Fish oil and omega for cats and dogs: benefits and risks, the purpose of supplementation, how to administer.

Fish oil and omega fatty acids are extremely important for cats and kittens, adult dogs, and puppies. This supplement not only helps make their coat shinier and more beautiful but also preserves their health. It is also prescribed for certain health conditions. Let’s delve into these questions. Veterinary fish oil for cats and dogs – how does it differ from supplements for humans? What kind of fish oil is best to give to cats and dogs? How to choose the appropriate dosages and administer fish oil to a cat or dog?

Can cats and dogs be given fish oil and omega?

Many people ask whether fish oil can be given to cats and dogs. Cats, including kittens, not only can but also need to receive fish oil either through their food or as a supplement. The same goes for dogs.

As for the purpose of the supplement, we will discuss it further, but for now, it’s important to note that cats and dogs can receive fish oil either in the form of supplements or through fish consumption. Fish can be given as a small piece mixed with meat every day or as a purely fish-based meal once a week. The fish should be of fatty varieties such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and so on. Dry fish is not suitable.

Can fish oil be given to a kitten and a puppy?

Such a supplement is also suitable for a small kitten or puppy. While the little one is still nursing from its mother, there is no need to add it specifically. Then, around 1 month of age, the kitten and puppy start trying adult food, either dry food or meat. Fish is introduced into their diet no earlier than 3 months. Therefore, if you want to use fish specifically as a source of omega fatty acids, you will have to wait. However, it is not prohibited to start giving omega-3 supplements before this age, and there are certain conditions in which supplementation is recommended for young kittens and puppies.

Omega for neutered cats and dogs, spayed females and males.

Omega supplements are equally beneficial for neutered cats and spayed dogs as they are for fertile individuals. There is no difference in their impact on the body. The same applies to dogs.

Fatty acids for cats and dogs and their difference from fish oil.

To begin with, let’s delve into some theory so that readers understand that fish oil supplements and concentrated omega fatty acid supplements are different preparations.

Fish oil is a fat obtained from the meat of fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, and tuna. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Fish oil has a fishy smell and taste, which many people and even pets do not enjoy.

Omega-3 supplements are concentrated and artificially derived preparations, and they are not necessarily derived solely from fish. Omega-3 supplements contain isolated molecules of fatty acids that are extracted from fish oil or plant sources (such as flaxseed and algae).

One of the main advantages of fish oil as a source of omega-3 is that it also contains other beneficial compounds, including the potential presence of vitamin D. However, most commonly, the fish oil sold as a supplement does not contain this vitamin (except for fish liver oil).

However, fish oil can also contain toxins such as mercury and pesticides, which accumulate in fish tissues. Therefore, when choosing fish oil supplements, it is important to ensure their high quality. Look for seals or certifications on the packaging such as NSF International, United States Pharmacopeia (USP), Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA), or International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS). This applies to American supplements, which we recommend as the most reliable in terms of quality.

On the other hand, omega-3 supplements are concentrated, and one of the main differences is the quantitative composition of fatty acids. Fish oil typically contains 30-60% omega-3 fatty acids, while omega-3 supplements can contain anywhere from 60% to 90%. This means that to obtain an equivalent amount of omega-3, a significantly smaller quantity of the supplement needs to be consumed compared to fish oil.

Concentrated products generally cost more, but it is more cost-effective to purchase them when considering the amount of omega fatty acids in a jar. To determine the concentration, simply consult the instructions, where all the information is provided.

Fish oil and omega supplements are extremely beneficial for cats and dogs.

They help achieve the following effects.

