With most pet health issues, a good diet can help avoid later problems. This is true for joint health, too. Certain ingredients in high-quality pet foods help support joint health. Some dogs with advanced age or joint health issues may need additional help from supplements or medications, but a good diet can help to maintain your pet’s healthy joints longer.
Why Your Pet May Develop Joint Pain
There are many reasons that pets develop problems with their joints. One of the most common causes of joint pain is obesity, since excess weight puts more stress on a dog or cat's joints. Certain dog breeds, like German Shepherds, may also be more likely to have joint health problems. In addition, there are medical conditions which older pets are more prone to developing, such as arthritis.¹
Your Pet's Diet and Joint Health
Ideally, pets would never have to deal with painful joints. Unfortunately, it is a reality for many pets and their parents. One of the best ways to prevent joint pain and support joint health in dogs and cats is to make sure their diets are rich in whole foods containing ingredients with anti-inflammatory and joint healing properties.
“One of the most common anti-inflammatory ingredients found in pet foods is the omega 3 fatty acid DHA (docosahexaenioc acid).”² Whole foods that supply natural sources of omega 3 fatty acids include sardines, as well as other fish, and spinach.
Fruits and vegetables containing antioxidants also possess anti-inflammatory properties. Some particularly joint-beneficial fruits and veggies are apples, tomatoes, kelp, and spinach.³
Since dogs and cats are carnivorous by nature, it is important for them to eat diets rich in animal ingredients. It is widely known that glucosamine and chondroitin, very common ingredients in joint supplements, are beneficial to joint health. However, many glucosamine/chondroitin supplements may not be whole-food based and there are, in fact, foods that naturally supply these joint-building substances. They can be found in egg shell, egg shell membrane, and small blood vessels and cartilage of animal ingredients found in high-quality pet foods.
Whole foods provide pets with an abundance of naturally occurring nutrients: Proteins, vitamins, minerals, fiber, probiotics, enzymes, antioxidants, co-factors, phytonutrients, and more. The natural synergies and increased bioavailability of these extra nutrients ensure the best possible nutrition for your pet's joint and over-all health. Nature’s Logic has formulated truly natural pet foods made completely of whole food ingredients substantiated for all the life stages of dogs and cats. For more information, visit www.natureslogic.com .
What natural approaches have you taken to address your pet's joint health?
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