As dogs and cats grow older, their needs can change. Supplements may be useful when they match a real need, but they are not a shortcut to good health or a replacement for veterinary care. The best starting point is a senior check-up, a complete and balanced diet suited to your pet, and a conversation with your vet before adding anything new.

Start with your pet, not the supplement shelf

Age alone does not tell you which supplement a pet needs. Your vet can review diet, weight, mobility, medications and health history, and help decide whether a supplement is appropriate. This matters especially for pets with kidney, heart, liver or digestive conditions, and for those taking regular medication. Never give a human supplement or a product intended for another species unless your vet confirms it is safe.

Introduce just one new product at a time, follow its label and your vet’s advice, and keep an eye on appetite, stool and behaviour. Stop and contact your vet if you notice a reaction. Don’t guess a dose based on another pet’s size or age.

For older dogs: focus on comfort and everyday function

Changes in movement, reluctance to jump or difficulty getting comfortable deserve a vet assessment. If you and your vet decide to explore nutritional support for mobility, options in our current range include NAS Freeze Formed Joint Health Bites and Green Lipped Mussel 100g. Check the product label for suitability and serving directions, and ask your vet whether either fits your dog’s needs and current diet.

For dogs whose vet recommends additional skin and coat support, NAS Omega Oil Salmon, 500ml is one option to discuss. Follow the label and ask your vet before combining it with other oils or supplements.

Browse our dog supplements for more options.

For older cats: keep it feline-specific

Cats can be particularly sensitive to ingredients and changes in food, so use only products clearly suitable for cats and confirm with your vet if your cat has a health condition or takes medication. If hairballs are an issue, you could ask your vet whether Omega Oil Cat Hairball 200ml is appropriate. It is a targeted option, not a general treatment for vomiting or other digestive symptoms.

Browse our cat supplements for more options.

For both dogs and cats, a sudden change in thirst, urination, appetite, weight, toileting or energy is a reason to book a check-up, not to try a supplement first. Older pets do best with regular monitoring, a suitable diet, comfortable routines and products chosen for their individual health.

A simple checklist before you buy

• Ask your vet what concern the supplement is meant to address.
• Check species suitability, ingredients and directions on the label.
• Tell your vet about every medication, food and supplement your pet already has.
• Reassess whether it is helping, and don’t keep using it automatically.

Product availability can change. The linked individual products were active and had stock available when this article was prepared.