Question 1

What is in  Dr Bec’s supplements for cats, and why?

Accepted Answer

Each and every ingredient has been selected based on robust, published scientific evidence - for their specific benefits for cats.
Each ingredient is active, pure, at therapeutic doses, and complementary to other ingredients.
There are no preservatives, colours or flavours, and all ingredients are sustainable, human food grade, and quality controlled.
All benefits are based on high-quality studies (prioritising studies in cats- over studies in dogs, humans or lab mice).

Question 2

ANXIETY+ Health Support

Accepted Answer

It supports calmness and emotional balance during stressful times, like introducing new pets, vet visits, travel, cattery stays or changes at home - without a sedating effect.
 
What’s in it and how does it work?
Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) - Helps to promote production of calming neurotransmitters. Note: not to be confused with the medication, gabapentin.
L-Tryptophan & L-Theanine - Supports serotonin production to balance mood and reduce anxiety
Cat-specific fibre (hydrolysed collagen peptides) - Supports a healthy microbiome, and an optimal gut-brain axis, to reduce anxiety
Green-Lipped Mussel - Generalised anti-inflammatory effects, to improve overall health

Question 3

GUT+ Health Support

Accepted Answer

What does the Gut supplement support?
It promotes a healthy microbiome, improves digestion, and helps regulate bowel movements. It can also reduce hairballs (especially in longhaired cats) and support immune function.
 
What’s inside and why?
Organic Psyllium - Prebiotic that regulates stool consistency (for constipation and diarrhoea); reduces hairballs and feeds the gut microbiome
S. boulardii (Live Probiotic) - Supports gut microbiome balance, with live therapeutic dose of 5 billion CFU
Vitamin B12 - Often low in cats with gut issues, improves nutrient absorption and energy levels
Green-Lipped Mussel - Reduces gut inflammation and feeds healthy gut bacteria
Hydrolysed collagen - Prebiotic that supports the integrity and function of the intestinal wall, and acts as the perfect species-specific fibre source (the one cats evolved to use!)

Question 4

Hydrolysed collagen peptides (chicken sternum derived)

Accepted Answer

Note that the following are not intended as health claims or veterinary advice, but rather, are based on published research papers.

Joint Support & Cartilage Repair
Hydrolysed type 2 collagen, derived from chicken sternum, is beneficial for cat joint health as it provides easily digestible peptides that are rich in amino acids (like glycine, proline, hydroxyproline). These are essential building blocks for repairing cartilage and connective tissue that support healthy joints and bones. In a controlled study on cats with osteoarthritis, a diet supplemented with hydrolysed collagen significantly improved mobility and reduced pain over 13 weeks, whereas cats on a placebo diet showed worsening symptoms [1]. Research suggests hydrolysed chicken collagen can help maintain joint health and flexibility in cats by supporting the natural regeneration of cartilage [2].

Gut Health (Emerging Research)
Preliminary research indicates that chicken sternum-derived collagen might also benefit the feline gut. An in vitro (test tube) study using cat gut bacteria found that hydrolysed collagen can be fermented to produce butyrate and other short-chain fatty acids, which serve as critical energy sources for intestinal cells [3]. This study suggests that collagen peptides could act as a cat-appropriate dietary fibre, helping to nourish the gut microbiome and promote a healthy intestinal lining in cats… which is especially since cats are obligate carnivores and have evolved to utilise animal-based fibre sources. Animal-derived collagen acts like dietary fibre for cats- who knew?

[1] Lascelles, B.D.X. et al. (2010) ‘Evaluation of a therapeutic diet for feline degenerative joint disease.’, Journal of veterinary internal medicine, 24(3), pp. 487–495. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1939-1676.2010.0495.x

[2] Lefort-Holguin, M. et al. (2024) ‘Efficacy and Safety of a Diet Enriched with EPA and DHA, Turmeric Extract and Hydrolysed Collagen in Management of Naturally Occurring Osteoarthritis in Cats:  A Prospective, Randomised, Blinded, Placebo- and Time-Controlled Study.’, Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 14(22). Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14223298

[3] Butowski, C.F. et al. (2022) ‘In Vitro Assessment of Hydrolysed Collagen Fermentation Using Domestic Cat (Felis catus) Faecal Inocula’, Animals, 12(4). Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12040498

Question 5

Green-Lipped Mussel (Perna canaliculus)

Accepted Answer

Note that the following are not intended as health claims or veterinary advice, but rather, are based on published research papers.

