteria, boosting overall immunity. ·        Research suggests turkey tail may help slow cancer cell growth, offering extra protection for at-risk pets.

Joint Health Supplements

Joint supplements are a big topic in pet health. As pets age, joint discomfort can limit their mobility, which not only affects their happiness but can also lead to other health issues like weight gain and muscle loss.

Now, let’s talk about how glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen work to support joint health and help your pet stay comfortable and active.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a nutraceutical—meaning it’s a natural supplement with health benefits—and it’s often sourced from shellfish. It plays a crucial role in encouraging the growth of cartilage cells and helps reduce inflammation in the joints, making it a fantastic support and prevention option for osteoarthritis.

As pets age or face joint issues, glucosamine becomes essential for making and maintaining healthy joint cartilage, keeping them comfortable and mobile. It’s safe to use and well-tolerated, though high doses may cause mild side effects like increased thirst or an upset stomach.

Chondroitin

Chondroitin is a natural molecule that plays a vital role in joint health and is a major component of cartilage, making up most of the joints, spine, and even tissues like the lungs and ears.  Chondroitin also supports the production of new cartilage and blocks the enzymes that break it down, making it a key player in delaying the onset of osteoarthritis.

By protecting cartilage-producing cells called chondrocytes, it alleviates pain, reduces swelling, and promotes mobility. As a natural pain reliever, it can reduce the need for over-the-counter medications, and side effects are rare. On high doses, some pets may experience mild GI upset like gas or loose stools

Collagen

Collagen is a protein powerhouse that naturally supports your pet’s skin, bone, and joint health—it’s actually the most abundant protein in their body! Found in bones, skin, muscles, tendons, and cartilage, collagen is essential for building tissue and keeping it strong, flexible, and resilient.

As pets age, their natural collagen supply decreases, making supplementation important to maintain mobility and a full range of motion. Collagen helps cultivate connective tissues, reducing stress on joints and supporting healthy cartilage, which can lower the risk of injury.

By improving elasticity and strength, collagen keeps your pet active and feeling their best!

Supplements are a valuable addition to a balanced diet, enhancing your pet’s overall health and well-being. Tailoring supplements to your pet’s specific needs—and using them as preventative care—can support their long-term vitality.

With small, consistent efforts, you can help your furry friend thrive and enjoy a healthier, happier life for years to come! As always if you have any questions about the use of supplements or how to get started, our Healthy Pet Care Specialists at your local Global Pet Foods are always happy to help.