Cat & Dog - Essential Fatty Acid Supplements

Products available include: Coatex, Omegaderm, Superdog Omega 3:6:9, Efavet, Yumega, Viacutan etc.

What are essential fatty acid supplements?

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are 'essential' because the body cannot make them, so they have to be eaten. They are extremely important nutrients for health. They are present in every cell in the body and are critical for normal growth and functioning of muscles, nerves and organs. EFAs are also used in the body to produce a range of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins – crucial mediators of inflammation control.

Fatty acid supplements can reduce coat shedding, promote growth of the undercoat, reduce tendencies for inflammation and itch and help support in kidney or heart disease.

Most animal diets are omega-6 fatty acid rich, but low in omega-3 fatty acids. Supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids helps promote a better balance and less inflammation in the body.

How much experience is there with the use of omega 3/6 fatty acids supplements in pets?

Experience is extensive with the use of these supplements in pets. They are probably the most commonly used supplement in all of human and animal medicine.

How much research has been conducted on this type of supplement?

Research is widespread on the benefits of essential fatty acid supplementation, which is reviewed extensively in the handouts on fish oil and flax oil in this series. Dozens of tests have been conducted on omega-3 fatty acids alone, given their emerging importance in the prevention of heart disease (specifically myocardial ischemia and coronary artery occlusion). In animals, given the lack of omega-3 fatty acids in most diets, these supplements are usually used to control inflammation (arthritis, skin disease), support heart and kidney problems and may help inhibit the growth of tumours.

How safe are omega 3/6 fatty acids supplements?

While extremely high doses of fatty acids may interfere with blood clotting, in general these supplements are very safe. Discontinuing supplementation a month before surgery is a belt and braces precaution we would suggest.

A small number of pets may develop a fishy odour to their skin or breath which resolves if the supplement is changed. Some pets may develop a more greasy skin and coat when taking oil supplements, again, this can be resolved with changing dose or product chosen.

We recommend avoiding fish oil supplements in early pregnancy.

If you are giving your pet a fish oil product, please ask us about vitamin supplements, vitamin E in particular. This nutrient should be increased in the face of fish oil supplements.

We stock a number of products high in omega fatty acids. Please feel free to talk to one of the vets if you would like to consider the use of these products with your pet. We would be happy to offer advice.