Anti-Inflammatory & Joint Mobility
Green-lipped mussel (GLM), a shellfish native to New Zealand, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA), glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and other anti-inflammatory nutrients. These compounds have been shown to reduce joint inflammation and pain. In cats with osteoarthritis, GLM supplements are associated with improvements in arthritis scores, reduced joint swelling, and less pain during movement [4]. Notably, feline studies report that arthritic cats given diets or supplements containing green-lipped mussel extract show better mobility (e.g. ease of jumping and climbing) and increased activity compared to untreated controls. The omega-3s in GLM likely contribute to these benefits by lubricating joints and reducing inflammation, much like fish oil, while natural chondroitin-like compounds and GAGs support cartilage health [4].

Rapid Relief
Some research (including multi-ingredient trials) suggests GLM can start improving joint function within days to a few weeks [6]. One study found that by 4 weeks, cats on a GLM-containing supplement played more and performed daily activities (like grooming and using stairs) more comfortably than those on placebo. This indicates GLM may provide relatively quick relief for mild mobility issues.

A 2022 study reported enhanced mobility and activity in cats given GLM as part of a joint supplement regimen [7]. Additionally, Cornell University’s veterinary resources note that GLM’s combinations of omega-3s and glycosaminoglycans help support cartilage and reduce inflammation in pets.

Tip: for the health of your cat and the planet, please make sure your GLM supplement is sustainable and certified as being sourced from New Zealand. Some supplements may claim to contain GLM, though may in fact have other mussel species from South America or Asia, of dubious quality and efficacy. Dr Bec’s human food grade GLM is purchased only from verified sustainable New Zealand sources.

[4] Johnson, K.A., Lee, A.H. and Swanson, K.S. (2020) ‘Nutrition and nutraceuticals in the changing management of osteoarthritis for dogs and cats.’, Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 256(12), pp. 1335–1341. Available at: https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.256.12.1335

[5] Eason, C.T. et al. (2018) ‘GreenshellTM Mussels: A Review of Veterinary Trials and Future Research Directions.’, Veterinary sciences, 5(2). Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci5020036

[6] Eckert, T. et al. (2021) ‘Efficacy of Chondroprotective Food Supplements Based on Collagen Hydrolysate and Compounds Isolated from Marine Organisms.’, Marine drugs, 19(10). Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/md19100542

[7] Corbee, R.J. (2022) ‘The efficacy of a nutritional supplement containing green-lipped mussel, curcumin and blackcurrant leaf extract in dogs and cats with osteoarthritis.’, Veterinary medicine and science, 8(3), pp. 1025–1035. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.779

Question 6

L-Theanine

Accepted Answer

Note that the following are not intended as health claims or veterinary advice, but rather, are based on published research papers.

Promotes Relaxation & Balanced Mood
L-theanine is an amino acid (naturally found in green tea leaves) known for its relaxing, anxiety-reducing effects. It works by increasing the production of calming neurochemicals in the brain, including GABA and possibly serotonin and dopamine, without causing sedation. In cats, L-theanine has been tested as a nutraceutical to manage stress. An open-label field study on 33 cats with anxiety-related behaviors found that a daily L-theanine supplement significantly improved signs of stress within 2 weeks, with even greater improvement after 4 weeks [11]. By Day 30 of supplementation, 91% of the cats showed a reduction in their overall stress scores, and over two-thirds of the cats had at least a 50% reduction in specific anxiety behaviors. Owners reported fewer stress indicators like inappropriate urination (peeing outside the litter box/spraying), nervous aggression, and hypervigilance.

Calming Without Drowsiness
One advantage noted was that L-theanine helped calm the cats without making them lethargic. Cats remained alert and playful, just with less of the undesirable stress behaviors. This non-sedating calmness has also been observed in veterinary medicine: L-theanine fosters a state of relaxed alertness (often attributed to increased alpha-wave activity in the brain) rather than outright sleepiness [12]. This makes it suitable for long-term use in anxious cats or for situational stress (such as travel, introductions of new pets, new cats in the neighborhood, changes in the home, cattery visits, etc).

