The Use of Fish Oils in Dogs and Cats

Many people are aware of fatty acids when talking about nutrition. These are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are required for us to function. The main groups of fatty acids are omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9. Omega-3s and omega 6s are “essential,” meaning that our bodies are unable to make them on their own and therefore we have to eat them in order to gain them. Omega-6 fatty acids are used as a main structural component in our cells and are important in maintaining optimal skin and coat quality. Omega-3 fatty acids are used in the retina and throughout the central nervous system. With some exceptions, omega-6s are generally considered pro-inflammatory, while omega-3s are considered anti-inflammatory.

In dog and cat foods, most diets are sufficient in omega-6s, but can lack the proper amount of omega-3 to provide the correct ratio of omega-6s and omega-3s needed to help reduce inflammation and improve cellular function. The recommended ratio is between 5:1 and 10:1. This means 5 to 10 times as many omega-6s compared to omega-3s. This provides the best balance between reducing inflammation while providing the essential fatty acids necessary for cellular performance. There are some commercial maintenance diets that do provide these ratios, but not all do. Therefore, supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids is often recommended. In some pets with certain inflammatory conditions, a low fat diet will help lower the amount of omega 6s. That, coupled with supplementation of omega-3s, can greatly improve their condition.

It is important to mention that while supplementing with omega-3s to provide the correct ratio is important for many conditions, pets with seborrhea – a skin condition that causes dry, scaly skin – actually benefit from increased supplementation with omega-6s. Common sources of omega-6s are those high in linoleic acid such as sunflower, safflower, corn, or soy oils.

Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation has been shown to reduce inflammatory conditions, such as allergic dermatitis, arthritis, kidney insufficiency, heart disease and cognitive dysfunction in our pets. The three main omega-3s are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Cold water fish oils are an excellent source of DHA and EPA. Flaxseed oil contains an omega 3 fatty acid called ALA. This is great for humans as we can convert ALA into DHA. However, dogs can only convert about 10%, and cats can convert even less, making flaxseed oil an inefficient means of supplementation. Also, certain algae are rich in omega-3s, making them a great option for people who want a vegan option, or for pets who don’t like the “fishy-flavor” of fish oils, but can tolerate the algae.

When considering fish oils, please aim for those who are ethically sourced and have as low of an environmental impact as possible. Also, there is no federal governing body to oversee that the production of pet supplements are safely and reliably created. Therefore, when deciding on pet supplements to use, a good thing to look for is a label from “NASC”. This is a non-profit trade association called the National Animal Supplement Council. Visit http://www.nasc.cc for more information. This doesn’t mean that products without the label are automatically inferior – it just means they haven’t been evaluated by this association.

When introducing omega-3s, allow for at least 4-6 weeks for initial effects, and 8-12 weeks for full effects. The main side effects of omega-3 fatty acids are GI upset- mainly diarrhea. However, very high doses can delay wound healing as they do reduce inflammation. It is important to remember that some inflammation is important for our bodies’ natural healing.

Omega-3 fatty acids are one of the essential supplements needed to maintain the overall health of our pets. Please discuss supplements with your veterinarian to see if your pet could benefit from them.