ByPetMD Vet Advisory Panel
Published Jul. 28, 2026
All products in this article have been reviewed by our trusted vets and experts. PetMD is owned by Chewy.
Cat supplements can be used to support a variety of wellness needs, such as digestive health, joint health, and hairball management.
The best cat supplements come from reputable brands with strong quality-control practices, contain high-quality, research-backed ingredients, and are easy to give.
To help you sort through a crowded shelf, our panel of veterinarians named their top picks across a variety of categories. As always, talk with your own vet before adding any supplement to your cat’s routine.
What To Consider When Buying Cat Supplements
Supplements can vary widely in their effectiveness and quality. To make sure you’re giving your cat something you can trust—and your cat will actually take, our vets suggest keeping the following factors in mind before you buy.
Quality Control and Safety Standards
Look for brands that invest in research and quality testing. One helpful marker is theNational Animal Supplement Council (NASC)Quality Seal, which signals that a company meets independent standards for safety and manufacturing. However, there are plenty of reputable supplement manufacturers that do not participate in the NASC program, so you can also look to a brand’s research and quality-control practices too.
Ease of Administration
Supplements come as powders, liquids, gels, capsules, soft chews, and even topical spot-on treatments. The best option is generally the one your cat will reliably accept.
Powders and capsules (when opened) mix well into food, while gels and chews often have flavors and textures that resemble treats. All could be ideal for food-motivated cats. Topicals bypass picky palates entirely.
Evidence-Based Formulations
Check that the active ingredients have research supporting their intended use. For example, glucosamine and chondroitin are well known for providing joint support.
Your Cat’s Individual Needs
Your cat’s age, diet, and overall health all play a role in what supplements they may benefit from, as well as those you may want to avoid. Your veterinarian can help you make the best choice considering your cat’s unique health history.
How We Chose the Best Cat Supplements
This list of the best cat supplements was meticulously curated by a panel of veterinarians who are employed by Chewy, the publisher of PetMD. They were asked to choose the best cat supplements in their honest opinion, across multiple categories based on the following:
- Quality and combination of ingredients
- Backed by science-based research
- Brand reputation
- Whether it has earned the NASC Quality Seal
- Ease of administration
Opinions and product recommendations in this article belong solely to the review panel of vets and animal health experts. Manufacturers and vendors cannot buy placement in Vet Verified content, or exert influence on our panelists as they evaluate products.
Our sole goal with this program is to provide pet parents with the information they need to make the best decision for their pets.
Best Cat Supplements FAQs
Do vets recommend supplements for cats?
Veterinarians sometimes recommend supplements for cats based on the pet’s overall health, age, and current medical conditions. Many cats on a complete, balanced diet get the nutrients they need from food alone. A vet may suggest a supplement for a specific need, such as joint, digestive, urinary, or calming support. Always check with your veterinarian before starting one.
Should my cat take a multivitamin?
Most cats eating a complete and balanced diet do not need a multivitamin, since these foods are formulated to meet their nutritional needs. Cat vitamins or a targeted supplement may help in specific situations, but your veterinarian is the best person to decide whether your cat would benefit.
What supplements should I give my cat?
The supplements that may benefit your cat depend on their age, diet, and overall health. Common options support digestion, joints, hydration, skin and coat, calm behavior, and heart health. Talk with your veterinarian about which type of supplement support, if any, is best for your cat.
Can I give my cat a human supplement?
You should not give your cat a human supplement. Supplements designed for humans can contain ingredients, flavors, or doses that are not safe or appropriate for cats. Stick to products formulated specifically for cats, and check with your veterinarian before administering.
