Questions & Answers – Dogs & Cats

Getting up stiffly after lying down is one of the earliest signs that the joints need support – often long before a dog visibly limps. Typically, the first steps are laboured, then the dog "walks it off". Acting early is what matters: weight control, adapted exercise and targeted nutrient supply (e.g. marine omega-3 fatty acids) are among the building blocks that can support joint function. If the signs persist or worsen, your dog should be examined at the veterinary practice.

Unfortunately not. Hereditary predispositions such as hip or elbow dysplasia can show up in the very first year of life, and wear develops over years – quietly and gradually. That is why joint care does not begin with the first limp, but well before it. Forward-thinking owners support their dog's joints while they are still healthy.

A great deal: even around 10% above the ideal weight noticeably increases the constant load on cartilage and joints – with every single step. Weight control is the single most effective measure for the joints that lies in your own hands. Supplementary nutrients are the second building block, not a substitute for the first.

Skin and coat are a mirror of nutrition. Common causes are parasites and allergies – but also an insufficient supply of essential fatty acids, which the body cannot produce itself. With persistent itching or bald patches, have it checked by a vet first; for shine and skin balance, fatty acid supply plays a central role.

A sensitive digestive tract is closely linked to the gut microbiome – the community of beneficial microorganisms that help regulate digestion and the immune system. Change food slowly, reduce stress, and support the gut flora in a targeted way: those are the three levers. With persistent diarrhoea, blood in the stool or weight loss, please go to the veterinary practice immediately.

A large part of the immune system resides in the gut. A balanced diet, sufficient sleep, exercise – and in research, certain nutrient groups such as beta-glucans from yeast are additionally being studied intensively for their immunomodulating properties. Recurring infections, however, should always be checked by a vet as well.

Cats descend from desert animals and have a weakly developed sense of thirst – their ancestors covered their fluid needs through prey. Indoors, with dry food, this quickly leads to chronic mild under-hydration, which strains the kidneys over time. Wet food, several water points, a drinking fountain – and targeted support of kidney function: these are the levers you can use early.

The insidious part: kidney issues often develop completely unnoticed over months to years. Early hints can be increased drinking, more frequent trips to the litter box, declining appetite or a duller coat. From around the age of 7, vets recommend regular check-ups with blood and urine values – the best investment in a long cat life. Prevention and targeted nutrient support ideally begin before symptoms appear.

The rule of thumb: a cat needs around 40–50 ml of fluid per kg of body weight daily – including the moisture in food. Wet food supplies the lion's share of that; a drinking fountain additionally encourages many cats, because flowing water is more attractive. Watch what your cat prefers to drink from, and offer several spots – never right next to the food bowl.

Occasional hairballs are normal in cats, especially during shedding season. Frequent vomiting is not – it can hide food intolerances, digestive problems or illnesses that need veterinary attention. Regular brushing and well-functioning digestion noticeably reduce hairball formation.

The honest answer: tablets and powders often fail with cats due to their fine nose and even finer will. Liquid supplements with a neutral to attractive taste, mixed into wet food in just a few drops, have the highest acceptance. That is exactly why we at PetElixir™ rely on the liquid elixir form – a few drops are enough.

From about seven years a cat counts as mature, from eleven as a senior. Metabolism, kidneys, joints and the immune system change – often without visible signs, because cats hide weakness masterfully. Annual check-ups at the vet, adapted feeding and targeted nutrient support help extend the active years.

Please don't. Human supplements are dosed for human needs and can contain additives that are unsuitable or even risky for dogs or cats. The good news: the technology behind modern human supplements – liposomal encapsulation – is now available developed specifically for animals. That is exactly what NanoLipoX™ is.

Honest answer: not always. A healthy, young animal on high-quality complete food is provided for. But there are life stages and situations in which needs rise or targeted support makes sense: growth, age, stress, recovery, shedding season – or when the first everyday signs appear, such as stiff rising or drinking little. Then it is not the amount of additives that counts, but whether they arrive. Keyword: bioavailability.

Three reasons: first, acceptance – hardly any animal notices a few drops under its food, while tablets often become a daily battle. Second, precise dosing – with a liquid, the amount can be matched exactly to body weight. Third, the technology – nanoliposomes are a liquid system; only in this form does the protective shell stay intact until it is needed.