Skin Supplements for Dogs and Cats: Key Ingredients

Adding in supplements to your pet’s diet can be a great way to help maintain their healthy skin and coat. Some skin supplements for dogs and cats might aim to reduce moulting, while others might help maintain a glossy coat, or relieve itchy skin. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the key ingredients inside different skin supplements for pets, and how they work.

Tip: You should always check with your vet before introducing new supplements to your cat or dog, particularly if they are already being medicated for a skin condition.

Lecithin

This essential fat can be derived from sources such as soybeans, sunflower seeds and eggs.

Lecithin provides a concentrated source of phospholipids which means it can seal in moisture to keep skin well-hydrated. These moisturising properties can help to address dry and flaky skin problems, and they also assist with healthy coat growth.

A dog skin and coat supplement like this one from YuMove contains lecithin as one of its key ingredients.

Zinc

This vital mineral plays a role in lots of different bodily processes, including those related to skin.

Zinc is a cornerstone of the skin’s immune function, facilitating wound healing and preventing infections.

It’s also needed for collagen production. Collagen is a protein responsible for the skin’s elasticity and strength.

Pets deficient in zinc may exhibit symptoms like dry, cracked skin and heightened susceptibility to infections. Speak to your vet if you suspect your pet may be deficient, as they can test zinc levels and suggest supplements. Zinc supplementation can help alleviate these issues, fostering healthier skin and a more resilient coat.

Biotin

A member of the B-vitamin family, Biotin facilitates the production of keratin. This is a protein responsible for strong and healthy skin, fur and nails in our pets.

Skin supplements for dogs and cats containing biotin can promote stronger, less brittle fur and nails. It’s especially beneficial for pets with thinning coats, as it encourages fur growth and density.

Additionally, biotin helps stave off dry, flaky skin, contributing to overall skin health and comfort.

Biotin is present in the Broadreach Omega EFA Advanced Oil for Dogs and Cats. This skin supplement for dogs and cats also contains many of the other key ingredients mentioned in this blog, including zinc, lecithin and plenty of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant, and will neutralise ‘free radicals’ in your pet’s body. These are formed through normal bodily processes, but they go on to damage other cells. Vitamin E defends against these as well as environmental pollutants and UV rays.

It can also enhance circulation. This ensures essential nutrients reach the skin’s surface, resulting in improved skin tone and texture.

Making sure your pet has enough vitamin E can help to mitigate the severity of skin conditions like dermatitis and eczema.

This supplementary oil from YuMOVE may help to reduce moulting in dogs, and contains lots of vitamin E, along with premium cold-pressed oils.


Omega-3 Fatty Acids

You may well have heard of these powerhouse nutrients before, as they are also integral to healthy human skin.

These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties which can help to alleviate itchy and irritated skin. They can also support a healthy skin barrier, which is important for preventing moisture loss and protecting against environmental irritants.

Omega-3s can also contribute to a glossy coat. They help regulate oil production in the skin, reducing excessive shedding and promoting a lovely sheen.

Plenty of omega-3 (as well as omega-6) fatty acids can be found in the Complederm, which is suitable for both cats and dogs.

Natural Pet Skin & Coat Supplements

Other ingredients that you might find in skin supplements for dogs and cats include GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) which is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, and Evening Primrose Oil, which is high in omega-6. Both of these are present in these natural skin supplements for pets from Dorwest.

Wrapping Up

While this is not an exhaustive list of the ingredients that may have a beneficial effect on your pet’s skin, keeping an eye out for these key ingredients when choosing skin supplements for your dog or cat is a great starting point on your supplement journey. For our full range of cat skin supplements and dog skin supplements, take a look at our website.