• Prevention of cancer, arthritis, and heart diseases. Such effects are related to the fact that a deficiency of fatty acids can lead to changes in cell membranes, resulting in a loss of their ability to retain water, vital substances, and electrolytes. This becomes a determining factor in the development of many diseases, including cancer, arthritis, and heart diseases.
• Analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Essential fatty acids, as proven by real research, effectively combat inflammation and reduce pain. Therefore, they can be used as an alternative to synthetic analgesic medications that may be harmful to health. Omega supplements, in particular, are beneficial for inflammatory joint conditions and pain-related joint diseases. Cats and dogs with arthritis or osteochondrodysplasia require such supplements.
• Gut health. Fatty acids help maintain a balance of intestinal microflora and, according to a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in 2017, possess prebiotic properties. Therefore, they should be taken in cases of dysbiosis and as a preventive measure after a course of antibiotics.
• Heart health. A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2013 concluded that a high level of fatty acids in the blood significantly reduces the risk of death from cardiovascular diseases. This study focused on humans rather than cats and dogs, but the impact of omega-3 fatty acids on tissues is similar. Therefore, it can be assumed that the intake of supplements containing fatty acids is an excellent preventive measure for pets as well.
• Coat beauty and skin health. Omega-3 in particular can be helpful when there are inflammatory skin conditions. In addition, taking supplements improves the quality of the coat, making it silkier and shinier.
• Anxiety reduction. According to an analysis published in JAMA in 2018 (which focused on humans), taking omega-3 helps reduce anxiety. Although such studies have not been conducted on cats, they have been conducted on dogs. These studies showed that adding omega-3 to the diet of an anxious dog reduces anxiety by 50%. Omega-3 plays a significant role in mood regulation, and its deficiency is associated with impaired serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine transmission, as well as decreased cognitive function and even the development of depression in dogs.
• Fighting herpes. Taking concentrated fatty acids helps the body fight herpes. Cats and dogs, like humans, can suffer from serious diseases associated with this virus that cause a lot of discomfort.
• Boosting the immune system. Omega-3 helps in the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, substances that aid in maintaining immune response.
• Supporting healthy development of the eye’s retina and visual cortex of the brain.
• Maintaining normal blood pressure levels.
• Normalization of the functioning of certain organs, particularly the heart and kidneys.
• Proper embryonic development. Feeding pregnant and lactating mothers (dogs and cats) a diet enriched with fatty acids leads to improved offspring development.
• Enhanced growth of offspring. Omega-3 fatty acids help animals strengthen and grow faster, making them beneficial for weakened individuals and those with poor weight gain.
• Assistance in diabetes management, as fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties and enhance the body’s sensitivity to insulin.

Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids for Cats and Dogs – They Should be Distinguished!

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are essential components of cell membranes and blood vessels. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are examples of Omega-3 fatty acids. Deficiency of these acids is often observed in cats, dogs, and humans.

Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids are organic compounds that belong to the family of unsaturated fatty acids, with linoleic acid and arachidonic acid being the most well-known among them. Deficiency of these acids is generally absent in both humans and animals.

Omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acids are a family of unsaturated fatty acids, with oleic acid being the most well-known among them. Deficiency of these acids is generally not observed in humans and animals, as they are abundantly present in both plant and animal fats.

According to renowned veterinarian Karen Becker from the United States, it is crucial not only to ensure the intake of all these fatty acids in the body but also to maintain the proper balance between them in the diet. The recommended ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the diet is approximately 2:1 to 5:1. This means that omega-6 should be consumed in quantities 2-5 times higher than omega-3. However, the problem lies in the fact that the typical diet of both domestic animals and humans significantly exceeds this ratio, with a much higher intake of omega-6. As a result, various pathologies arise, including life-threatening ones.

“If you feed your pet commercially processed dog or cat food, chances are they have a deficiency or imbalance of fatty acids. The meat, poultry, and fish used in today’s commercial pet foods, as well as in natural diets, do not provide sufficient omega-3 content to balance the omega-6 content. Commercial pet foods often contain an excessive amount of omega-6. Grains, vegetable oils, and animal fats are rich sources of omega-6. Moreover, manufacturers often do not supplement pet foods with omega-3. Even if they do, the high-temperature thermal processing and extrusion processes destroy the beneficial properties of omega-3. Omega-3 fatty acids are also sensitive to oxygen exposure, causing the fat to become rancid with prolonged exposure to oxygen.”

In addition, it should be noted that omega-3 also deteriorates upon repeated freezing of fish. Therefore, if you hope to provide your cat with fish and ensure they are receiving omega-3, this expectation may not be fulfilled. Fish sold in supermarkets has often undergone 2-3 freezing cycles, even if its fillets are displayed on ice to appear fresh.

Side Effects and Risks of Omega-3 and Fish Oil Supplements.

