One of the common questions our veterinarians get is “What vitamins should I get for my cat?” Or “Is it safe to give cat vitamins?” The answers to these questions can vary because each cat has specific health needs. Generally, cats should get all (or a majority) of their daily recommended vitamins and minerals from their AAFCO-approved cat food.
In some cases, however, cats can benefit from cat vitamins or multivitamins for cats if they have specific health issues, have nutritional deficiencies, or exhibit picky eating habits.
In this complete guide, we will answer the most commonly asked questions about multivitamins for cats and talk about some cat vitamins that give plenty of health benefits.
What’s in This Guide?
- Common Ingredients in Cat Vitamins
- What Vitamins Should I Get for My Cat?
- Is It Safe to Give Cat Vitamins?
- How Often Should I Give My Cat Vitamins?
- 5 Best Multivitamins for Cats
Common Ingredients in Cat Vitamins
Some of the most important vitamins for cats include vitamins A, B-complex, D, E, and K. Meanwhile vital minerals include calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. These vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in maintaining various bodily systems. They are often found in multivitamins for cats.
In addition, other beneficial ingredients can be found in some cat vitamins, such as omega-3 fatty acids (e.g. EPA, DHA), antioxidants, probiotics, and more.
What Vitamins Should I Get for My Cat?
Generally, essential vitamins and minerals can be found in AAFCO-certified pet food. If you’re looking into getting multivitamins for cats, these need to complement your cat’s diet. This is why consulting a vet is essential for choosing the best cat vitamins for your feline friend; vets weigh your cat’s needs and diet.
Is It Safe to Give Cat Vitamins?
Yes, it is safe to give cat vitamins, but only under veterinary guidance. Overdosing or improper balances can harm your cat, so it's essential to use supplements specifically formulated for cats.
Note: Avoid giving cats human vitamins or vitamins for other species, as they can contain unsafe ingredients or have improper dosages. Your veterinarian can recommend the best cat vitamins or supplements for your fur baby, based on their needs.
How Often Should I Give My Cat Vitamins?
Most manufacturers include dosing instructions for their cat vitamins. Make sure to follow these instructions, unless your veterinarian has provided personalized dosing recommendations for your cat. When in doubt, double-check with your vet!
5 Best Cat Vitamins & Multivitamins
The following are vet-preferred supplements for cats that contain vitamins, minerals, and/or other beneficial active ingredients for feline fur babies. The following list of cat vitamins is a great starting point for discussing options with a trusted vet!
1. Purina Pro Plan FortiFlora® Feline Nutritional Supplements
- Best for: most cats (helps maintain digestive health and immunity)
- Multivitamins for cats: Probiotics (Enterococcus faecium, brewers dried yeast), L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Vitamin E supplement, beta-Carotene, zinc proteinate, taurine, and more
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store
Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora is a feline supplement that contains probiotics, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc, taurine, and more.
Probiotics help cats maintain a healthy gut while vitamins C and E are powerful antioxidants that protect cellular health. Zinc helps support a cat’s immune system. Last but not least, taurine is an amino acid that is crucial for a cat’s cardiac health and vision — a deficiency in this amino acid can lead to heart disease as well as vision impairment.
2. Imuquin® Immune Health Supplement for Cats
- Best for: cats with immuno-suppression or needing to fight off viral disease
- Multivitamins for cats: Yeast extract, DHA, EPA, Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron, Copper, Manganese, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin D3, Vitamin E, and more
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store
Imuquin® Immune Health Supplement for Cats is a supplement that contains yeast extract, (a source of B vitamins), as well as omega-3 fatty acids, and various other vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health.
Since this cat vitamin is formulated to support immune health, it contains the following ingredients that contribute to a healthy immune system in cats: vitamins A and E, zinc, iron, and copper.
These supplements for cats also benefit other bodily systems with various beneficial active ingredients. Calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin D3 are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. In addition, B vitamins from the yeast extract are vital for energy metabolism and nervous system functioning. Last but not least, DHA and EPA are omega-3 fatty acids that collectively support brain and eye health, reduce inflammation, and maintain healthy joints.
