Joints, nutrition and supplements

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

In addition to a healthy weight and adapted 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 the quality of the cartilage, 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
• Danish Hound

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

In cats, joint problems are more common 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 accompanied by 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 the cartilage. Traditional glucosamine-chondroitin supplements can be effective in dogs and cats, but Omega-3 fatty acids score particularly well in meta-analyses.

Extra attention to overweight is crucial, because fat 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 dogs and cats)

• 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, 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 the food or as a flavour enhancer.

This oil perfectly matches the scientific recommendations for Omega-3 in osteoarthritis.

2. Souplesse (Gluco-Chondro supplement)

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

• Contains glucosamine (from green-lipped mussel), chondroitin (from beef cartilage), MSM, vitamin C, manganese, and a select mix of natural herbs (including nettle, rosemary, and bay leaf).
• MSM supports the formation of collagen and connective tissue and contributes to suppleness.
• 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 (lower maintenance dosage).
• Can be used preventively or curatively.

3. Premium food with joint support

• For dogs: Senior food, Pressed Senior, Puppy (crunchy), and various Adult variants, including Adult Turkey, Lamb & Rice, Adult mini, and Sensitive mini that 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 the necessary support for sensitive animals (hypoallergenic food).

Practical tips for 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.
• Watch for signs: stiffness when getting up in dogs, jumping less or poorer grooming in cats.
• Start with a good basic diet and add targeted supplements. Always consult your veterinarian for serious complaints.

Summary

With the right combination of Omega-3-rich food 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 pet care.

In our shop, under 'Problem & Advice', you can see which food or supplements are suitable for your dog and/or cat that support the joints: Joints in dogs and cats: recognize the signs – BF Petfood

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