A soft, shiny coat is evidence of your pet’s overall health and well-being. Luckily, it’s easy to help your furry friend keep his coat in great shape.
Look for these ingredients in your pet’s food or treats, or find them in supplement form to give your pet’s coat a visible boost. As always, consult your pal’s veterinarian before adding supplements or introducing new foods into your pal’s diet.
1
Fish Oil
Fish oil, and the omega-3 fatty acids it contains, is good for dogs and cats for a whole host of reasons, but it’s especially helpful in maintaining your pet’s healthy skin and coat. Your pet can get fish oil from food and treats that contain it, as well as fish oil supplements, like the Dr. Lyon’s Skin & Coat Support dog supplement, which is formulated with salmon oil.
2
Biotin
Less commonly known as vitamin H, biotin is an essential nutrient for both pets and humans that helps the body metabolize carbs, fats and amino acids. Biotin for dogs also keeps their hair and skin shiny, supple and healthy. Clinical studies have shown that, biotin vitamin supplements have been able to remedy common problems like dull coat, hair loss and dermatitis in dogs.
Some multivitamin treats contain biotin, like the Zesty Paws 5-in-1 Multivitamin Bites, but you may want to consult your veterinarian before giving your buddy a supplement to determine how much is a safe amount for your pet.
3
Flaxseed
A good plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed can be found in food and treats for both dogs and cats. Like those containing fish oil, food and treats that have flaxseed, like the Greenies Feline SmartBites chicken flavor cat treats, contain the nourishing fats that are good for the skin and coat. It also provides beneficial fiber, which helps keep the digestive system in tip-top shape.
4
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Another fat that contributes to shiny and lustrous coats, omega-6 fatty acids can be found in some plant-based oils, such as sunflower oil, as well in some animal-based sources, such as salmon.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Salmon & Chicken Canned Dog Food is brimming with salmon. It’s a delicious recipe that’s not only rich in the omega-6 fatty acids your pup needs to maintain a beautiful coat, but also good for your pup’s digestion. Plus, it’s great as a food topper to add to your furry friend’s kibble.
And there’s Wellness Minced Salmon Dinner for your favorite kitty, of course. She’ll eagerly eat it up while deriving the benefits of a meal that’s packed with nutrients to keep her fur in top condition.
5
Vitamin A and Zinc
If your pet has scaly, red or irritated skin, it’s possible that the condition is caused by some kind of dietary deficiency. Supplements with zinc and/or vitamin A may help remedy them, like the PetAg Linatone Shed Relief Plus with Zinc, which contains both ingredients in its formulation to help promote a healthy coat in dogs.
However, you need to know exactly what skin condition your pet is suffering from and what vitamin he is deficient in first. It’s essential to see your veterinarian before giving your little pal anything for these symptoms so you’ll know how to treat them and what dog supplements can help.
As always, it is best to speak with your veterinarian before starting your pet on any new diet or regimen, including vitamins and supplements. While adding some supplements to your pet’s diet could greatly improve his health and his coat, it is possible to give him too much of a good thing, which could lead to negative effects. So, just be sure to check in with your vet to find the best supplement plan for your pet.
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