[11] Dramard, V. et al. (2018) ‘Effect of l-theanine tablets in reducing stress-related emotional signs in cats: an open-label field study’, Irish Veterinary Journal, 71(1), p. 21. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13620-018-0130-4

[12] Fan, Z. et al. (2023) ‘Dietary Strategies for Relieving Stress in Pet Dogs and Cats.’, Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 12(3). Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12030545

Question 7

Glycine

Accepted Answer

Note that the following are not intended as health claims or veterinary advice, but rather, are based on published research papers.

Anti-Inflammatory & Joint Comfort
Glycine is a small amino acid that plays a big role in controlling inflammation. It is known as “the smallest anti-inflammatory nutrient” because it can modulate immune responses and reduce the production of inflammatory molecules (like NF-κB). In the context of joint health, glycine is abundant in collagen and is vital for maintaining healthy cartilage. By providing extra glycine (either through collagen peptides or as a pure supplement), we aim to support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Research in animals suggests glycine supplementation can lessen chronic inflammation and oxidative stress associated with aging and degenerative diseases. For example, a 2024 nutritional study found that senior cats fed a glycine-supplemented diet had significant improvements in antioxidant status (higher glutathione levels) and reductions in markers of oxidative damage compared to control cats [15]. Since chronic inflammation often underlies joint stiffness and pain, glycine’s effects in quelling inflammation may contribute to improved comfort and mobility in cats with achy joints.

Muscle and Metabolic Support
Beyond inflammation, glycine has been observed to support muscle health and metabolism in older pets. It aids in synthesizing creatine and collagen, which are important for muscle function and tissue repair. This suggests it could help maintain vitality in senior cats, potentially improving their overall activity levels and well-being. While these effects are more indirect, they reinforce glycine’s role as a beneficial amino acid for long-term health. In fact, glycine deficiency has been proposed as an important possible contributor to developing arthritis [16].

[15] Ruparell, A. et al. (2024) ‘Glycine supplementation can partially restore oxidative stress-associated glutathione deficiency in ageing cats.’, The British journal of nutrition, 131(12), pp. 1947–1961. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0007114524000370

[16] de Paz-Lugo, P., Lupiáñez, J.A. and Meléndez-Hevia, E. (2018) ‘High glycine concentration increases collagen synthesis by articular chondrocytes in vitro: acute glycine deficiency could be an important cause of osteoarthritis.’, Amino acids, 50(10), pp. 1357–1365. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-018-2611-x

Question 8

Type II Undenatured Chicken Collagen (UC-II)

Accepted Answer

Note that the following are not intended as health claims or veterinary advice, but rather, are based on published research papers.

Immune Modulation for Joint Health
Undenatured type 2 collagen is a specialized form of collagen derived from chicken cartilage that is processed at low temperatures to preserve its original structure (native epitopes). Its mode of action is quite different from hydrolysed collagen. Undenatured type 2 collagen is believed to work via an immune-mediated mechanism: when given orally in small amounts, it can induce “oral tolerance.” In simpler terms, it trains the immune system to recognise collagen as a friendly substance rather than a target. This helps to turn down the autoimmune component of osteoarthritis, i.e., it may reduce the inappropriate immune attack on the body’s own joint cartilage. By calming this immune response, undenatured type 2 collagen can potentially decrease inflammation in joints and slow cartilage breakdown, addressing one root cause of osteoarthritic pain.

Evidence in Pets
New data from a randomised, controlled, blinded, placebo controlled study studying undenatured type 2 collagen in cats with arthritis showed significant outcome improvements in patients compared to placebo treated cats [17]. Dogs on undenatured type 2 collagen showed improved scores in pain during limb manipulation and after exercise, compared to placebo. Higher doses had greater benefits, although outcomes were based on clinical observations [18]. Undenatured type 2 collagen is being to treat feline joint issues and is well-tolerated.

[17] Benito de la Víbora, J. et al. (2023) UNDENATURED TYPE II COLLAGEN IN CATS WITH DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE. Available at: https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.19147.60963

[18] Gencoglu, H. et al. (2020) ‘Undenatured Type II Collagen (UC-II) in Joint Health and Disease: A Review on the Current Knowledge of Companion Animals.’, Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 10(4). Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10040697

Question 9

Organic psyllium husk

Accepted Answer

Note that the following are not intended as health claims or veterinary advice, but rather, are based on published research papers.

