Over 7 million dogs and cats see their vet annually for itchy skin according to data from Zoetis. This common, uncomfortable issue can have many causes, from food sensitivities to fleas to skin infections.

Not only can itchy skin make your pet miserable, it can also lead to secondary infections, hair loss, and increased inflammation. In honor of Itchy Pet Awareness Month, learn about five supplements that can help relieve itchy skin in pets, best used to stop the itch-scratch cycle in conjunction with treating the underlying cause.

1.Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly supplemented in the form of fish oil chews or liquids for pets. These polyunsaturated fats, which include alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), can help relieve inflammation, support the immune system, and promote skin healing. An omega-3 fatty acid supplement for pets can be beneficial for dogs and cats of all types of ages, though you’ll want to check in with your veterinarian before offering to a pet with a chronic condition or that takes medication.

2.Probiotics

You may have heard of probiotics when it comes to boosting your pet’s digestive health. Probiotics do in fact work by helping to balance the gut's microbiome, restoring “good” bacteria that helps break down food. But did you know that most of the immune system is located in the gut? Itching begins in the immune system, often caused by the body’s reaction to a substance like an ingredient in your pet’s food, an environmental trigger like dust or pollen, or flea bites. By supporting your pet’s gut health, you’ll in turn help promote immune system function and itch relief. Probiotic supplements for pets contain species-specific strains of beneficial bacteria to support your dog or cat’s gut health.

3.Colostrum

Bovine colostrum or “first milk,” is a rich fluid produced by cows in the first few days following the birth of a calf before their regular milk comes in. Colostrum is an excellent source of antibodies and probiotics that promote beneficial gut flora and healthy immune function. It also contains proteins that may help repair skin inflammation. The supplement is also said to help treat leaky gut syndrome, a condition in which food particles may surpass the gut lining into the bloodstream, causing itch and inflammation. Bovine colostrum is found in Dermabliss Allergy & Immune Chews and Zesty Paws Aller-Immune Bites.

4.Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is essentially apple juice that has been fermented to produce its primary, health-benefiting component acetic acid. Acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it potentially helpful for pets with itchy skin associated with bacterial or yeast infections of the skin, both when applied as a topical dilution and when supplemented into your pet’s diet. Apple cider vinegar is also a good source of prebiotics that help feed beneficial gut flora. Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar “with the mother,” contains these beneficial compounds, but can be difficult to add to your pet’s diet due to its acidity and strong taste. Instead, try a chewable supplement for pets that contains apple cider vinegar as a therapeutic ingredient.

5.Yucca

Yucca schidigera is a plant extract traditionally used in Native American medicine. Not to be confused with the potato-like root vegetable, yucca schidigera extract is derived from the leaves of a desert plant native to Mexico and the Southwestern United States. Yucca schidigera contains a compound called saponin that mimics the anti-inflammatory functions of steroids, making it potentially therapeutic for pets with itchy, inflamed skin. As an added bonus, this ingredient is commonly added to pet foods because it is known to help make poop less stinky by binding to ammonia. Yucca schidigera for pets can be added daily to your pet’s food or water.

Relieve Itchy Skin in Pets… For Good!

While the above supplements have anecdotal and science-backed evidence of helping relieve itchy skin in pets, it can take weeks to see a difference in your pet’s symptoms. What’s more, without treating the underlying cause, your pet’s skin may continue to flare up. If your pet’s itchy skin persists, or if you notice other symptoms like hair loss, painful skin lesions, hot spots, make an appointment with your veterinarian or make an online televet appointment today.

VISION

Every pet deserves to live a long, happy, healthy life.