3. Purina® Pro Plan® Hydra Care™
- Best for: male and female cats (helps prevent kidney disease and other urinary issues)
- Multivitamins for cats: Water, whey protein isolate, glycerin, guar gum, potassium chloride
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store
Next on our list of beneficial multivitamins for cats, Purina® Pro Plan® Hydra Care™ is a supplement formulated for maintaining healthy hydration in cats. Though it may not come with a long list of vitamins and minerals, its formulation of nutrient-enriched water helps prevent feline kidney disease, urinary obstruction (common in male cats), and other common feline urinary issues.
This supplement for cats contains humectants and thickening agents like glycerin and guar gum which helps keep the supplement moist upon consumption. In addition, the product also contains potassium, which is necessary for maintaining a cat’s hydration and fluid balance.
As a bonus, this cat supplement also has whey protein, a high-quality protein source for cats that supports muscular repair and benefits the immune system. To top it all off, this supplement’s delicious liver flavor makes it popular among many cats!
4. ZM-ULTRA Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs
- Best for: adult and older cats (helps maintain joint health)
- Multivitamins for cats: Glucosamine HCL, Chondroitin Sulfate, MSM* (Methylsulfonylmethane), Rimoxen (Proprietary Blend), Linoleic Acid, GLA (Gamma-linolenic Acid), EPA), DHA, Calcium, Vitamin C, Potassium, Magnesium, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin B, Vitamin E, Iodine
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store
ZM-ULTRA Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs is a multivitamin for cats, packed with ingredients that support the joints, as well as overall health. This supplement is typically recommended for adult cats and older cats, especially since it helps in maintaining healthy mobility as a cat approaches (or is within) their senior years.
Glucosamine HCL is a natural compound found in cartilage while chondroitin sulfate is a key component of cartilage. Together, these ingredients help rebuild and maintain healthy cartilage in a cat’s joints. In addition, MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) and omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA), and omega-6 fatty acids (GLA, linoleic acid) help reduce inflammation.
All the other vitamins and minerals in this multivitamin for cats are essential for overall health. These include calcium and vitamin D for bone health; vitamins C, E and iodine for immune system functions; and potassium and magnesium for electrolyte balance and muscle function.
5. Krillex Joint Formula Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs
- Best for: adult and older cats (helps maintain joint health)
- Multivitamins for cats: Omega3 fatty acids, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane), Hyaluronic Acid
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store
Krillex Joint Formula Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs is a supplement for cats that is formulated for helping a cat maintain great mobility and joint health.
It contains omega-3 fatty acids from krill oil and MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) which help reduce inflammation. These cat vitamins also contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which help repair and maintain cartilage. Last but not least, hyaluronic acid, a key component of synovial fluid, helps in keeping joints lubricated and cushioned.
Final Thoughts on Cat Vitamins
This wraps up our guide on some of the best cat vitamins in the market and essential tips on incorporating multivitamins for cats in your cat’s diet. For more vet-preferred options, make sure to visit SplootRX, your go-to online pet store and pharmacy.
We highly recommend consulting a vet before giving supplements to your feline companion. This ensures you get personalized recommendations for maximum health benefits. In addition, cat vitamins and healthy cat food go hand-in-hand with other aspects of your cat’s routine care.
→ Learn more - Cat Care Routine For a Healthy & Happy Cat [Vet-Approved Guide]
Sploot: Your Go-To Cat Vet for Complete Care
If you have any questions about for cat’s health, we are always here to help. Sploot Vets is your go-to vet clinic for primary (preventative), urgent, and emergency vet services for cats. We have numerous locations in Denver and Chicago, offering comprehensive feline vet care and daily availability (365 days a year, with extended clinic hours).
Book an appointment online or through the Sploot Vets app. Till next time, we’re with you every pounce of the way!