Improves Bowel Regularity
Psyllium husk is a soluble fibre derived from the Plantago plant. In cats, psyllium acts as a gentle bulk-forming laxative, absorbing water and forming a gel that helps normalise stool consistency. High-quality feline studies have demonstrated psyllium’s efficacy in regulating bowel movements. In a 2024 controlled trial, healthy adult cats fed a psyllium-enriched diet had significantly more frequent bowel movements and higher faecal moisture content than when they were fed a fibre-free control diet [19]. The psyllium reduced instances of hard, dry stools - stools were softer and heavier, indicating better hydration. This led researchers to conclude that psyllium supplementation can help manage constipation in cats, making stools easier to pass. For constipated cats or those with infrequent elimination, adding psyllium to the diet often results in more regular, comfortable defecation.

Firms Up Loose Stools
Interestingly, and counter-intuitively, psyllium’s water-binding ability can also firm up overly soft or loose stools by absorbing excess water in the intestines. Cat owners and vets have noted that psyllium supplementation can help with mild diarrhoea by bulking the stool. Thus, psyllium tends to normalise stool consistency on both ends – softening when too hard, firming when too soft – which is why it’s recommended for conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or sporadic diarrhoea in cats.

Hairball Reduction
Another benefit, particularly for long-haired cats, is reduced hairball issues. Psyllium can encapsulate ingested hair and facilitate its passage through the digestive tract. A study noted that diets with added psyllium increased fecal hair excretion in long-haired cats, meaning more shed hair passed out in stools rather than forming hairballs. Consequently, long-haired cats on psyllium had fewer hairballs [20]. This makes psyllium a useful supplement for grooming-related gastrointestinal problems: it helps sweep hair through the gut efficiently.

These findings underscore psyllium’s role in promoting healthy, regular digestion and mitigating common feline GI complaints like constipation and hairballs.

[19] Keller, E. et al. (2024) ‘Psyllium husk powder increases defecation frequency and faecal score, bulk and moisture in healthy cats’, Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 26(4), p. 1098612X241234151. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X241234151

[20] Weber, M. et al. (2015) ‘Influence of the dietary fibre levels on faecal hair excretion after 14 days in short and long-haired domestic cats.’, Veterinary medicine and science, 1(1), pp. 30–37. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.6

Question 10

Saccharomyces boulardii (probiotic yeast)

Accepted Answer

Note that the following are not intended as health claims or veterinary advice, but rather, are based on published research papers.

Supports Healthy Digestion & Fights Diarrhea
Saccharomyces boulardii is a beneficial yeast probiotic known for its gut health benefits. In cats, S. boulardii has been used to help treat and prevent diarrhea, including diarrhea associated with antibiotic use, intestinal infections, or chronic gastrointestinal diseases, such as IBD. High-quality evidence indicates that S. boulardii effectively reduces acute diarrhoea and improves stool consistency [21]. Veterinary gastrointestinal specialists note “strong evidence” for S. boulardii in resolving adult cats’ acute diarrhoea episodes. It has also shown promise in managing chronic conditions: cats with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) given S. boulardii tend to have reduced frequency of loose stools and vomiting. This probiotic works by restoring a healthy balance of gut flora, inhibiting pathogenic bacteria (like Clostridioides difficile and Salmonella), and modulating the local immune response in the gut [22].

IBD and Intestinal Health
Chronic idiopathic IBD in cats often leads to malabsorption and persistent diarrhea. S. boulardii has been incorporated into treatment protocols for IBD because of its anti-inflammatory and gut-barrier protective effects. Studies and case reports have found that cats with IBD show clinical improvement (firmer stools, better appetite) when S. boulardii is added to their diet. It may also help by increasing digestive enzymes and aiding nutrient absorption, which is crucial in cats with maldigestion.

Safety and Use
S. boulardii is non-pathogenic and safe for long-term use in felines. It survives passage through the acidic stomach and colonizes the colon transiently, exerting its beneficial effects without permanently altering the cat’s native microbiome once supplementation stops. This makes it a great tool for both short-term GI upsets (like antibiotic-associated diarrhoea) and long-term gut maintenance in sensitive cats [23].