Like any product, fish oil and omega-3 supplements can lead to not only positive changes in the body but also side effects. Some of the notable side effects include:

• Diarrhea (supplements contain fat, and fatty substances can have a laxative effect);
• Decreased blood clotting (if surgery is planned, the intake of the supplement will need to be discontinued, preferably in advance);
• Herpes outbreaks (the intake of omega-3 activates the immune system in combating chronic herpes infection, resulting in, among other things, skin outbreaks, but there is no need to be afraid of it);
• It is not recommended to give fish oil if the animal has acute pancreas, liver, or gallbladder diseases. In remission, the amount should be strictly controlled and considered in the overall fat content of the diet;
• Allergic reactions and individual intolerance reactions;
• Toxic effect on the body in case of purchasing low-quality supplement.

How to choose an omega-3 supplement?

Omega-3 supplements are available in the form of capsules, liquids, powders, and chewable tablets. It is preferable to choose capsules and liquids with dispensers to avoid the need to open the bottle every time. Continuous exposure to oxygen can cause the supplement to oxidize and become harmful.

But not all supplements are beneficial, even if they are manufactured in the form of capsules or sprays. Many unscrupulous manufacturers produce supplements with minimal amounts of active ingredients, and they may be made from poorly purified or oxidized raw materials. Such supplements may either not deliver the desired effect or even cause harm. Additionally, the market is flooded with numerous counterfeit products of popular brands. Therefore, it is important to choose carefully.

“Vegetable oils do not contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA); instead, they contain a less bioavailable, inactive form of their precursor. In order for your pet to benefit, the precursor must first be converted into these acids with the help of specific enzymes. However, cats and dogs have limited ability to perform this conversion: cats lack it entirely, and dogs have minimal functionality.”

Karen Becker considers krill oil to be the best source of omega fatty acids. Krill are small marine crustaceans. Krill does not accumulate heavy metals and has a very high absorption rate, so your pet would need one-fifth of the regular fish oil dose to obtain similar benefits from krill oil. Krill also has natural antioxidant protection against the oxidation of omega-3 and damage caused by free radicals.

Moreover, there is a plentiful supply of krill in the ocean, and it reproduces at a rapid pace, unlike, for example, salmon. Therefore, scientists believe that soon krill will become the primary source of omega fatty acids for supplement production. However, it should be noted that currently krill-based supplements are considerably more expensive.

How and how much to give fish oil to cats and dogs: instructions.

If you have purchased fish oil or an omega supplement specifically for cats and dogs, the packaging will indicate the recommended dosage. This could be, for example, one capsule or one pump from the dispenser. The dosage for kittens is lower. The dose is calculated based on the weight of the animal.

Many people ask whether it’s possible to give cats and dogs fish oil in capsules. Yes, it is possible. It is one of the preferred options. However, it is important not to force the capsule into their mouth like a pill. In such cases, the contents of the capsule should be punctured and poured over their food. Similarly, if you have a supplement with a dispenser, you dispense one dose onto their food.

However, not all cats are willing to eat food that has been enriched with fish oil or omega-3 concentrate. After all, the supplement has a specific smell that is detected by the feline nose. For instance, the author’s cats refuse to eat in such cases. How else can you give omega-3 to your cat in such a situation? One option is to puncture the capsule and forcefully pour its contents into the cat’s mouth. However, this should be done carefully to prevent the cat from choking.

How to give fish oil to a kitten or a puppy? The same way as to adult cats or dogs.

If you are purchasing a veterinary product, the instructions on the packaging will specify the recommended daily dosage. It could be one “spray” if you have a bottle with a dispenser or, for example, 1 capsule. Read the product instructions.

You can also buy omega-3 supplements for humans for your pet. They have the same composition. However, the dispenser may deliver a different portion, and the capsules are usually larger. Therefore, you will have to calculate the dosage yourself based on approximate guidelines: 0.2 grams per 1 kilogram of the animal’s weight. The concentration of the supplements varies, as you already know, so these figures are only approximate. Nonetheless, if you follow this recommendation, a cat weighing, for example, 5 kilograms would require approximately 1 gram of the supplement. Sometimes a capsule contains exactly 1 gram, which is the most convenient option.

