The Best Supplements and Vitamins for Cat Health

Let’s see: You pop biotin supplements to grow out your hair, chew collagen gummies to stave off wrinkles, and stir adaptogens into your coffee for mental clarity. Isn’t your cat entitled to whatever superfood du jour promises them eternal youth, too?

Before you slip a supplement into your cat’s kibble, confirm with your vet that your cat doesn’t have any health concerns to consider first or that there’s potential for a medication interaction.

“Humans take vitamin supplements because most of us have terrible diets,” Dr. Angela Rollins says. “Even though it might be beneficial for us, most commercial cat foods are actually high-nutrient diets that don’t need extra vitamins or supplements. Calcium and phosphorous should also be in correct proportion to each other so giving your cat a vitamin supplement with extra phosphorous could throw that off balance. You may end up overdoing certain nutrients and introduce the potential for toxicity.”

That said, Rollins adds: “Most pet vitamins tend not to be very potent because manufacturers know they are being given in addition to an already complete and balanced diet.” Supplements show the most promise (and proven results) when cats have health conditions or vitamin deficiencies — from Omega-3 fatty acids’ heart-health benefits to antioxidants’ ability to fight chronic inflammation. You should still choose wisely: Read labels to ensure quality and look for brands that ideally have clinical studies backing their products. Below, several cat vitamins and supplements for your consideration.

Btw, our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission. (We’ve got a lot of toys to buy over here, you know?)

Should I give my cat supplements?

Supplements and vitamins can be beneficial to your cat’s health. Common supplements include B12, D3, and Omega-3. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian before giving your cat any supplements or vitamins, so they can make sure that the supplements are safe and appropriate for your cat’s individual needs.

What are some common supplements and vitamins for cats?

Just like humans, cats need supplements for a variety of health reasons, from skin issues to stomach problems. Here are some of the most common types of supplements and vitamins for cats:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in certain fish oils and provides anti-inflammatory properties.

• Probiotics: These are live microbes that help improve gut health.

• Taurine: This amino acid helps support your cat’s heart health.

• B12: This essential vitamin is used to prevent gastrointestinal disease.

• Antioxidants: These may include vitamins C and E, and they protect the body against damage from free radicals.

The best Supplements and vitamins for cats

Best omega-3 supplement for cats

Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Supplement

$14

You won’t need to twist your cat’s arm to take an omega-3 (aka fish oil) supplement. Which is great because omegas are proven to help with myriad issues from joint stiffness to skin allergies to heart disease in pets and their people. Nordic Naturals is a tried-and-true brand.

$14 at Amazon

Best skin supplement for cats

NaturVet Kelp Help

$19

Sprinkling this seaweed powder on your cat’s food could help reduce the itchiness and swelling associated with skin allergies. The high fiber supplement, like this one from NaturVet Kelp Help, might also help improve digestive health.

$19 at Amazon

Best multivitamin for cats

VetriScience NuCat Multivitamin

$9

Low vitamin D levels have been linked to several diseases, including certain cancers, congestive heart failure, and acute pancreatitis. Unlike humans, cats don’t absorb vitamin D through their skin and depend on their diet (or supplements like this multivitamin chewable from Vetriscience) to provide adequate levels.

$9 at Amazon

Best taurine supplement for cats

Tomlyn Felovite II Nutritional Gel

$17

Cats that are fed vegan diets or other non-commercial pet foods might be lacking in essential nutrients such as taurine, an amino acid found in animal-based proteins. A lickable, fish-flavored supplement like this gel by Tomlyn could help prevent deficiencies.

$17 at Amazon

Best B12 supplement for cats

Rx Vitamins B12

$28

B12 is often prescribed for cats suffering from irritable bowel syndrome and pancreatitis as deficiencies in this essential vitamin have been linked to gastrointestinal disease. Rx Vitamins for Pets’ liver-flavored liquid solution can easily be administered by dropper into your cat’s kibble.

$28 at Amazon

Best antioxidant supplement for cats

Vetoquinol Select Antioxidant Tablets

$13

You’ve probably heard of the benefits of antioxidants in skincare (protection of free radicals and such). Antioxidant supplements — especially those containing vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene — can fight the chronic inflammation associated with allergic dermatitis and arthritis, and have also been proven to be beneficial for cats in renal failure. There are numerous individual antioxidant supplements but you’ll get more bang for your buck with a combo like Vetoquinol Select Antioxodant Tablets.

$13 at Chewy

Tips for administering supplements to your cat

It can be nerve-wracking to give your cat a pill. But there are some tricks of the trade that can make things much easier. Try these tips to give supplements to your cat:

1. Hide the pill in food: Ideally, this should be wet cat food or tuna. Try to mold the food around the pill.

2. Observe your cat: Watch your cat eat to make sure they take the pill. If you see them spit it out, you'll have to give them the pill by hand.

3. Administer the pill by hand: First, grease the pill with some cat food gravy so it will be easier for your cat to swallow. Next, hold the pill in one hand and use your other hand to hold your cat's mouth open. Tilt their head back, and drop the pill onto their tongue as far back as you can. Finally, close your cat's mouth and gently massage their nose or throat to stimulate swallowing.

Why it’s important to consult with a veterinarian before introducing supplements to your cat’s diet

Most commercial cat foods are already packed with nutrients — adding something into the mix (that your vet hasn’t approved) could throw your cat’s diet out of whack. In fact, you could accidentally give your cat too much of a certain nutrient, which could be toxic. To play it safe, always check with your vet before giving your cat supplements.

FAQs (People Also Ask)

1) Do older cats need supplements?

It depends on your cat. If they have certain health issues (like joint problems), they may benefit from a supplement. Ask your vet.

2) How can I ensure my cat’s supplements or vitamins are of good quality and safe?

To ensure your cat’s supplements are good quality and safe, read the labels to check the ingredients and look for brands that have clinical studies supporting their products. 

3) What is the best way to determine the appropriate dosage of supplements for my cat?

It depends on your cat and the supplement. Some companies provide dosing guidelines based on your cat's weight but it's best to check with your vet before giving your cat a new supplement.

4) Are there risks involved with giving my cat supplements or vitamins?

Yes, supplements can be harmful if your cat doesn’t need them or you give them the wrong dosage. Always talk to your vet before giving your cat supplements.

Resources:

• Vitamin-Mineral Supplements Do Not Guarantee the Minimum Recommendations and May Imply Risks of Mercury Poisoning in Dogs and Cats

• Nutrition of the Domestic Cat, a Mammalian Carnivore

• Disease Prevalence Among Dogs and Cats in the United States and Australia and Proportions of Dogs and Cats that Receive Therapeutic Diets or Dietary Supplements

• Nutrition of Aging Cats

• Giving Pills to Cats