Omega 3 for dogs and cats is a type of healthy fat rich in fatty acids that is not produced by the animals' bodies, but must be included in their routine, either by food supplements or through their own diet. That is why many manufacturers bet on the inclusion of omega 3 for cats and dogs in feed, sachets and derivatives. The Paws of the House went after someinformation to better understand the benefits of omega 3 for dogs, dosage indicated for each species and other curiosities on the subject!

Omega 3 for dogs and cats: what is it for?

Omega 3 aids in the health of the animal and helps prevent a number of diseases. The component acts as a powerful antioxidant and is an ally of pets, especially elderly dogs and cats. Still, the recommendation is that animals of any age have omega 3 included in the diet. Puppies, adults and older pets can benefit greatly from it, even healthy ones.

According to veterinarian Nathalia Breder, who specializes in animal nutrition, omega 3 is rich in fatty acids that are excellent anti-inflammatories. "They increase disposition and motor skills, reduce inflammation and triglyceride and glucose levels. They also help in some pathologies such as dermatoses, osteodystrophies, dyslipidemia, among others." For dogs, it is alsocommon to give omega 3 for dog hair loss.

Many people wonder if giving omega 3 to cats with kidney disease: the nutrient can even help improve the health of the kitty. Dogs with kidney problems also benefit from it. "It increases renal excretion (which means improving renal filtration) without changing the pressure inside the organ."

Is omega 3 for dogs and cats the same as for humans?

It is common to come across questions on the internet such as "can I give human omega 3 to cats and dogs?" and similar questions. Yes, human omega 3 can be offered to pets, as long as it is in the correct proportion and dosage. Both compounds are extracted from fish oil, but the guardian must pay special attention to the recommendations given by the veterinarian to avoid excessesor nutritional deficiencies.

"If human omega 3 has the same proportion as veterinary omega 3, it can be used. As for the dose, it is the veterinarian who will prescribe it according to the pet's need and pathology (associated disease). It is something that usually varies according to the weight of the animal ", comments the specialist.

If you offer too much omega-3 to your dog, side effects can include canine pancreatitis, which is nothing more than an inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms of the disease include diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain and dehydration. The same goes for cats, so it is important to follow the guidelines of a professional to the letter.

Why bet on foods containing omega 3 for dogs and cats?

In pet stores and specialized stores you can find a number of products that contain omega 3 for cats and dogs. To find out, just read the nutritional information on the packaging of the dog or cat food to find out the amount. This is an important habit to know what ingredients make up the food, and how they can impact your pet's health. In addition to theThere are sachets for cats and dogs that also have omega 3 in small proportions.

Even so, it is essential to keep a veterinarian to take care of your pet. He will be able to understand if the animal needs any specific supplementation that the food does not handle, and can prescribe vitamins for dogs and cats.