Fish oil has become one of the most consumed dietary supplements for humans because of its countless health benefits. As pet parents always want to do what’s best for their fur babies, many wonder if adding fish oil to pets’ diets could be beneficial. Let’s find out.
What Is Fish Oil?
Fish oil is fat extracted from the tissue of marine animals; it usually comes from oily fish such as sardines, tuna, salmon, menhaden, anchovies, herring and mackerel. Fish oil supplements come in liquid, pill or chewable tablet form. The two types are Omega-3 fatty acids or Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA).
Fish oil has proven to have many health benefits for humans, but it is most popularly reported to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and prevent heart disease.
Should You Be Adding Fish Oil To Pets Diet?
The answer is YES! Adding fish oil to pets’ diet is excellent, particularly for your dogs and cats. Whether you choose it in food form or a chewable tablet or capsule supplement, adding any fish oil will enhance your pet’s health.
Benefits of Giving Fish Oil To Pets:
Improve Skin or Coat
Fish oil contains Omega 3 fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin and a clean and shiny coat for your dog or cat. It keeps your pup’s fur from becoming dry and brittle. Fish oil also prevents excessive shedding by thickening the top layer of the skin so that dirt doesn’t stick to them as quickly.
Reduce Inflammation
Known to have anti-inflammatory properties, fish oil can help with diseases associated with inflammation, such as joint pains, arthritis (prevalent in older dogs), skin allergies and heart ailments. There are also studies showing fish oil helps with some forms of cancer by slowing down the growth of cancer tumours
Boost Brain/Cognitive Function
Fish oil, particularly DHA, is good for your pet’s brain development. Adding fish oil to pets diet can help them learn and retain various skills. It even supports a healthy mood and positive pet behaviour.
Furthermore, giving fish oil supplements to dogs with cognitive dysfunction (dementia in humans) helps improve their symptoms over time. Older dogs, for instance, don’t get disoriented easily and recognise family members better.
What To Do Before Adding Fish Oil To Pets Diet
Fish oil for pets has shown to have a variety of health benefits. However, before adding Omega 3 fatty acids food sources into your furbaby’s diet or any fish oil supplements, ALWAYS speak with your veterinarian. They can recommend the best type for your pet and discuss the side effects, making you and your pet dog or cat reap all the health rewards.
