|
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are an
essential part of your pet’s diet. Omega fatty acids are necessary
for normal body functions. They may also be used as a supplement if your
pet is suffering from a skin disorder such as eczema or allergies.
Why are they “Essential?”
They are deemed essential because there are some Omega-3 and Omega-6
fatty acids that your pet cannot make itself. These fatty acids must
be obtained in your pet’s diet. Dogs are unable to make Linoleic
Acid, which is an Omega-6 fatty acid, while cats are unable to make
Linoleic and Arachindonic acids.
So what are these acids and where do they come from?
|
Name
|
Source
|
Pet Medication
|
|
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
|
|
Alpha-Linolenic
|
Flax seed, pumpkin seed, soybean oil
|
|
|
Eicosapentaenoic
|
Marine fish oil
|
Retinoid therapy, eczema, autoimmune disease, seborrheic dermatitis,
cholesterol reducer
|
|
Docosahexaenoic
|
Marine fish oil
|
Retinoid therapy, eczema
|
|
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
|
|
Linoleic
|
Evening primrose oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, soybean oil,
corn oil, poultry and pork fats
|
Dry skin, skin rashes, dull coat, seborrheic dermatitis
|
|
Arachidonic
|
Animal fats
|
|
|
Gamma-Linolenic
|
Evening primrose oil, borage oil, black current seed oil
|
Eczema, autoimmune disease, seborrheic dermatitis
|
Linoleic Acid helps to maintain the skin and coat of your pet and also
acts as an anti-inflammatory. When this essential acid is lacking, your
pet’s coat will be dull and dry. Your pet may also have skin irritation
that can be made worse by allergic conditions.
Arachidonic acid helps to regulate skin growth, allows for proper blood
clotting and helps the reproductive and gastrointestinal systems function
properly. Arachidonic acid is found in animal fats and because cats are
unable to make arachidonic acid, they are considered carnivores and must
have a diet of meat; they are unable to survive on a diet that consists
strictly of plants. Dogs, on the other hand are considered omnivores,
which means that they can survive on a diet of both meat and plant material.
How do I know my pet needs a fatty acid supplement?
The best way to know if your pet needs a fatty acid supplement is to
talk to your veterinarian. Generally, a pet that needs a fatty acid
supplement will have dry, flaky skin and his coat will be dull and
greasy with a coarse texture.
My pet needs a fatty acid supplement, but
which one do I choose?
They type of fatty acid your pet needs depends on his specific condition.
Talk to your veterinarian to determine which supplement is right for
your pet.
|
