A Guide to Pet Nutritional Supplements: How to Choose the Right Support for Your Dog or Cat

Disclaimer: This guide does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet’s routine or diet—especially if your pet is taking medications or managing a health condition.
From picky eaters to stressed pups, nutritional supplements for pets can be a simple yet effective way to support your dog or cat’s health from nose to tail. But with so many options available, choosing the right supplement can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common types of pet supplements, what to look for in a trusted brand, and how natural, certified formulas can help support your pet’s digestion, mobility, skin health, and overall wellness.
What to Look for in a Pet Supplement Brand
- Look for clinical validation. Brands that invest in clinical studies—either in-house or third-party—demonstrate a commitment to product efficacy.
- Contact the company. Call the number on the package to ask who formulated the supplement and what kind of nutritional, veterinary, or medical expertise they have.
- Check for certifications. Prioritize products with NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) or USDA Organic seals.
- Inspect the label. Clear ingredient lists, lot numbers, and transparent sourcing are all signs of a trustworthy company.
- Avoid too-good-to-be-true claims. Supplements are designed to support health—not cure conditions.
- Stick with pet-specific formulas. Human supplements may contain harmful ingredients like xylitol or inappropriate dosages for animals.
Pet Releaf’s Supplement Standards
At Pet Releaf, we take product safety and quality seriously. All of our products are NASC-certified, third-party tested for purity and potency, and formulated by experts in pet wellness. We use Full Spectrum Hemp Extract along with other purposeful ingredients to help your pet feel their best, naturally.
Top Pet Supplement Categories to Know
1. Omegas and Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) play a crucial role in supporting your pet’s skin, coat, joint, and immune health. Many pet parents use omegas to promote heart function and a normal inflammatory response. While traditional omega supplements are often derived from fish oil, not all pets tolerate fish-based products well—and there are growing concerns about mercury levels and sustainability.
For pets with sensitivities, Pet Releaf Rituals Fish-Free Omega 3 offers a clean, vegan alternative. Made from algae oil, it delivers the same EPA and DHA benefits as fish oil without the risk of environmental contaminants. As a cleaner and less calorically dense option, this daily supplement provides all the same wellness benefits—supporting hydrated skin, a shiny coat, joint comfort, and immune health for both dogs and cats.
2. Digestive Support
Even if your pet is eating a balanced, commercial diet, they may still benefit from added digestive support—especially if they experience occasional tummy troubles, inconsistent appetites, or food sensitivities. Factors like stress, changes in routine, or even introducing a new treat can impact the gut, making it harder for your pet to absorb nutrients and maintain regularity.
A simple, natural way to support your pet’s digestive system is by incorporating pet-safe fruits and vegetables into their routine. Options like carrots, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and green beans are rich in fiber and essential vitamins, making them excellent low-calorie snacks for dogs. Cats can enjoy small amounts of fruits like blueberries or bananas—just be sure to introduce them gradually and observe how they respond.
For a more targeted and consistent solution, try adding Pet Releaf Rituals Digestive Powder with Postbiotics to your pet’s daily meals. This veterinarian-backed formula helps soothe sensitive stomachs and supports healthy digestion. Unlike traditional prebiotics and probiotics, which introduce new bacteria into the gut, postbiotics work by nourishing the existing microbiome—without causing additional gas or bloating. Whether you’re managing occasional loose stools or simply supporting long-term digestive health, postbiotics are a simple, reliable daily routine addition for both dogs and cats.
3. Joint Support: Glucosamine & Chondroitin
As pets stay active, their joints can experience normal soreness or wear and tear that may lead to occasional stiffness or decreased mobility. Supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin are widely used to support joint health in both dogs and cats. These ingredients work together to help maintain healthy cartilage, lubricate joints through synovial fluid, and promote flexibility and comfort during daily activities.
While glucosamine and chondroitin can be highly effective, results may take up to six weeks to become noticeable, so consistency is key. To get the most out of your joint support routine, choose a supplement that delivers clean, high-quality ingredients in a format your pet will actually enjoy.
For daily support, try Hip & Joint Releaf Edibites or Hip & Joint Releaf Oils. These functional supplements combine glucosamine, chondroitin, and full spectrum hemp extract to help ease joint stiffness, promote mobility, and support overall joint and connective tissue health—especially in pets experiencing an active lifestyle.
4. Hemp & CBD for Pets
CBD (cannabidiol) has quickly become one of the most trusted and widely used supplements in pet wellness—and for good reason. Derived from hemp, CBD works with your pet’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory network that helps maintain balance across key systems in the body.
By supporting the ECS, CBD may help promote a sense of calm during stressful situations like travel, thunderstorms, or vet visits. It also plays a role in maintaining healthy digestion, immune response, joint comfort, and more. Whether your pet needs daily or occasional support, CBD can be a powerful addition to their wellness routine.
At Pet Releaf, all CBD products are made with full spectrum hemp extract from U.S.-based farms that use sustainable and regenerative practices. Each product is third-party tested for purity and potency and backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can feel confident knowing exactly what you’re giving your pet.
Tips for Pet Supplement Safety
- Always consult your veterinarian before starting a new supplement, especially if your pet has existing health conditions.
- Follow serving guidelines on the label.
- Observe your pet’s behavior and physical health for signs of improvement—or sensitivity.
- Stick with one new supplement at a time to better understand its effects.
Support Your Pet’s Wellness, Naturally
When it comes to your pet’s health, you don’t have to settle for harsh pharmaceuticals or supplements packed with unnecessary fillers. There are always clean, natural options available to support their well-being—without compromising on quality or safety.
Whether your pup needs extra joint support or your cat struggles with occasional digestive issues, Pet Releaf offers a range of carefully crafted CBD and non-hemp supplements made with purposeful, vet-approved ingredients. Our formulas are free from artificial additives and designed to help you build a gentle, effective wellness routine that supports your pet from the inside out.