What Vitamins Are Good for Dogs & Cats? What Your Pet Really Needs

Providing the right vitamins and minerals is essential for your pet’s long-term health. However, it’s not always clear what they actually need, or whether supplements are necessary at all.

If you’re wondering what vitamins are good for dogs or cats, the answer depends on diet, age, and overall health. While most pets get nutrients from their food, targeted supplements can support areas like joints, skin, digestion, and immunity when needed.

Key Takeaways

• Dogs and cats need different vitamins and minerals, with nutrients like vitamin A, D, omega-3s, and taurine playing key roles in overall health.
• Deficiencies in essential nutrients can lead to issues such as poor coat condition, low energy, joint problems, and weakened immunity.
• Most pets get what they need from a balanced diet, but supplements can help in cases of ageing, illness, or specific health concerns.
• Targeted supplements (e.g. for joints, skin, or digestion) are more effective than general use without a clear need.
• Always consult a vet before introducing supplements to ensure safety, correct dosage, and suitability for your pet.

What Vitamins & Minerals Do Dogs Need in Their Food?

Dogs require a wide range of nutrients to support growth, energy, and overall wellbeing. A balanced diet should already include these, but understanding their role helps you identify when extra support may be useful.

1. Vitamin A

Vitamin A plays a key role in maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting skin repair. It’s particularly relevant for dogs with eye issues or recurring skin concerns.

Vitamin A deficiency may lead to:

• Poor vision or night blindness
• Dry or irritated skin (see what to do if your dog’s scratching non-stop)
• Increased risk of infections

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps regulate calcium and phosphorus levels, which are essential for strong bones and teeth. This is especially important in growing puppies and older dogs, where bone health can be more vulnerable.

Deficiency may lead to:

• Weak bones or skeletal issues
• Muscle weakness
• Growth problems in puppies

3. Vitamin E

Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect your dog’s cells from damage. It’s also essential for proper cell function and fat metabolism.

Low levels of vitamin E contribute to:

• Dry or irritated skin
• Poor coat quality
• Reduced immune resilience

4. B Vitamins

The B-complex vitamins support energy production, brain function, and red blood cell formation, making them essential for active, growing, or recovering dogs.

They play a role in:

• Energy production and metabolism
• Healthy brain and nervous system function
• Red blood cell formation and oxygen transport
• Appetite regulation
• Skin and coat health
• Stress response and recovery from illness

Low levels may contribute to:

• Low energy or lethargy
• Poor appetite
• Weight loss
• Neurological symptoms (in more severe cases)

5. Vitamin C

Unlike humans, dogs can produce their own vitamin C. However, during periods of stress, illness, or ageing, additional vitamin C may help support their immune system and overall health.

It may help with:

• Supporting immune function
• Reducing oxidative stress
• Supporting joint health (especially in ageing dogs)
• Aiding recovery from illness or physical stress

Low levels (or increased needs) may contribute to:

• Reduced ability to cope with stress
• Slower recovery from illness
• Increased inflammation

6. Calcium & Phosphorus

These minerals work together to support bone structure and dental health. Getting the balance right is particularly important for large breeds.

Imbalance may lead to:

• Bone deformities
• Joint stress
• Developmental issues in young dogs

7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s help reduce inflammation, support joint mobility, and improve skin and coat condition.

Low levels may contribute to:

• Joint stiffness or discomfort
• Dry, itchy skin
• Dull coat

Read also: Dog Arthritis Symptoms: Spotting & Managing Canine Joint Pain.

8. Zinc

Zinc supports wound healing, skin repair, and immune defence. A deficiency can lead to hair loss or skin irritation.

What Vitamins & Minerals Do Cats Need in Their Food?

Cats have more specialised nutritional requirements than dogs, largely because they are obligate carnivores. This means some nutrients are absolutely essential in their diet.

1. Taurine

Taurine is one of the most important nutrients for cats. It supports heart function, vision, and reproductive health, and must be obtained from their diet.