It is difficult to overdo it with omega-3. However, regular and excessive overdose can lead to stool disorders, nausea, vomiting, excessive blood thinning, and other consequences. Therefore, we strive to give the necessary amount and not exceed it.

And remember that fish oil and omega-3 supplements are fatty preparations that can trigger pancreatic and gallbladder issues and excessively loosen the stool. Healthy cats tolerate fatty food well, but if your cat starts to weaken significantly, you should definitely reduce the dosage.

Dogs, on the other hand, tolerate fatty food worse than cats. Therefore, it is important not to exceed the dosage and take into account the amount of fat in the overall fat content of the diet. The easiest way, if you’re estimating everything by eye, is to add fish oil to lean meat and refrain from giving fish oil when providing fattier meat.

How many days should fish oil be given to cats and dogs?

It depends on your goals. For example, if you want to reduce inflammation, it is given as a course either until improvement is seen or for a duration of at least a month. If you want to improve the quality of the coat and the condition of the skin, the course should also be at least a month. However, sometimes the effects become noticeable only after a couple of months. This is also normal. Fish oil and omega-3 supplements are meant for long-term use. Although they can have a quick impact as well: the article’s author once managed to alleviate their cat’s leg pain and lameness by administering a double dose of omega-3.

If it is a chronic condition accompanied by pain and inflammation, lifelong therapy may be prescribed. In this case, it is important to give the doses as prescribed by the veterinarian, as otherwise the therapeutic effect may not be achieved.

And if you are giving fish oil or omega-3 supplements for prevention and maintaining health, your cat or dog can also take them in cycles, for example, a month on and a month off. However, it’s better to give them continuously in minimal necessary amounts as a dietary supplement. If not given in cycles, it is not necessary to give them every day – a couple of times a week is sufficient.

Where to buy fish oil and omega-3?

Vitamins for cats with omega-3, as well as pure supplements containing these substances, are sold in many stores and pharmacies. However, the quality raises concerns. How can you distinguish a reliable product?

The article’s author prefers to start by choosing a trusted store and then selecting a specific supplement. Our choice fell on the American store iHerb, which undoubtedly offers high-quality products and provides protection against counterfeits.

But among the supplements sold there, you also need to know how to choose. Here’s what American veterinarian Karen Becker says about this: “The best sources of omega-3 are krill oil, and you can also use salmon oil, tuna oil, anchovy oil, and sardine oil. Keep in mind that cod liver oil does not provide enough essential fatty acids for pets. It is a good source of vitamins A and D but not essential fatty acids.”

• Krill oil by Now. Krill oil is the most beneficial and environmentally friendly. This supplement is intended for humans, but it can be given to pets in veterinary doses. Conveniently, a cat weighing 4-7 kg will require exactly 1 capsule per day.
• Veterinary krill, salmon, and cod liver oil by Wonder Paws. Its advantage lies in the fact that the supplement comes with a dispenser, eliminating the need to open the jar each time and exposing the oil to oxidation.
• Omega-3 from anchovies, sardines, and tuna. A human supplement by NOW. The most affordable option among quality supplements.
• Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil. Zesty Paws company offers omega-3 in a bottle with a dispenser, which is very convenient for use with domestic pets.
• NOW Fish Oil Concentrate. Veterinary product. The oil is contained in capsules.
• Nordic Naturals Omega-3. Veterinary product. The downside is that it doesn’t have a dispenser or capsules, but a dropper, so you’ll have to open the bottle every time, introducing air into it.

Conclusions.

• The answer to whether cats can have fish oil and omega-3 is a definite yes. Not only can they have it, but they also need it.
• The answer to whether fish oil is beneficial for cats is both yes and no. It is because it is crucial to choose a high-quality supplement that is free from toxins.
• Fish oil can be used for preventive purposes, while omega-3 supplements are better suited when dealing with a specific issue. However, it is important that omega-3 is obtained from fish or krill sources rather than plant-based sources.
• It is better to pay extra and choose a concentrated omega-3 supplement. In terms of the amount of omega-3 molecules, it can even turn out to be cheaper.
• It is important to provide an omega-3 supplement rather than omega-6, as it is specifically lacking in the bodies of cats and dogs, regardless of their diet.