When it comes to feeding your pet, homemade food is one of the best ways to ensure they’re getting the freshest, most nutritious meals. You control what goes into their food, which means you can use high-quality ingredients and tailor each meal to meet their specific needs. However, just like humans, pets need a range of nutrients to thrive—some of which can be tricky to get from food alone. That’s where supplements come in.
In this article, we’ll talk about the most important supplements to consider when making homemade pet food. I’ll also share some personal experiences and tips to help you ensure your pet is getting everything they need to stay healthy, happy, and full of energy.
Why Supplements Are Important for Homemade Pet Food
Homemade pet food offers amazing benefits, but it’s important to remember that pets, like us, need a balanced diet with a variety of nutrients. While fresh meat, vegetables, and grains are great sources of nutrition, they might not cover every single vitamin or mineral your pet needs. This is where supplements can help fill in the gaps. Think of them as a little extra boost to ensure your pet is getting the best of everything.
I learned the importance of supplements when I first started making Max’s meals at home. Although he loved his new diet, I quickly realized that he seemed a bit sluggish, and his coat wasn’t as shiny as usual. After talking to my vet and researching more about pet nutrition, I discovered that I wasn’t providing him with enough essential fatty acids and certain vitamins. Once I added a few key supplements to his meals, I noticed a huge difference in his energy and overall health.
1. Fish Oil for Healthy Skin and Coat
Fish oil is one of the most popular and beneficial supplements for pets. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their ability to support healthy skin and coat, reduce inflammation, and even improve heart health. Omega-3s are also crucial for brain health, making them especially important for older pets or those with cognitive issues.
If your pet has dry, flaky skin or a dull coat, fish oil could make a big difference. I added fish oil to Max’s meals after he started experiencing some itching and hair loss. Within a few weeks, his coat was shinier, and he wasn’t scratching as much. It’s like a little miracle in a bottle!
How to Add Fish Oil:
You can find fish oil in liquid or capsule form. For smaller pets, liquid is easier to incorporate into their food, while larger pets might benefit from capsules that can be broken open. The general guideline is about 1/4 teaspoon of liquid fish oil per 10 pounds of body weight. Always follow the dosage instructions on the label and check with your vet to make sure you’re giving the right amount.
2. Probiotics for Digestive Health
Just like humans, pets need a healthy gut to process food properly and absorb nutrients. Probiotics are live bacteria that support your pet’s digestive system, keeping things running smoothly. They can also help with issues like diarrhea, constipation, and even allergies.
I started adding probiotics to Daisy’s meals when I noticed she had a sensitive stomach. Sometimes, she would have trouble digesting new foods, and I wanted to help balance her gut health. Probiotics made a noticeable difference—her digestion improved, and she seemed to feel better overall.
How to Add Probiotics:
You can find probiotics specifically designed for pets, either in powder or capsule form. If you’re using powder, simply sprinkle a small amount over their food, following the recommended dosage on the label. Some pet foods even include probiotics as part of the recipe, but it’s always a good idea to add a little extra if your pet has digestive issues.
3. Multivitamins for Overall Health
Even with the best homemade meals, your pet may still be missing out on some key vitamins and minerals. A good multivitamin can help ensure that your pet’s diet is balanced and complete. These supplements often contain a combination of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, along with minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
I noticed that Max started feeling more energetic when I added a multivitamin to his food. He had been getting the basics—meat, veggies, grains—but I wanted to be sure he wasn’t missing out on any essential nutrients. After adding a quality multivitamin, I noticed he seemed to recover faster from exercise and had more endurance.
How to Add Multivitamins:
Multivitamins come in various forms, including chewable tablets, powders, and liquids. Make sure to choose a multivitamin that’s specifically formulated for pets, as human vitamins can contain ingredients that are harmful to animals. Follow the recommended dosage based on your pet’s size and weight.
4. Glucosamine for Joint Health
If your pet is getting older, or if they have joint issues like arthritis, glucosamine is a supplement worth considering. Glucosamine helps maintain the health of cartilage in joints, which can reduce pain and improve mobility. It’s especially helpful for large breeds, senior pets, or those with a history of joint problems.
When I noticed Max starting to limp after long walks, I began adding glucosamine to his diet. Over time, he seemed to feel more comfortable during walks, and his mobility improved. It wasn’t an instant fix, but the gradual improvement was encouraging.
How to Add Glucosamine:
Glucosamine is available in powder, liquid, or tablet form. The dosage depends on your pet’s weight, so check the label or ask your vet for guidance. It’s often combined with other joint-supporting ingredients like chondroitin and MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) for added benefits.
5. Calcium for Strong Bones
Calcium is another essential nutrient that pets need, especially those who are eating homemade food. If you’re feeding your pet a raw or cooked meat-based diet, they may not be getting enough calcium from bones alone. Calcium supports strong bones and teeth, and it also helps with muscle function and nerve transmission.
I realized that I needed to add calcium to Max’s meals when I learned that feeding him only meat wasn’t enough to provide the proper calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. A simple calcium supplement made sure he got the right amount for strong, healthy bones.
How to Add Calcium:
Calcium supplements come in various forms, including powders, tablets, and liquids. You can also use ground eggshells as a natural source of calcium. Typically, you should add about 250 mg of calcium per 10 pounds of body weight, but always consult with your vet to ensure you’re using the right amount.
6. Spirulina for Immune Support
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s especially good for boosting the immune system and fighting off inflammation. If your pet is recovering from an illness or is prone to infections, spirulina can be a great supplement to add to their diet.
I started using spirulina for Daisy when she was recovering from a bout of the flu. I wanted to help her immune system rebuild, and spirulina gave her the extra support she needed. After a few weeks, her energy levels returned to normal, and she seemed much healthier.
How to Add Spirulina:
Spirulina is available in powder or tablet form. You can sprinkle the powder on your pet’s food or mix it into their water. The typical dosage for pets is 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight, but always check the label for exact instructions.
Conclusion: The Power of Supplements for Pet Health
Homemade pet food is a fantastic way to ensure your pet is getting fresh, nutritious meals. However, it’s important to remember that pets need a balanced diet, and sometimes that means adding a few extra supplements to their meals. Fish oil, probiotics, multivitamins, glucosamine, calcium, and spirulina are all great options to support your pet’s overall health.
Of course, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet before adding any new supplements, especially if your pet has specific health conditions or dietary needs. With the right supplements, you can give your pet the best chance for a long, healthy, and happy life.
By taking the time to carefully consider what your pet needs and adding the right supplements, you’re investing in their health and well-being. It’s a small effort that pays off in big ways—your pet will thank you with wagging tails and happy purrs!