Fish are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and omega-3s are great for your cat or dog! Omega-3s support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response, and can reduce inflammation in the skin, joints, kidneys and heart.
If your pet has itchy skin, achey joints or other health issues, fish and fish oil can help them feel better. Omega-3 fatty acids play a key role in brain and eye development in puppies and kittens, and may be helpful in maintaining brain function later in life. In addition, omega-3s help maintain shiny coats and healthy skin.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 are essential fatty acids, meaning that the body cannot manufacture them. Pets often have a dietary deficiency in these fatty acids.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids are fatty acid chains that have their first double bond between carbon atoms 3 and 4. Omega 3s include ALA, EPA, and DHA (I could write out the words that these abbreviations stand for, but, trust me, you don’t want me to do that.) ALA occurs naturally in vegetable oils, and is a precursor to EPA and DHA. However, dogs and cats are not very good at turning ALA into DHA and EPA, so it is best to provide them the EPA and DHA directly. The best sources of EPA and DHA are cold water fish oils. The therapeutic dosage of EPA is 20 mg/lb. This dosage of EPA has anti-inflammatory effects, meaning you may see improvement in skin, digestive and joint issues. DHA, which is present where EPA is, is important for pregnant and nursing pets and young puppies or kittens for healthy development of the brain and vision. They are thought to improve cell membrane function-essentially moisturizing from the inside out. In humans, Omega 3s have been shown to protect against cardiovascular disease, arthritis, skin conditions and some mood disorders. We sell several brands of Fish Oil, as well as many fish based treats that can be beneficial to your pet.
Omega 6 Fatty Acids have their first double bond between carbon atoms 6 and 7. Omega 6s work with Omega 3s to reduct inflammation and promote healthy skin and hair.
Omega 9 Fatty Acids, which have their first double bond between carbon atoms 9 and 10, contains Oleic acid as its main component. Omega 9s can be manufactured by the body, but supplementation can help, as well. Omega 9 shows signs of being essential to immune function.
If you are interesting in giving your pet a balanced mix of Omegas, Ultra Oil is a supplement that contains a mix of Hempseed, Flaxseed, Fish and Grape Seed Oils. It contains Omega 3s, 6s and 9 in the balanced ratio that our pets’ bodies need.