Cat & Dog - Fish Oil
Fish oils are derived from coldwater fish, mainly menhaden, salmon and trout. Cod stocks are reducing, so the age-old 'cod liver oil' should be avoided where possible..
These oils are rich in the omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These two fatty acids are metabolized to series 3 prostaglandins, which can have a significant moderating influence on inflammation.
Fish, in turn, obtain EPA and DHA from algae, making super green foods such as marine micro-algae an alternate source of EPA and DHA. Algae may become the dominant source of omega-3 fatty acids as fish populations continue to decline in the world's oceans in years to come.
Why recommend administration of fish oils to my pet?
Fish oils help reduce inflammation. They can be used as part of a broad therapeutic approach to inflammatory disease such as allergies, arthritis, autoimmune disease, kidney disease, heart disease and cancer prevention/support.
Some researchers believe omega-3 fatty acids may also help heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmias) and fits (seizures).
Generally speaking we use a higher dose of fish oils with greater severity of inflammatory disease. In severe disease, other anti-inflammatories may need to be integrated into treatment.
What are the main reasons to use fish oils?
- Allergic skin disease
- All types of cancer (and chemotherapy)
- All types of heart conditions
- Autoimmune disease
- Arthritis
Some animals will develop a greasy coat and large flaking dandruff-type symptoms when supplemented with fish oils. These clinical signs will resolve within a week or two if the supplementation is stopped.
Fish oils when taken at very high levels can reduce blood-clotting in some animals. If your animal has a clotting problem, please discuss this with your vet. Fish oils are safe to be taken by diabetic patients.
Where do I obtain fish oil supplements?
Please talk to your vet about products or suppliers we recommend. Fish oils do not need a prescription but there is a wide variation in quality and purity. We would be happy to advise.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on Jun 24, 2008.
