What's All the Fuss About Fish Oil for Pets
Feb 2008
By Dr. Jeff Leighton
Recent nationwide pet food recalls have raised the consciousness of pet owners and led us to examine what we are feeding our pets. We want to know that they are receiving the same high quality products that we are accustomed to ourselves.
As we strive to feed them a healthier diet, we also wonder if nutritional supplements might benefit our pet’s health as they can our own. One particular supplement, omega-3 oils, also known as fish oils, has been shown to benefit humans, and it has received attention as a pet supplement, as well.
In early post-World War II findings, scientists discovered that fish oils are good for human health. In my early studies as a scientist examining the health and diet of Greenland Eskimos and Norwegians, it was learned that although the Eskimos’ diet was low in fresh vegetables and rich in fatty animals and fish, they had a low incidence of heart disease, had clean arteries and only a few died from coronary artery disease or sudden cardiac death.
In addition, Norwegians were the healthiest population in terms of cardiovascular and mental health in Europe after World War II, in part because they followed their government’s recommendation to take two tablespoons of cod liver oil daily.
Because companion animals suffer many of the same diseases as humans, it stands to reason that they would benefit from the same principles of a healthful diet and good nutrition, and possibly some of the same dietary supplements. Research has shown that fish oils, specifically high potency omega-3 oils, work to counteract inflammation that leads to joint problems, arthritis and kidney disease.
Inflammation in the body is a key driver of most chronic diseases, and chronic inflammation leads to a quicker aging process. By decreasing inflammation, chronic diseases in both humans and pets may be lessened, and when pets have less pain and inflammation, they can move around more freely and, therefore, lead a more active and happy life.
In addition, studies have shown that skin allergies, itching and brittle coats may be resolved. Mental alertness increases and older pets feel and act years younger.
Scientific research has led to the understanding that, in particular, two components of fish oils are good for our health: the omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). The studies clearly show that these omega-3 fatty acids are heart-healthy, decrease global inflammation, pains and aches, asthma, arthritis and are brain-healthy, especially for depression and bipolar diseases.
Omega-3 fatty acids EPA/DHA work by counteracting bad fats known as omega-6 fats. High doses of omega-3 fatty acids compete effectively with the bad fats decreasing inflammation and improving heart and brain health.
Omega-3 oils may be found in cereals, eggs and pet foods, for instance, but the dose or quantity may be too small to be effective against the omega-6 fats, which are also present and abundant in those products, therefore many people choose to take omega-3 fish oil supplements.
When purchasing omega-3 oils for your pet, it is important to buy only high quality oils that are certified free of heavy metal, with the right pharmacology and dose strength. Heavy metals should be below level of detection, or less than 0.001 mg/10 ml. Research has shown that best effects are achieved by taking relatively high doses of omega-3 oils in liquid form that can deliver more than 70 percent of EPA/DHA per dose.
For your pet’s health consider only products having a minimum of 1,500 mg combined EPA/DHA per teaspoon (5 ml). If your pet weighs more than 20 pounds, a dose of one teaspoon per day of high-grade oils is recommended. If your pet is less than 20 pounds, half a teaspoon per day is recommended.
Many suppliers advertise salmon oil products that have a very low percentage of active omega-3 fatty acids and contain many other fats that pets do not benefit from, rather they instead receive added fat in their diets. Further, many pet foods add an omega-3 fatty acid known as ALA (alpha linoleic acid), which is not active and must first convert to an active omega-3 fatty acid. Therefore, products containing ALA should be considered without benefits.
It is vital that you read labels and compare products. Take charge of your health and your pet’s health by supplementing your diet and theirs with high quality, high dose omega-3 oil.
Jeff Leighton, MD, PhD, lives in Rockport with his wife, Lody, and their West Highland terrier Lucy the Great. As CEO and founder of Maine Natural Health Company, Leighton focuses on the design and production of natural products for both humans and companion animals. For more information, send an email to pets@mainenaturalhealth.com.
