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03/19/08

Omega-3s – good for people, and probably good for pets
Dr. Eric Barchas, DVM

A mounting body of evidence suggests that fish oil (which contains omega-3 fatty acids) has numerous health benefits for people. And an article in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) suggests that fish oil and omega-3s may be good for pets, too.

Research suggests that omega-3s may: help to support the kidneys and heart, enhance skin and coat quality, reduce symptoms of allergies, reduce the prevalence of auto-immune disease, prevent and treat arthritis, and support neurological development of juvenile animals. Other sources suggest that omega-3s may help to prevent cancer.

Before you dash to the store to buy omega-3s for your pet, I should point out that the key word in the above paragraph is may. More research is necessary to determine optimum doses and blends of omega-3s.

Talk to your vet before supplementing your pet’s diet with fish oil, and be sure to use a product designed for cats or dogs. And remember, fish oil is oil, and oil can be fattening. In this case, too much of a good thing could contribute to a weight problem.

For reference, the paper cited in this post is J Am Vet Med Assoc 2007;231:1657-1661

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There are 4 Comments

  1. susan allport posted a comment on March 20th, 2008 at 4:48 am

    Thought you’d be interested in this short omega-3 video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIgNpsbvcVM

  2. Meredith posted a comment on March 22nd, 2008 at 2:24 am

    I give all of my dogs salmon oil in the fall/winter and their coats are absolutely gorgy! Ask any dog musher and they are sure to tell you all the benefits feeding fish oil. I personally love it!

  3. What are the secrets to treating arthritis? posted a comment on March 26th, 2008 at 5:43 am

    […] their own) symptoms of arthritis are less pronounced when these supplements are offered. As well, omega-3 supplements may help to ease arthritis pain. There is still some debate among experts about the efficacy of oral […]

  4. Study to Assess Link Between Nutrition and Behavior—In Humans posted a comment on April 12th, 2008 at 5:54 am

    […] their official daily requirements of vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids (such as omega-3s) or placebos . . . [t]hose who received the extra nutrients committed 26.3% fewer offences than […]

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