We all want the best for our beloved pets. Whether it’s looking after their physical or emotional health, we want to ensure that our cats and dogs are with us for the long haul. One of the best ways to achieve this is to give them natural and healthy food, supplements, and fur-loving products. Below are some of the most common.
Shampoos
Traditional shampoos for cats and dogs can sometimes contain additives or harsh ingredients such as alcohol which can irritate their skin. Luckily, there are plenty of natural options on the market that will leave your pet’s fur looking (and feeling) great! Be on the lookout for products that are organic, hypoallergenic, and free of synthetic ingredients or additives. Some of the best natural ingredients include coconut oil, aloe vera, and plant extracts.
Essential Oils
Aromatherapy isn’t just for humans. Many pet owners use essential oils to help calm down their pets if they’re anxious or stressed. Some oils can also be used as an insect repellent or for other health issues such as GI upset. The safest oils to use include:
Safe for dogs:
- Cedarwood oil
- Chamomile oil
- Citrus oils
- Eucalyptus oil
- Fennel oil
- Frankincense oil
- Helichrysum oil
- Lavender oil
- Lemongrass oil
- Mint oils (peppermint, spearmint)
- Rose oil
Safe for cats:
- Chamomile oil
- Jasmine oil
- Lavender oil
- Rose oil
CBD Treats
The recent legalization of cannabis products has spawned a new line of treats for cats and dogs. These come in a range of types that can be soft or chewy in texture. While CBD treats aren’t a fix-all remedy for what ails your pet, they can be helpful for reducing pain, inflammation, and anxiety. Many of these treats are also made with other ingredients which provide well-rounded health for your pets. Be on the lookout for treats that are:
- Natural
- Cruelty-free
- Clear about the amount of CBD (e.g., full spectrum, multiple concentrations)
- Third-party tested
- Easy to digest
Pet Food
Pet food is another area that has expanded in terms of healthy, natural offerings. Dehydrated dog food, in particular, often contains all-natural ingredients, and the food is nutrient-dense because of how it’s prepared. However, other types of food, such as canned or kibble, can also contain healthy ingredients. Be sure to check the labels and watch out for:
- All-natural ingredients (includes grains, fruits/vegetables, meats)
- Organic ingredients
- Percentage of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture. Ideally, you’ll want food that’s high in protein and fat.
- It is non-GMO and doesn’t contain fillers, additives, preservatives, hormones, or artificial flavors.
Supplements
Supplements are another natural and healthy way to care for your pet. These come in a range of different types for conditions such as inflammation, joint mobility, heart health, and more. However, bear in mind that not all supplements will be good for your pet. Before you head to the store, it’s best to take your pet to petnestanimalhospital.com, where a vet can provide expert advice based on their health needs.
Generally, though, below are some of the most common supplements that are vet-recommended for cats and dogs:
- Joint supplements: these sometimes contain MSM and glucosamine which are excellent for cartilage and joint health.
- Multi-vitamins: specially formulated for cats and dogs, these vary but sometimes contain ingredients that support healthy skin, joints, digestion, and heart health.
- Arthritis and inflammation supplements: these sometimes contain turmeric and curcumin, which are powerful anti-inflammatories.
- Anti-anxiety supplements: these often contain herbs like chamomile, ashwagandha, and L-Theanine to help calm your pet.