Supportive Supplements To Keep Your Cat Healthy

By: Jenny Haun, Rescuer & Foster Parent

As a foster and rescuer, cat and kitten emergencies come in all the time, and in some cases, you must act quickly, especially when there's no immediate vet. I base all of my knowledge on experience and personal research. I'm not a licensed veterinarian or vet technician. Remember, your best resource is to contact your trusted veterinarian. Also, I'm not associated with any of these product manufacturers. I know what works and what I like. Now with that covered, let's talk about supplements/treatments.

Fortiflora, Proviable, S boulardii: When a cat or kitten arrives with diarrhea, starting probiotics is one of our first steps. We give probiotics to correct gastrointestinal issues, but some people use probiotics as a preventative supplement to maintain a healthy and balanced GI system. In addition to diarrhea, probiotics can ease symptoms such as vomiting, stomach irritation, and constipation. Fortiflora is what I most often use (although I keep all three on hand) because 90% of the cats and kittens I've cared for eat it like it's some magical delight. That can also be helpful if you have a kitty that isn't eating well. If I don't see an improvement with the Fortiflora, I switch to Proviable or S. boulardii.

Firm Up: Pumpkin is the most commonly used supplement when a cat struggles with gastrointestinal issues. It's funny that you'd use the same thing for diarrhea and constipation, but pumpkin can help in both situations Pumpkin is a good source of fiber. I've found that most cats and kittens say, "Yuck, pumpkin!" "Firm Up" is a pumpkin flake that's easily mixed with your cat's wet food, which the cat will often eat.

Terramycin: If a cat or kitten presents with watery eyes or discharge, and I'm confident it's nothing more than the beginning of an Upper Respiratory Infection (URI), or if a veterinarian isn't immediately available, I start Terramycin. It's an over-the-counter ointment and intervention that can determine whether a cat loses their vision. You can purchase Terramycin at farm stores such as Tractor Supply I've found the best price at Fatman's Doghouse. So, when I can wait for the shipment, that's where I purchase.

Nutri-Cal: This is a high-calorie supplement with additional vitamins and minerals We use this in cats and kittens when they need a little extra boost to get over the hump during an illness or post-surgery.

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Karo syrup: Fading Kitten Syndrome (FKS) primarily occurs in neonates. Many unknowns exist on why FKS happens, but watching for specific symptoms can help you avoid any issues We use Karo syrup to help kittens pull out of FKS, and you can purchase it at most grocery stores. The Kitten Lady is the expert on all things for neonates, so check out her page for more on FKS.

Rebound: Although I've been in rescue for seven years, I recently learned about this product a year ago. Rebound is a recovery formula I've used with sick cats, kittens, and kitties that don't have a good appetite (such as post-surgery). This formula provides vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, fatty acids, and amino acids. I can't tell you how many kittens I've saved because I had Rebound on hand.

Kitten Lyte: Think Pedialyte for cats and kittens. Whenever I'm concerned that a cat or kitten is compromised or needs an extra boost, especially with diarrhea or vomiting, I pull out the "Kitten Lyte." It's a powder you mix; most cats drink it like a treat.

Hydra Care: This is another product I recently learned about but have never used. Because I've never used it, I'll give you the details from Proplan's website: "Hydra Care" increases total liquid intake, promotes hydration, and decreases urine-specific gravity.

Unless otherwise specified, I order all these products from Amazon because of free and fast shipping through Amazon Prime. You may be able to find a lower price through other sources In rescue, w but small wallets, and some of these prod don't have other options. I want to say it you have a cat or kitten experiencing a he your trusted veterinarian. This informatio emergent vet care.

Athena is the little eight-week-old kitten i found her in the neighbor's house and ask 72 hours apart. Athena received Terramyc kitten food and lots of love You'll agree w