Optimizing Your Pet's Nutrition for a Long, Happy Life - with Kat Donatello, Founder, Austin and Kat

Every pet parent wants their dog or cat to live a long, healthy, and happy life. While choosing a high-quality food is a great start, no single diet can meet every pet’s unique needs. That’s where supplements come in—helping to fill the gaps and support pets as they age or face specific health challenges.

Recently, I spoke with Kat Donatello, founder of Austin and Kat, a holistic, all-natural pet wellness brand that’s changing the way we think about nutrition for our four-legged family members.

From Athlete to Pet Wellness Pioneer

Before launching Austin and Kat in 2014, Kat spent more than 15 years as an athlete and business leader in the endurance sports world. When her senior dog, Brady, began experiencing common age-related issues like joint pain, inflammation, and cognitive decline, Kat looked for holistic options to improve his quality of life.

Unsatisfied with what was available, she experimented in her own kitchen and created her first wellness biscuit. What began as a personal project quickly resonated with other pet owners, evolving into a nationally recognized brand that now helps thousands of dogs and cats live healthier, more vibrant lives.

Why Supplements Make a Difference

Austin and Kat produces its supplements in-house at their Seattle facility, ensuring quality from start to finish. These formulas are designed to complement a balanced diet and can be especially helpful for pets who:

• Are entering their senior years

• Struggle with joint pain, inflammation, or stress

• Need additional support for focus, digestion, or immune health

Kat compares it to human nutrition—just as athletes (and the rest of us) often rely on vitamins, minerals, or functional foods to feel our best, pets can benefit from an extra boost too.

“Nutrition is crucial for overall health and wellbeing,” Kat explained. “Some pets can live long lives even on lower-quality food, but good nutrition, supported with the right supplements, can prevent issues and dramatically improve quality of life.”

The Bottom Line

Every pet is unique, and their nutritional needs change throughout their lives. Pairing high-quality food with targeted supplements can give your pet the best chance at a healthy, happy future. Always talk with your veterinarian before adding supplements to your pet’s routine, and choose trusted brands that prioritize transparency and quality.

Want to hear more from Kat about simple, affordable ways to make your pet’s food work harder for them? Listen to the full episode here: Cheap, Healthy Add-Ons to Instantly Boost Pet Food