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Salmon oil is a great source of essential fatty acids for both cats and dogs. Fatty acids can be described as the building blocks of fats. The ones you’ll have heard of most are omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids, but there are more.
Cats and dogs need both Omega 3 and 6, although the ideal ratio of 6:3 for pets is still being debated. Omega 6 is needed for skin health and blood clotting, but it is also pro-inflammatory (it can encourage inflammation). Omega 3 is anti-inflammatory and is also needed for brain health and eye function.
Omega 6 is found in seeds, nuts, meat, fish, eggs and soya beans, however cats can only utilise omega 6 from animal sources.
Omega 3 is found in seaweed, oily fish (because they eat the seaweed), eggs and seeds such as flax seeds, however dogs and cats require marine sources, ideally from animal tissue.
The reason for this is although omega 3 can be found in seeds, it is in the form of ALA (alpha – linolenic acid) and dogs struggle to convert this to other omega 3 fatty acids called EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), additionally cats cannot convert ALA at all (or have minimal conversion capabilities); and it is the EPA and DHA that they require for health.
Salmon oil is an excellent source of DHA and EPA. These Omega 3 fatty acids have important roles in maintaining brain, heart and immune health and have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to support healthy skin and joints.
Salmon oil is a supplement that may be useful for several conditions:
1. Joint health - for pets with osteoarthritis.
2. Cognitive dysfunction - signs include confusion, loss of house training, changes in sleep patterns in older dogs and cats.
3. Skin health – as it supplies omega 6 to help maintain the skin’s healthy barrier and omega 3 which may help if there is any inflammation.
4. Immune health – omega 3 has anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Heart health – there is evidence to support the use of omega 3 for humans with heart disease, however research shows that it may also be useful for dogs due the anti-inflammatory and anti-arrhythmic effects it has.
Why is salmon oil recommended for pets and not cod liver oil?
Cod liver oil comes from the liver of the fish. This makes it high in Vitamin A which can be detrimental to health if eaten in excess., whereas salmon oil comes from the whole pressed fish, not just the liver.
Salmon oil as a source of calories
Oil is just fat in liquid form, so it contains a lot of calories. If you feed too much or introduce it too soon your pet may suffer from loose stools/diarrhoea.
If you are unsure if Salmon oil will be suitable for your pet, please get in touch and we will be happy to advise you: 01793 887555 email: contact@vetskitchen.co.uk
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