Does Your Cat Need Calcium Supplements?

Is your cat getting enough calcium in their diet? If not, they may need calcium supplements to ensure they stay healthy. Cats need calcium for strong bones and muscles, and it’s important to make sure they’re getting enough of this essential nutrient.

However, too much calcium can be just as harmful as not enough, so it’s important to talk to your vet before giving your cat any supplements. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the signs that your cat may need calcium supplements and how to give them safely.

What are calcium supplements and why do cats need them?

As your cat gets older, its bones may begin to weaken and lose density. This can lead to a condition called osteoporosis, which makes the bones brittle and more likely to break. A lack of calcium in the diet is one possible cause of osteoporosis, which is why some vets recommend calcium supplements for cats.

Calcium supplements come in a variety of forms, including tablets, liquids, and powders. They can be given with food or mixed into water. Some brands also make treats that contain calcium supplements.

Most cats get enough calcium from their diet and don’t need supplements. However, if your cat isn’t eating a balanced diet or has a medical condition that affects their ability to absorb nutrients, they may benefit from taking calcium supplements. Talk to your vet about whether calcium supplements are right for your cat.

The different types of calcium supplements available for cats

There are a few different types of calcium supplements available for cats, each with its own set of pros and cons. Here’s a look at the most popular options:

1. Liquid calcium supplements: These are easy to administer and are typically well-tolerated by cats. However, they can be pricey and some brands contain ingredients that may not be ideal for your cat (such as artificial flavors and sweeteners).

2. Powder calcium supplements: These are a more affordable option, but they can be tricky to get your cat to consume all of the powder. Additionally, some brands of powder calcium supplements may not be as easily absorbed by the body as liquids.

3. Chewy calcium supplements: These are becoming increasingly popular as they’re easy to give and most cats seem to enjoy the taste. However, they can be pricier than other options and some brands contain sugar or other ingredients that you may not want your cat consuming.

4. Tablet calcium supplements: Tablets offer a middle ground between liquids and powders – they’re easy to administer but don’t require mixing with food or water. However, some tablet calcium supplements can be large and difficult for smaller cats to swallow. Additionally, many tablet forms of calcium are less bioavailable than other forms (meaning that less of the supplement is actually absorbed by the body).

How to select the right calcium supplement for your cat

There are a few things to consider when selecting a calcium supplement for your cat. The first is the form of calcium. Calcium carbonate and calcium citrate are the two most common forms of calcium supplements.

Calcium carbonate is the cheapest and most popular form, but it’s not easily absorbed by the body. Calcium citrate is more expensive, but it’s better absorbed by the body. If your cat is on a special diet or has any health problems, talk to your veterinarian about which form of calcium would be best for her.

The second thing to consider is the amount of calcium in the supplement. The recommended amount of calcium for cats is 500-700 mg per day. Most supplements come in 400 mg tablets or capsules, so you would need to give your cat one or two tablets per day depending on her size and weight.

Finally, you need to consider how you will give your cat the supplement. Some supplements come in powder form that can be mixed with food, while others come in chewable tablets or flavored liquids. Choose a supplement that will be easy for your cat to take so that she gets the full benefits.

Pros and cons of calcium supplementation for cats

There are a few things to consider when thinking about calcium supplementation for your cat. Pros of calcium supplementation can include:

-Improved bone density
-Reduced risk of fractures
-Increased muscle strength

On the other hand, there are also a few potential cons associated with calcium supplementation, including:

-Upset stomach or diarrhea
-Constipation
-Kidney stones (in rare cases)

As always, it’s best to speak with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement regimen for your cat. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and determine if calcium supplementation is right for your feline friend.

When to start giving your cat calcium supplements

As your cat ages, she may start to experience problems with her bones and joints. If your veterinarian recommends giving her calcium supplements, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First, it’s important to start with a lower dose and increase gradually as needed. You don’t want to overdo it and cause gastrointestinal issues.

Second, calcium supplements should be given with food to avoid stomach upset.

Third, if your cat is already taking other medications, make sure to talk to your vet about possible interactions before starting a supplement regimen.

Finally, pay attention to how your cat is doing while taking calcium supplements. If she starts displaying any adverse effects, stop giving them and call your vet right away.

How often to give your cat calcium supplements

As a general rule, calcium supplements should be given to your cat on a monthly basis. However, if your cat is pregnant or nursing, she may need additional calcium. Always check with your veterinarian before giving your cat any type of supplement.

Conclusion

If your cat is not getting enough calcium in their diet, they may need supplements. However, it’s important to speak to your veterinarian before giving your cat any supplements, as they will be able to advise you on the best type and dosage for your cat.

If you’re unsure whether or not your cat needs calcium supplements, consider having them checked out by a vet to be on the safe side.