Choosing the right pet and horse supplements: a comprehensive guide

4th March 2025

Beryl Shuttleworth

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Choosing the right supplements for your furry friends and four-legged friends

Choosing the right supplements for our furry friends and four-legged friends is crucial for their overall health and happiness. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming—almost like navigating a maze! I remember when I first started researching supplements for my own pets; I was bombarded with claims and jargon that left me more confused than informed. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to make it easier for you to choose the right, safe, and effective supplements. Let’s dive in!

Understanding pet and horse supplements

So, what exactly are we talking about when we refer to supplements? Simply put, these are products designed to complement your animal’s diet by providing additional nutrients or health benefits that might be missing.

For pets, common types of supplements include:

Vitamins and minerals: Essential nutrients that may be lacking in their diet. (Check out our Everypet Formula here.)
Joint support supplements: Ingredients like glucosamine and msm to promote healthy joints. Our joint product is called Joint Formula or Joint Care chews.
Digestive aids: Probiotics and prebiotics to support gut health.
Coat and skin health supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Calming supplements: Natural herbs like chamomile to help reduce anxiety. Chamomile is an ingredient of our Calming chews and Serenity Formula.

For horses, you’ll find:

Joint supplements: Often containing glucosamine and MSM to keep joints mobile. Also Devil’s Claw and Fenugreek in our product, Rejuven mix.
Digestive aids: Similar focus on probiotics and prebiotics to support gastrointestinal health. Try this one, for example.
Hoof supplements: Nutrients like biotin to nurture strong, healthy hooves. Farriers’ mix is a good option.
Electrolytes: Important for replenishing minerals lost during sweat, especially in performance horses.
Vitamin E supplements: Beneficial for muscle function and neurological health.

Supplementation can be a game-changer, addressing nutritional gaps, specific health conditions, and enhancing overall wellness and performance. Just remember, it’s all about finding the right balance!

Why it matters to choose high-quality supplements

Sometimes, it feels like supplements are a wild west of options out there—high-quality products can truly make a difference, while poor-quality or unsuitable ones can do more harm than good. Think of it this way: high-quality supplements can bridge the gap between “just surviving” and “thriving”.

The right supplements can help fill nutritional gaps, manage specific health concerns like joint pain or digestive issues, and enhance the performance of our four-legged friends during competitions. They can significantly contribute to a longer, healthier life. That’s why I can’t stress enough how important it is to select only the best for your companions, always under the guidance of a veterinary professional.

Key factors to consider when buying pet supplements

When you’re on the hunt for the right supplements for your furry friends, here’s what to look out for:

Quality and safety standards: Always opt for products that comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and have a valid registration number (V number).
Ingredients and their benefits: Familiarise yourself with the active ingredients and how they meet your pet’s needs. Steer clear of any products with artificial fillers or preservatives.
Veterinarian recommendations: Your vet is your best ally! They can offer tailored advice and identify any potential interactions with medications or health issues.
Specific health needs: Think about your pet’s age, breed, size, and overall health. Senior pets might require more joint support, for instance.
Dosage and administration methods: Stick to the recommended dosages to prevent over-supplementation and opt for forms that are easy to give—think chews, powders or liquids.

Steps to choose the right pet supplements

Here’s a step-by-step approach to selecting the best supplements for your furry friends:

Assess specific needs: Pay attention to signs of deficiencies, like a dull coat or lack of energy.
Consult your veterinarian: They’ll provide professional insights and personalised recommendations.
Research trustworthy brands: Look for brands that have positive reviews and proven experience.
Read product labels: Make sure to check the active ingredients and their concentrations.
Seek certifications: This ensures the product has undergone rigorous quality checks.
Start slow: Introduce one supplement at a time, so you can monitor its effects.
Keep track of your pet’s response: Jot down any changes in behaviour or health, and share these notes with your vet.

Essential tips for buying pet supplements

When shopping for the right supplements, always:

Verify the company’s history and ethical practices.
Distinguish between beneficial ingredients and fillers.
Check for allergens specific to your pet.
Compare prices, but remember: quality trumps cost.

Considerations for horse supplements

Choosing supplements for horses requires a more tailored approach. Here are some critical factors to keep in mind:

Quality and safety standards: Ensure products comply with equine regulations and a valid registration number.
Essential ingredients for equine health: Look for glucosamine and msm for joint health, biotin for hooves, and electrolytes for hydration in active horses.
Veterinarian recommendations: Equine vets can provide specific dosing information and suitability guidance.
Performance and health goals: Different horses have varied supplement needs based on their work, health, and lifestyle.
Dosage and feeding guidelines: Accurate measurement is key—always ensure the supplement is mixed carefully with their feed.

Steps to choose horse supplements

Selecting the right features for your four-legged friends can be straightforward by following these steps:

Evaluate dietary needs: Look closely at the quality of forage and existing feed.
Consider workload, age, and specific health conditions: For instance, performance horses may need joint support, while senior horses could benefit from digestive aids.
Consult an equine nutritionist or veterinarian: Their expertise will ensure your equine companion gets a balanced diet.
Choose reputable manufacturers: Opt for companies that invest in scientific research supporting their products.
Monitor your horse’s response: Regular checks on weight and behaviour will help you adjust dosages effectively.

Personalised supplement choices for furry friends

To make the best supplement choices for your pets, keep these tips in mind:

Avoid over-supplementation, as it can lead to toxicity.
Tailor supplements according to life stage and activity levels.
Ensure any supplements meet a real need, as identified by your vet.
Customise them based on factors like breed predispositions.
Regular check-ups can help in monitoring and adjusting as needed.

Tailored supplement choices for horses

When it comes to horses, consider these essentials:

Account for environmental elements, like local soil mineral deficiencies.
Differentiate between the specific needs of performance and leisure horses.
Regular monitoring and adjustment are crucial.
Remember to be patient—good things take time, and benefits may not be immediate.

Be proactive about your companions’ health

Choosing the right supplements for our pets and horses is a journey that requires careful consideration, consultation with veterinary professionals, and diligent research. I encourage you to take that first step towards better health by discussing supplementation with your vet. Remember, every animal is unique, and personal care is the key to ensuring their well-being and vitality.

Helpful resources for further information

For more insight, check out these useful sources:

Frequently asked questions

What benefits do supplements provide for my pet or horse?
They can address specific nutritional deficiencies and support overall well-being and health.
How do I know if my pet needs supplements?
Consult your veterinarian, who can evaluate your pet’s dietary habits and health status.
Is it safe to give multiple supplements at once?
It’s best to introduce supplements gradually and under veterinary guidance.
What should I check on supplement labels?
Active ingredients, dosages, expiration dates, and quality certifications are vital.
Are natural supplements better than synthetic ones?
Both can be effective; prioritise quality and efficacy instead of focusing purely on the source.
How long will it take to see results from supplements?
Timeline varies; some changes may occur in weeks, while others take months.
Can supplements replace a balanced diet?
No, they should complement a balanced diet, not replace it.
Where can I buy quality supplements?
Look for reputable veterinary clinics, trustworthy pet stores, or established online retailers.