Veterinarians use many different types of medications to help heal illness and maintain health. However, there are many supplements that can also be used to help treat various disease processes. While supplements may not take the place of a more typical “Westernized” medication, they are part of a multimodal approach to health.

Supplements, as discussed here, are generally considered to be “natural” products rather than pharmaceuticals. Feeding a balanced diet that has been evaluated by the Association of American Feed Control Officials will provide complete necessary nutrition for a pet. However, in certain cases, supplementing essential nutrients, or giving supplements that are not considered essential for normal health, can provide therapeutic benefits.

Arthritis is perhaps the most common condition in which supplements are used in pets. Arthritis is characterized by inflammation in the joints, which can lead to discomfort and decreased mobility. A joint that is affected by arthritis may ultimately lose its protective layer of cartilage, causing the bones to rub directly on each other.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used in pets with arthritis, but minimizing their use is ideal so that side effects can also be minimized. Additionally, cats can have a more difficult time metabolizing NSAIDs and their kidneys may be at risk after long-term use.

Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements have long been used in humans with arthritis, and are one of the more common supplements in pets with arthritis. These two compounds, often combined into one pill, provide building blocks for cartilage in an attempt to help cartilage stay healthy where it is being threatened. Clinical studies have been equivocal as to the benefit of glucosamine and chondroitin — some studies show increased comfort whereas others do not. However, the supplement is usually well tolerated, and many pet owners respond that their pet seems more comfortable while taking it.

Another common supplement for arthritis is an injectable glycosaminoglycan product. The concept behind GAG therapy is similar to the concept of glucosamine and chondroitin — providing ingredients for healthy cartilage. A series of injections can be administered initially at a frequent regimen and then tapering to a maintenance protocol.

An essential fatty acid supplement, such as a fish oil product, provides omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in appropriate ratios so as to provide anti-inflammatory benefits to arthritic joints. A diet that is fortified with EFAs or a liquid or capsular form of EFA can be given to pets to decrease inflammation; this can provide more comfortable mobility and possibly decrease the need for NSAIDs in certain patients.

Arthritis is not by any means the only condition that can benefit from the use of supplements. A case in point is that EFA supplements, while beneficial for pets with arthritis, are also used in a variety of other disease conditions to maintain health. Patients with kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and allergies can all benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of EFAs. Other types of supplements can help pets with liver disease, cats with viral respiratory infections, pets with bladder inflammation, and much more.

It is important to note that many supplements for pets are not evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration for efficacy and safety. Some supplements may even do more harm than good. However, proper use of appropriate supplements in concert with pharmaceuticals is a great way to address disease control. Your veterinarian can help you determine if supplements can be of benefit for your pet.

— Keith Rode is a veterinarian at Woodland Veterinary Hospital and a graduate of UC Davis. For more information, call (530) 666-2461.

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