Cats are very different than dogs when it comes to their nutritional needs. Unfortunately, most cat owners feed their cat on grocery brand dry cat foods with high levels of corn, grains and carbohydrates. Cats are strict carnivores so they are not able to produce several key amino acids on their own and must obtain them by eating the meat or flesh of other animals to obtain these nutrients. Cats also require other nutritional supplements to remain healthy and ward off health problems. With so many supplements on the market it can be confusing to choose what is right for your feline friend. Before making your choice it is best to familiarize yourself with each ingredient its benefits before making a choice. Here is a list of common supplements or additives for your consideration:

1. Biotin: This important nutrient helps to maintain connective tissue and keeps the body rejuvenated. Cats need biotin for healthy thyroid, adrenal glands and a healthy reproductive system. Biotin also helps with skin infections and promotes a healthy, shiny coat.

2. Chondroitin: This is a molecule that occurs naturally in the body and is one of the main components in cartilage. Chondroitin keeps cartilage healthy by absorbing fluid into the connective tissue and blocking enzymes that can break cartilage down. Combined with Glucosamine, this supplement can help to stop damage to cartilage and treat osteoarthritis pain.

3. Chlorophyll: Due to the lack of horizontal jaw movement in cats it is hard for them to clean their teeth via chewing or eating certain treats. Cat dental health is important and chlorophyll helps to promote it by removing toxins from the bones, teeth, tissues and intestines. Chlorophyll also helps alleviate body odor and provides natural anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Cranberry: This supplement helps to treat bladder and kidney diseases in cats. Cranberry helps to block bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall and prevents infection by washing out the bacteria in the urine.

5. Fiber: While cats do not have a need for fiber in their diet it can promote colon health. Fiber helps absorb extra water in diarrheic stools and helps hold onto water to prevent constipation. Fiber also helps to reduce hairballs.

6. Glucosamine: This amino sugar is responsible for the synthesis of hyaluronic acid within the joints. Combined with Chondroitin, this supplement can help to rebuild joints and alleviate some pain associated with osteoarthritis.

7. Lecithin: Lecithin is a fatlike substance called a phospholipid and is produced daily by the liver if the diet is adequate. It is needed by every cell in the body and is a key building block of cell membranes; without it, they would harden resulting in lack of brain function. Lecithin helps to prevent senility in cats and is an excellent fat emulsifier.

8. Salmon Oil: This supplement helps to maintain healthy skin and coat condition and promotes a strong immune, cardiovascular and nervous system in cats. Salmon oil is an excellent source of the Omega-3 fatty acid essential to your cat’s good health.

9. Taurine: This essential amino-acid is indispensible for the formation of biliary salts in cats. These are necessary for the digestion of fats in the cat’s small intestine. Taurine also promotes healthy retinas which are important for a cat’s vision. Cats are not able to produce this amino-acid on their own so they must obtain it through their diet or adequate supplement.

10. Yucca: This is an all-natural steroidal supplement and is a natural anti-inflammatory and pain reliever with relatively mild gastric side effects. Yucca can be used for a variety of reasons to relieve pain and inflammation.

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