Joints, nutrition and supplements

Joint disorders such as osteoarthritis are among the most common chronic conditions in dogs and cats, especially in older animals. As pets age, the cartilage in their joints wears down faster, inflammation develops, and mobility decreases. This has a major impact on their quality of life: dogs become stiff and less active, while cats show pain more subtly (jumping less, sleeping more, poorer grooming).

In addition to a healthy weight and appropriate exercise, nutrition and targeted supplements play an important supportive role. Scientific research, including meta-analyses, shows that certain nutrients can reduce the inflammatory response in the joints, help maintain cartilage quality, and improve overall mobility.

Some breeds are extra sensitive

In dogs, large and giant breeds are particularly prone to joint problems due to their build and genetic predisposition. Well-known examples include:

• Labrador Retriever
• Golden Retriever
• German Shepherd
• Rottweiler
• Bernese Mountain Dog
• Great Dane

Breeds such as the French Bulldog, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Australian Shepherd are also affected more frequently.

In cats, joint problems occur more often in:

• Maine Coon (prone to hip dysplasia)
• Persian
• Himalayan
• Siamese
• Scottish Fold (often severe cartilage abnormalities)
• Devon Rex and Abyssinian

Why nutrition is so important

Osteoarthritis is associated with chronic inflammation in the joints. Omega-3 fatty acids (especially EPA and DHA) have a proven anti-inflammatory effect. Building blocks such as glucosamine and chondroitin help support cartilage. Traditional glucosamine-chondroitin supplements can be effective for dogs and cats, but Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, score highly in meta-analyses.

Extra attention to excess weight is crucial, as adipose tissue produces inflammatory substances (adipokines) that worsen joint inflammation.

Recommended nutrition and supplements

BF®Petfood offers targeted solutions for joint problems in both dogs and cats. Our products are based on natural ingredients and often combine several supportive substances.

1. Omega+ Scottish Salmon Oil (for both dog and cat)

• Pure, cold-pressed salmon oil from Scotland.
• Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) with a high content (approximately 18.7% Omega-3).
• Supports joints, reduces inflammation, and promotes a shiny coat, skin health, and digestion.
• Dosage: Dog ±5 ml per 10 kg per day; cat 5 ml per day.
• Ideal as a dressing over food or as a flavor enhancer.

This oil fits perfectly with scientific recommendations for Omega-3 in osteoarthritis.

2. Souplesse (Gluco-Chondro supplement)

Both the Souplesse mix (for dog and cat) and the Souplesse bonbon (for dogs) support the joints:

• Contains glucosamine (from green-lipped mussel), chondroitin (from bovine cartilage), MSM, vitamin C, manganese, and a select blend of natural herbs (including nettle, rosemary, laurel).
• MSM supports the formation of collagen and connective tissue and contributes to flexibility.
• Suitable for dogs and cats of all ages and can be combined with BF® dry food, BF® wet food, BF® meat food, and fresh meat or BARF.
• Dosage: Optimal support 4 g per 10 kg of body weight per day (maintenance dosage is lower).
• Can be used preventively or curatively.

Premium food with joint support

• For dogs: Senior food, Pressed Senior, Puppy (crunchy) and various Adult variants, including Adult Turkey, Lamb & Rice, Adult mini, Sensitive mini which offer support for joint function and mobility with a joint formula — containing salmon oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
• For cats: Senior - Ageing, Adult Fit and Sensitive also have a supportive joint formula with salmon oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin.

In addition to extra support for adult and older animals, these foods also provide necessary support for sensitive animals (hypoallergenic nutrition).

Practical tips for at home

• Combine complete premium food with salmon oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin with Omega-3 (salmon oil) and a joint supplement such as Souplesse (mix or bonbon) for a synergistic effect.
• Ensure an ideal weight — even a few kilos less can make a huge difference for the joints.
• Pay attention to signals: stiffness when starting to move in dogs, or less jumping or grooming in cats.
• Start with good base nutrition and add targeted supplements. In case of serious complaints, always consult your veterinarian.

Summary

With the right combination of Omega-3 rich nutrition and joint supplements with building blocks such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, you can support the quality of life of your dog or cat with joint problems. BF®Petfood offers high-quality, natural, and easily combinable products that align with both scientific insights and the practice of everyday animal care.

For more information, email: info@bfpetfood.nl or use the contact page.