Last Updated: 19/05/2026
Do pets need supplements in winter? Here's what the vets actually say
The honest answer is: it depends. Most healthy pets get everything they need from a good diet. But for joints, skin, or stress, the right supplement can make a real difference. Here's how to know when it's worth it.
Author: Dr Angie Armstrong BVSc
Reading Time: 4 minutes - short read
When the temperature drops, you might find yourself reaching for the vitamin D capsules. But what about your pet, do they need supplements in Winter?
The honest answer is: it depends. Most healthy dogs and cats get everything they need from an appropriate diet, Winter or otherwise. Supplements become beneficial when a pet has a specific health need that diet alone may not fully address. Think of supplements as a targeted support, tailored to the unique needs of each pet.
When supplements are beneficial for pets
A quality, complete and balanced diet is formulated to deliver all the vitamins, minerals and macronutrients a healthy adult pet needs. This is a great foundation for their health and in some circumstances may be all a healthy pet requires.
Supplements move from nice-to-have to genuinely useful when there's a specific gap to fill. Pets most likely to benefit include:
- Senior pets (typically over 7 years, or over 5 years for large breeds)
- Pets with arthritis or mobility issues
- Pets with dry, flaky or itchy skin in colder months
- Pets prone to anxiety during storms or unsettled weather
- Pets recovering from illness or have a health condition
Joint support in colder months
Cold and damp weather can worsen the discomfort of arthritis. If your senior dog is slower to rise on chilly mornings, or your cat is suddenly less keen on jumping up, their joints may need extra support. Cold weather can exacerbate joint pain or stiffness due to changes in barometric pressure. Lower barometric pressure, which occurs often before storms or cold fronts, causes expansion in the tissues, tendons and muscles surrounding the pet’s joints. In those cats and dogs with arthritis this expansion can cause increased swelling and pain and exaggerated symptoms.
The three ingredients with the strongest veterinary research behind them are omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), with strong evidence in both dogs and cats; green-lipped mussel, which combines omega-3s, glycosaminoglycans and minerals for cartilage and inflammation support; and glucosamine and chondroitin, the building blocks of cartilage, widely used in multi-ingredient formulas.
Joint supplements work best when started early such as before significant arthritis develops and used consistently year-round, not just in winter.
Read more in our articles - Your guide to pet supplements and The best joint supplements for dogs
Skin and coat health in Winter
Winter air is drier, both outdoors and inside with heating systems running. That can leave skin flaky and coats dull or itchy. This can be especially seen in those pets who already have sensitive skin.
- Omega-3 fatty acids have strong evidence for improving skin barrier health, hydration and coat condition in both dogs and cats. They have a crucial role in the formation of skin and also play a part in regulating inflammation in the body.
Keep your pet's coat well-groomed and brushed daily. If your pet has a thick fur or sheds excessively, you might like to try a de-shedding brush such as the Furminator.
Moisturising their coat with a deeply hydrating conditioner can prevent their skin from drying out. Opt for an oatmeal conditioner such as aloveen to help soothe and replenish dry skin.
Calming supplements
Cold, stormy weather can trigger anxiety in some pets, particularly those sensitive to wind, rain or thunder. If your pet becomes restless, vocal, clingy or hides during storms, calming supplements may help.
Look for evidence-based ingredients including L-theanine, alpha-casozepine and L-tryptophan as they support calmness and relaxation without sedation. They suit mild to moderate stress; severe anxiety needs a vet conversation and thorough work up. In addition to calming supplements for dogs and cats ,other aids may include calming diets or treats, pheromones (Adaptil and Feliway), calming clothing and training.
Read more in our vet article - How to calm an anxious pet
Immune support
Healthy pets on a balanced diet generally don't need a dedicated "immune booster." That said, overall immune health can be supported through omega-3s, antioxidants, vitamin E, and probiotics.
The gut-immune connection is key here: less time outdoors and changes to a pet's routine can quietly impact how well their immune system functions, and cold stress can make it more sluggish than usual. A large portion of a pet's immune system lives in the gut, so keeping digestion healthy has a flow-on effect for overall wellbeing. They're especially useful during winter when stress-triggered digestive upsets are more common, think holiday travel, boarding, or a disrupted routine.
Targeted immune supplementation is most worth considering for senior pets, those with chronic illness, those experiencing stress or under specific vet guidance.
How to choose a pet supplement
When choosing a supplements for your pet there are some considerations you may want to make. It is also recommended to consider the type of supplement your pet may prefer such as a powder, a tablet or an oral liquid. Here are some tips to consider when choosing a pet supplement.
- Look for evidence-based ingredients (such as those mentioned in this article)
- Check for veterinary research or formulation backing
- Be wary of unverified miracle claims
- Always talk to your vet before adding a supplement, especially if your pet is on medication
FAQs
Not sure if your pet needs a supplement? For general advice the Pet Circle vet team is available online or for more personalised guidance, book a visit with your regular vet.
With the right care, Winter doesn't have to be a season of discomfort.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Tue May 19 2026
Written by Dr Angie Armstrong BVScDr Angie Armstrong BVSc
BVSc
Dr Angie Armstrong graduated from the University of Queensland in 2008 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and worked for a number of years in small animal clinics across South East Queensland.
