There are many superpower ingredients on the market today. Let’s unpack five that are known to support the health of your pets’ skin and coat!
Today’s pet food market is full of companies boasting a diverse range of recipes with different health benefits. Given all the options, it can be difficult to know which product is the best for your fur pal. But we all want to make the right nutritional choices for our dogs and cats, especially in terms of skin and coat care. After all, the health of your pet’s skin and fur isn’t just about appearance – it’s a reflection of his overall wellness. To help you select the right food, this article breaks down five ingredients that promote clear skin and a shiny, thick coat!
#1. Zinc
Zinc is one of the most important minerals for your pet. Essential for helping to support healthy skin, hair and mucous membranes, a lack of zinc can lead to crusty, dry, flaky, itchy, reddened and raised patches of skin (known as dermatitis) on your pet’s face, paws or near the groin. Zinc deficiency is directly related to diet, so providing your dog or cat with leafy greens or poultry such as turkey will help him flourish.
#2. Biotin or Vitamin H
Biotin is an active ingredient in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and protein, and the formation of fatty acids. Having biotin in your pet’s diet can help improve skin conditions such as dermatitis, skin lesions and alopecia, and can reduce his chances of having a dull coat, brittle hair, and hair loss. Look for ways to add biotin-rich whole foods into your pets’ diet. Liver, eggs, green leafy vegetables, or sardines are chock full of this healthy vitamin.
#3. Vitamin D
Vitamin D does more than strengthen your pet’s skeleton. It promotes a healthy heart, connective tissue, and skin. Found in oily fish and liver, this vitamin is necessary for the proper absorption and use of calcium as well as phosphorus.
#4. Riboflavin or Vitamin B2
An important vitamin for the digestion of fats and carbohydrate, riboflavin is also vital for a healthy skin and coat. A key nutrient for your pet’s overall growth and development, a sign of riboflavin deficiency is general body weakness, hair loss and dermatitis. Riboflavin is a mineral that can be found in both meat and plants, so you should have no problem ensuring that your furry friend get enough of it through diet.
#5. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for healthy bones, teeth, hair and skin follicles according to the NASC. It can be found in liver, fish liver oil and egg yolks, as well as sweet potato, carrots and kale.
Being proactive and feeding your pets a fully balanced diet with nutrient-rich ingredients is crucial to maintaining their skin and coat health. But how do you know if your pet food is the right one? If you’re not sure, read over the label and compare it with this list! If you’re shopping for a new food, reach for one that’s high-quality and transparent. It should meet the nutritional requirements listed by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AFFCO) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so that you know it’s created with your pet’s health in mind!
