Evolution of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Canine & Feline Diets
Omega-3 Essentials
All Natural Vitamins A & D
Clinical References
Omega-3 Essentials
by: Sally Perea, D.V.M., M.S., D.A.C.V.N.

Omega-3 fatty acids are considered essentials fatty acids (EFAs) for humans, as well as for dogs and cats, because they cannot be made
in the body. In order to maintain optimal health and wellness, these
fatty acids must be obtained through diet or supplementation.

EPA and DHA are necessary structural components of cell membranes. These functional, health-promoting fatty acids maintain the cell
membrane fluidity and permeability needed for healthy functioning cells.

The two health-promoting omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic
acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are long
chain omega-3 fatty acids found abundantly in fish. Flax seed oil
contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a shorter chain omega-3 fatty
acid that requires the enzyme delta-6 desaturase to convert ALA
to EPA and DHA in the body.

Humans and dogs have limited ability to convert ALA to EPA and DHA². Cats, on the other hand, have less ability to convert ALA to EPA and DHA³. Therefore, supplementation with high quality omega-3 fish oil is recommended for humans, dogs, and cats.

One of the key functions of the omega-3 fatty acid EPA is supporting the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response. Dogs and cats can suffer from numerous inflammatory conditions that can affect their health and well-being. Studies have shown supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids from fish supports dogs and cats with inflammatory conditions associated with the skin, joints, kidneys, and heart^4-9. In addition, EPA is known to
promote healthy triglyceride (fat) levels within the blood of dogs⁴.

In puppies and kittens, the omega-3 fatty acid DHA plays a key role in neurological (brain) and retinal (eye) development^4,10. Studies have
shown that feeding pregnant dogs omega-3 fatty acid-enriched foods
during gestation and lactation provides needed DHA to their puppies¹⁰. Puppies weaned onto foods with DHA have improved electroretinographic responses (a measurement of the electrical response of the retina in the eye to light stimulation), and improved responses to training tests^{2, 10}. Studies in humans have shown that omega-3 fatty acids may be
beneficial in maintaining normal cognitive function later in life¹¹.
2. Dunbar BL, Bauer JE. Conversion of essential fatty acids by delta 6-desaturase in dog liver microsomes. J Nutr 2002;132:1701S–1703S.

3. Bauer JE. Fatty acid metabolism in domestic cats (Felis catus) and cheetahs (Acinoyx jubatas). Proceedings of the Nutrition Society 1997;56:1013–1024.

4. Bauer JE. Responses of dogs to dietary omega-3 fatty acids. J Amer Vet Med Assoc 2007;11:1657–1661.

5. Brown SA, Brown CA, Crowell WA, et al. Effects of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation in early renal insufficiency in dogs. J Lab Clin Med 2000;135:275–286.