Store shelves are full of pastes and tablets for cats, and the key question is: does your cat actually need them? The answer depends on its diet, age and health. Here is a simple guide.
The basic rule
A healthy adult cat eating a complete and balanced food usually gets the vitamins and minerals it needs. Supplements help in specific cases and do not replace good food.
Common supplements and when they help
1. Multivitamins
For cats with poor appetite or recovering from illness.
For cats on home-made or incomplete diets.
For weak kittens (with a kitten-specific formula).
2. Biotin and zinc (skin and coat)
When shedding increases or skin is dry and flaky.
For long-haired cats to keep the coat shiny.
3. L-Lysine
Used to support immunity in cats with recurring respiratory signs such as sneezing and eye discharge.
A supportive supplement, not a treatment, and best used after consulting a vet.
4. Digestive supplements (probiotics)
For stomach upsets or mild diarrhea.
After antibiotics or when changing food.
5. Hairball remedies (malt)
For long-haired cats, during shedding seasons, and when hairballs are frequent.
Paste or tablets?
Pastes: usually the easiest, as most cats lick them from a finger or on food.
Tablets: precise dosing, suitable for cats that take them as a treat or when hidden in a creamy treat.
Important tips
Stick to the dose on the pack, as more is not better.
Do not combine several similar supplements at the same time.
Give a supplement enough time (usually 4 weeks or more) before judging results.
Consult your vet if your cat is ill, pregnant or on medication.
At Catu Store
Multivitamin pastes from GimCat and Feline Go, for adult cats and kittens.
Zoe biotin and zinc paste, and Feline Go skin and coat paste.
Feline Go Lysine Paste, and Feline Go digestive supplement 60 tablets.
This article is for general information and does not replace veterinary advice.