Dogs, Cats Need Omega-3 Fatty Acids Just As Humans Do

Cod liver oil is a valuable source of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, and naturally occurring Vitamins A and D for our animal companions. Nordic Naturals, the leading supplier of fish oil products in the natural products industry, introduces two sizes of Pet Cod Liver Oil, 8 and 16 oz. bottles, made specifically for dogs and cats. Unlike many pet products, the company uses the same oils and quality standards for the manufacturing of both its human and pet products. Nordic Naturals fish oils are independently tested and exceed all quality standards including the Norwegian Medicinal Standard and the European Pharmacopeia, delivering the purest, freshest and most effective omega-3 fish oils on the market.

According to Jean Hofve, DVM, pet nutrition expert and holistic veterinarian, "We are seeing the same response in dogs and cats as we are in humans. A lack of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, along with excess pro-inflammatory omega-6s, results in an imbalance in the omega-3/omega-6 ratio. This dietary imbalance contributes to chronic inflammation in these animals, which is linked to a plethora of problems including allergies, arthritis and skin/coat issues." Typically, a diet of commercial pet food does not provide adequate daily quantities of the important omega-3 fatty acids.

In dogs and cats, omega-3 fish oil supplementation supports heart health, weight management, joint mobility, brain and eye development, plus healthy skin and coat. Scientific research supports the use of omega-3 fatty acids for numerous clinical conditions in dogs and cats. Following are a few results.

-- Low omega-3 fatty acid status may contribute to aggressiveness in dogs. Vet Res Commun 2008;32:225-230.

-- Omega-3s help maintain healthy skin and coat in both cats and dogs. Watson T. Diet and Skin Disease in Dogs and Cats. J Nutr 1998;128:S2783-2789.

-- Omega-3 fatty acids help decrease inflammation and improve immune response in dogs. Bauer JE. Responses of dogs to dietary omega-3 fatty acids. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2007 Dec 1;231:1657-1661.

-- EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid, is beneficial for chronic kidney failure in cats. Plantinga EA, et al. Retrospective study of the survival of cats with acquired chronic renal insufficiency offered different commercial diets. Vet Rec 2005;157:455-6.