Deficiency may lead to:

• Heart disease (dilated cardiomyopathy)
• Vision loss or blindness
• Reproductive issues

2. Vitamin A

Cats cannot produce vitamin A from plant sources, so they rely entirely on animal-based intake. It plays a key role in maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting healthy skin and coat.

Low levels may lead to:

• Vision problems
• Skin issues
• Increased infection risk

3. Vitamin D

Like dogs, cats rely on vitamin D for bone health and calcium regulation. Vitamin D is particularly important for indoor cats with limited sunlight exposure.

Deficiency may lead to:

• Bone weakness
• Lethargy
• Muscle issues

4. B Vitamins

B vitamins are essential for metabolism and neurological function, particularly during stress, illness, or recovery.

Low levels may cause:

• Reduced appetite
• Weight loss
• Low energy

5. Omega-3 fatty acids

As with dogs, omega-3s support healthy skin, coat condition, and joint function in cats.

Low levels may contribute to:

• Dull coat
• Dry skin
• Increased inflammation
• Reduced joint comfort or stiffness over time

6. Iron

Iron supports the production of red blood cells. Deficiencies can lead to anaemia, fatigue, and pale gums.

Read also: Is Your Cat Hiding Pain? Subtle Signs to Watch For.

When Should I Give Supplements to My Dog or Cat?

Not every pet needs supplements. However, there are situations where they can be beneficial. You may want to consider supplements if your pet:

• Is on a homemade or unbalanced diet
• Is ageing (senior dogs or cats)
• Has skin issues, allergies, or hair loss
• Shows signs of joint stiffness or reduced mobility
• Is recovering from illness or surgery
• Has digestive sensitivities

It’s always best to speak with a vet before introducing supplements, particularly if your pet is already on medication. You can also learn more in this pet prescriptions guide.

Types of Supplements for Cats & Dogs

Pet supplements are designed to support specific health needs, rather than acting as general “boosters”.

Most Common Supplements for Dogs

Joint supplements

Joint supplements help maintain mobility and reduce inflammation, especially in ageing or active dogs. They typically contain glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support cartilage health and joint lubrication. Regular use can improve comfort and reduce stiffness over time.

Best for dogs with: arthritis, joint pain, stiffness, reduced mobility

Skin & coat supplements

These supplements support skin health and improve coat quality. They usually include omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E, helping to reduce dryness, itching, and inflammation while promoting a shinier coat.

Best for dogs with: allergies, itchy skin, hair loss, dull coat

Digestive supplements

Digestive supplements contain probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes that help balance gut bacteria and improve nutrient absorption. They can support dogs with sensitive stomachs or irregular digestion.

Best for dogs with: diarrhoea, bloating, sensitive digestion, gut imbalance

Multivitamins

Multivitamins provide a broad range of essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health. They are particularly useful when a dog’s diet may not be fully balanced, such as with homemade feeding.

Best for dogs with: nutritional gaps, low energy, incomplete diets

Most Common Supplements for Cats

Joint supplements

Joint supplements help maintain flexibility and comfort, especially in older cats. They often include glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids to support cartilage and reduce inflammation.

Best for cats with: arthritis, stiffness, reduced mobility

Hairball supplements

Hairball supplements support digestion and help move ingested hair through the digestive system. They often contain fibre, oils, or mild lubricants to reduce hairball formation.

Best for cats with: frequent hairballs, long hair, excessive grooming

Skin & coat supplements

These supplements help maintain healthy skin and a glossy coat. They usually contain omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and essential vitamins that support skin barrier function and reduce irritation.

Best for cats with: dry skin, hair loss, dull coat

Calming supplements

Calming supplements are designed to reduce stress and anxiety. They often include ingredients like L-theanine, tryptophan, or herbal extracts that support relaxation without sedation.

Best for cats with: stress, anxiety, behavioural changes

Best Vitamins & Supplements for Cats & Dogs — Final Thoughts

A balanced diet is the foundation of your pet’s health, but the right supplements can provide targeted support when needed, especially for joints, skin, or age-related changes.

Explore our full range of dog and cat supplements to find the right support for your dog or cat!