Tip: It’s important to select a live, quality controlled S. boulardii supplement for your cat. The consensus dose is 5 billion CFU per day, and please ensure your source is third-party audited. A recent study of veterinary probiotics showed that only 27% contained the (live) actual strains advertised at the correct dose, and many were dead, or non-viable, and in some cases contaminated with unrelated bacteria or yeast [24].

[21] Lonigro, N. et al. (2025) ‘Impact of Saccharomyces cerevisiae DSM 34246 (Canobios-BL) var. boulardii Supplementation on Nutritional Status and Fecal Parameters in Healthy Breeding Adult Cats’, Veterinary Sciences, 12(1). Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12010044

[22] Marsilio, S. et al. (2019) ‘Characterization of the fecal microbiome in cats with inflammatory bowel disease or alimentary small cell lymphoma.’, Scientific reports, 9(1), p. 19208. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-55691-w

[23] Stokes, J.E., Price, J.M. and Whittemore, J.C. (2017) ‘Randomized, Controlled, Crossover trial of Prevention of Clindamycin-Induced Gastrointestinal Signs Using a Synbiotic in Healthy Research Cats.’, Journal of veterinary internal medicine, 31(5), pp. 1406–1413. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.14795

[24] Weese, J.S. and Martin, H. (2011) ‘Assessment of commercial probiotic bacterial contents and label accuracy.’, The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne, 52(1), pp. 43–46.

Question 11

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)

Accepted Answer

Note that the following are not intended as health claims or veterinary advice, but rather, are based on published research papers.

Critical for Metabolism and Nerve Function
Vitamin B12 is essential for virtually every cell in the body – it’s required for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, neurologic function, and energy production. Cats with gastrointestinal diseases (like IBD, pancreatitis, or chronic diarrhea) very commonly develop cobalamin deficiency because they cannot absorb B12 properly from their inflamed intestines. In fact, more than 60% of cats with chronic digestive issues have abnormally low B12 levels. Such deficiency can cause weight loss, poor coat, anaemia, and nerve damage. Supplementing B12 in these cats is vital to restore normal levels. Clinical signs of low B12 (hypocobalaminaemia) in cats include persistent GI problems, lack of appetite, lethargy, and even neurological signs in severe cases. By providing B12, we support proper digestion, nutrient absorption, and metabolic health.

Proven Benefits in GI Disease
Research supports that treating cobalamin deficiency improves outcomes in cats with GI disease. For example, in one study of cats with severe cobalamin deficiency and chronic GI conditions, regular B12 injections led to normalisation of methylmalonic acid levels (a marker of B12 status) and was associated with clinical improvement [25]. Many cats show better appetite and weight gain once B12 deficiency is corrected. Because cobalamin is also crucial for immune cell function, repleting it can bolster a cat’s immune response to gut inflammation. Thus, B12 supplementation is considered a standard of care for feline IBD and intestinal issues - and it can be given orally too. Even in healthy cats, B12 is important – it helps keep the brain sharp and the blood cells healthy.

Energy and Growth
For kittens or debilitated cats, ensuring adequate B12 can make a noticeable difference in energy levels. B12 helps in the conversion of nutrients from food into usable energy. A well-nourished cat with normal B12 is more likely to have a healthy appetite and normal growth or maintenance of muscle mass. Conversely, a cat low in B12 may be prone to weight loss and weakness. This is why veterinarians often check B12 levels in any cat with sluggishness or chronic illness and supplement if needed.

[25] Toresson, L. et al. (2017) ‘Oral cobalamin supplementation in cats with hypocobalaminaemia: a retrospective study.’, Journal of feline medicine and surgery, 19(12), pp. 1302–1306. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X16689406

Cat Vet-Formulated Supplements Exclusively For Cats (Not A Dog Supplement In Disguise)

Science-backed benefits - just for cats

What is in Dr Bec’s supplements for cats, and why?

ANXIETY+ Health Support

GUT+ Health Support

Hydrolysed collagen peptides (chicken sternum derived)

Green-Lipped Mussel (Perna canaliculus)

L-Theanine

Glycine

Type II Undenatured Chicken Collagen (UC-II)

Organic psyllium husk

Saccharomyces boulardii (probiotic yeast)

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)