Our pets bring so much joy into our lives and it’s not a stretch to say that most people consider them family members. Unfortunately, these family members have a shorter lifespan than the rest of us, so we want to give them as much loving and care as possible during their lifetime.
It’s a tough pill to swallow when we first notice our pets slowing down as they begin to age. Luckily there are pills that aren’t hard to swallow, in the way of a joint supplement for dogs and cats, that we can give our pets to give them a better quality of life. Whether it’s trouble standing up, trouble walking, or just not being as spry as they used to be, working joint supplements into their diets can greatly enhance senior dog health, senior cat health, as well as other pets.
Joint Supplements for Dogs and Cats
Just as many humans benefit from supplements as they start to age, so too can dogs and cats. As supplements have become mainstream for people in recent years, it has also started to thrive in the pet industry as science and medicine has improved.
The difference in your pet’s health can be striking once you start incorporating joint supplements into their routine. The right supplement can enhance flexibility, promote healthy joints, strengthen cartilage, reduce inflammation, and more. Although choosing to include supplements in your pet’s diet can be beneficial at any age, it’s especially important for senior pet health.
When Should You Give Your Pet Supplements?
The answer to this question will be different for everyone. Some breeds of dogs and cats begin to develop joint problems a lot sooner than others and will require this kind of care much earlier than others. Some of the dog breeds with notorious joint problems and arthritis include Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Rottweilers, French Bulldogs, German Shepherds, and more.
Be sure to look into your breed’s health history so you’ll know what to look for when the time comes. As mentioned before, you can give your pets supplements before they reach their elder years, but as they get older, you’ll begin to notice signs that it could be time to start a regular regimen. Some signs include:
- Swollen joints
- Trouble getting up from bed
- Trouble walking
- Noticeable limp
- Cracking noises from the hips
- Sitting down
- General lethargy
If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your vet about what kind of supplement could be right for you.
What Kind of Supplements Are There?
Some of the most common include glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, PurforMSM, Dasuquin with MSM, and more recently, CBD. There is a growing list of supplements available these days and after consulting with a veterinarian you should have a few options that will be a match for your pet.
The Sooner the Better
Don’t hesitate when it comes to your furry friend’s health. As soon as you start noticing any of the signs and symptoms mentioned above, talk to a professional about how joint supplements for dogs and cats can work for you. Contact Pawtology today for a consultation on your senior pet.