Supplement labels are written to sell, but they're also full of useful information — if you know where to look. Here's how I read a label before anything goes into my pets' bowls, whether it's ours or someone else's.
1. Find the active ingredients and their amounts
Pet supplements usually list "active ingredients per serving" with an amount for each. This is the most important part of the label. If you can't tell how much of something is in a serving, you can't compare products or check the amount with your vet.
2. Be cautious of "proprietary blends"
A proprietary blend lists a total weight and a group of ingredients, but not how much of each. Sometimes that's to protect a recipe; often it hides that the expensive ingredient is a sprinkle. We list every ingredient amount on every FurHealth label for this reason.
3. Read the inactive ingredients
These are the binders, flavors and preservatives. In chews, some are necessary — something has to hold the chew together. Look for recognizable ingredients and natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E). Watch for artificial colors, which do nothing for your pet, and for anything your pet is sensitive to.
4. Check the serving size and the math
A jar that looks cheaper may simply have fewer servings, or a serving size that's unrealistic for your pet's weight. Divide the price by the number of days it will last for your pet. Our dosage calculator does this for FurHealth products.
5. Look for source details
- For mushrooms: fruiting body vs. mycelium on grain.
- For glucosamine: whether it's from shellfish (important for allergies).
- For fish or mussel ingredients: species and origin.
6. Watch for red-flag claims
In the U.S., supplements for animals generally can't claim to treat, cure or prevent disease. Phrases like "cures arthritis," "eliminates anxiety" or "kills cancer cells" are red flags. Responsible brands use language like "supports" or "helps maintain" — and include a reminder to talk to your veterinarian.
7. Make sure there's a real company behind it
A label should list a company name and a way to reach them. A real address and phone number, a clear return policy and a lot or batch number are all signs of a business that stands behind its products. You can reach us at (781) 226-8208 or admin@furhealth.global — we're happy to answer questions about any ingredient.
Bring the label to your next vet visit. Your veterinarian can tell you whether the amounts make sense for your pet, and whether anything might interact with their current medications.
