Walk into any pet shop and you’ll see shelves packed with supplements promising shinier coats, stronger joints and better digestion. It’s easy to assume they’re essential for your pet’s health. But are supplements really necessary – or could they do more harm than good? Expert vet Dr Scott Miller explains when supplements can help, and when they’re best avoided. What are pet supplements? > Why do pet owners choose to give their cat or dog supplements? How do I know if my adult cat or dog needs supplements? > Examples of when a pet might need supplements > Are pet supplements safe? Do older cats and dogs need supplements? Do puppies and kittens need supplements? What are pet supplements? Pet supplements are products designed to provide additional nutrients or ingredients that support specific aspects of your pet’s health. They often come in powders, tablets or treats, and may contain: Vitamins and minerals (such as calcium, zinc and vitamins A, C, D and E) Fatty acids like omega-3 Amino acids Joint-support ingredients such as glucosamine Herbal extracts like milk thistle or turmeric Prebiotics and probiotics Some supplements aim to correct nutritional gaps, while others are designed to support particular...