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Pet supplements: what our vet wants owners to know
Pets can encounter various health conditions in their lifetime and, just like the human equivalents, pet nutraceuticals or supplements can be a great way to support their health and help manage some symptoms.
Our expert advises that not all pet supplements are created equally and it’s best to speak to your vet before administering any supplements at home.
Rachel Eaton, Head of Research and Development here at VetPlus, says: 
Nutraceuticals, or supplements as they are well known, can be useful in supporting pets with various health conditions, such as arthritis and digestive issues. But there are lots of options out there and knowing what’s right for your pet can feel overwhelming for owners who just want the best for their companion. 
It’s important to be aware that not all pet supplements are created equally, and some may not be as good for pets as they may seem. There are some key things pet owners can look out for, but ultimately, it’s always best to speak to your vet who will advise on the right treatment for your four-legged friend.
Rachel has shared four things pet owners should watch out for when researching pet supplements:
1. Packaging that claims to do it all
As with many things, it’s really what’s inside that counts when it comes to pet supplements.
Nutraceuticals with a firm scientific backing will have undergone extensive research and testing to make sure they are safe and effective for pets.
You should look for products with strong results in gold-standard studies and positive testimonies from other pet owners. And remember, if you find a product at a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Your vet will be able to support you in separating the supplements that claim to do it all from those that actually deliver real results.
2. The ingredients list
Before settling on a supplement for your pet, it’s important to have a good understanding of its ingredients and their quality.
It’s the quality of ingredients included which often separates the average supplement from the best options. VetPlus’ SYNOQUIN®, for example, contains Dexahan®, a unique Krill source of Omega-3 essential fatty acids, which can help to support your pets joint function and mobility.
Vets, who have undergone extensive training, are best placed to advise on this and will only recommend products that are safe and effective.
3. Nutraceuticals that don’t meet safety standards
Nutraceutical ingredients for pets must be approved by the Food Standard Agency to make sure they’re safe and do their job properly.
A full list of approved products can be accessed on the FSA website and your vet will also have further information on this.
4. Products from less reputable companies
As with any other product, trustworthy companies have built up their reputation based on the performance and quality of their nutraceuticals.
Pay attention to how long the firm has been operating, as well as the evidence they provide to claim their products work. And if your vet hasn’t heard of them, it’s likely best to avoid!
VetPlus has been leading the development of nutraceuticals within the UK veterinary profession for over 25 years, with over 3,000 veterinary practices across the country recommending its products.
For more information and a full breakdown of the nutraceuticals we offer, please visit www.vetplus.co.uk