Raising healthy puppies and kittens requires more than just food — but not all supplements are beneficial. WERVIC’s veterinary nutritionists explain which supplements are essential, and which can be skipped or even harmful.

1. Milk Replacer — NECESSARY for Orphaned or Weaning Pets

Mother’s milk is ideal, but pet-specific milk replacer is essential for:

• Orphaned puppies/kittens
• Pets separated from mother before 4–6 weeks
• Weak or underweight young animals

Never use human milk or cow’s milk — they cause severe diarrhea.

2. Probiotics — HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Probiotics support gut health, reduce diarrhea, improve digestion, and strengthen immunity.They are especially important for:

• Post-deworming recovery
• Diet transitions
• Stressful situations
• Young pets with sensitive stomachs

WERVIC recommends species-specific probiotics with proven strains for long-term health.

3. Calcium — USUALLY UNNECESSARY

Most commercial puppy/kitten food already contains balanced calcium.Extra calcium can be dangerous, causing skeletal deformities, joint issues, or organ stress.Only supplement calcium under veterinary supervision for specific medical conditions.

4. Vitamins — Usually Not Needed

Complete pet food provides all necessary vitamins. Over-supplementation may lead to toxicity.

Final Recommendations from WERVIC

• Must-have: Pet milk replacer (if needed), probiotics
• Usually unnecessary: Extra calcium, multivitamins
• Always avoid: Human supplements, unregulated products

At WERVIC, we believe proper nutrition supports strong immunity and steady growth. Choose science-backed, pet-specific supplements for the healthiest start in life.