Fatty Acids are Essential for a Healthy Coat

Essential fatty acids play a vital role in overall good health and are particularly beneficial for the skin of dogs and cats. They help to create a protective barrier in the skin to block out irritants and infections and also reduce inflammation. A deficiency in certain types of fatty acids can result in a dull, dry coat that is susceptible to irritations and allergic episodes.

Extensive research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation—which many experts consider to be the root cause of most chronic diseases. However, it is very important for your dog or cat to maintain a balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in its diet since omega-3s help reduce inflammation, while an over-abundance of most omega-6s tend to promote inflammation.

Consequently, an inappropriate balance of these essential fatty acids contributes to health problems, while a proper balance helps maintain and improve your pet's health.

Let's Get Technical

For instance, when a cell membrane is damaged (this typically occurs on an on-going basis and is a natural part of life) fatty acids including arachidonic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid), are produced. These are further metabolized to produce chemicals called eicosanoids, which cause inflammation, and can result in arthritis, itching or other allergic symptom.

But because Mother Nature strives for balance, if your dog or cat has an adequate supply of omega 3s, eicosapentaenoic acid (an omega-3 fatty acid) will produce anti-inflammatory eicosanoids called prostaglandins and leukotreines. These, in turn, decrease the harmful effects of inflammatory eicosanoids.

• Prostaglandins are hormones that govern cellular responses, immune function and hormone synthesis. They are also involved in inflammatory response, fat metabolism, growth and tissue repair, and energy production.
• Leukotreines regulate allergic and inflammatory conditions.

What this Really Means

Supplementation with omega 3 fatty acids can be beneficial in inflammatory disorders by regulating your pet's eicosanoid production … which means your pet may find relief from itching and pain.

Learn more about how Essential Fatty Acids can help with numerous health conditions that affect dogs and cats (food allergies, dermatitis, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases).

Suggested products containing high quality sources of Omega 3 fatty acids:

Ultimate Skin and Coat

Kelp Help

Super EPA

Septiderm Skin and Coat Supplement

NaturVet's Kelp Help and Ultimate Skin and Coat Supplement and Septiderm Skin and Coat are three products that deliver a high quality source of fatty acids. Plus, they are fortified with vitamins and minerals that are important for maintaining normal digestion and optimal health.

If you are already giving your pet a vitamin supplement and want just the Omega 3 fatty acids, try Super EPA from Thorne Research. 

Ultimate Skin and Coat from NaturVet

Formulated with only the highest quality, all natural active ingredients, Ultimate Skin and Coat by NaturVet combines the benefits of natural Omega 3, 6 & 9 Fatty Acids for healthy skin and a glossy coat. Fortified with biotin, vitamins, and minerals important to maintain normal digestion and for overall health.

To purchase or read more about Ultimate Skin and Coat..

Kelp Help from NaturVet

Kelp Help combines the benefits of natural Omega 3, 6, and 9 Fatty Acids for healthy skin and a glossy coat, as well as being fortified with ESSENTIAL vitamins and minerals important to maintain normal digestion and proper vitamin utilization.

To purchase or read more about Kelp Help...

Septiderm-V Skin and Coat Supplemet from GreenTree

A high quality dietary supplement with Omega 3, 6 & 9 Fatty Acids from natural sources fortified with vitamins for healthy skin and a glossy coat on your pet. Relieves itching, dull coat and excessive shedding when caused by dietary (fatty acid and/or vitamin) deficiency.

Contains no hormones or antihistamines and may be fed as needed to control itching, or every day for a beautiful coat.

To purchase or read more about Septiderm-V Skin and Coat Supplement...

Super EPA from Thorne Research

Super EPA is a fish oil concentrate that is a superior source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omege-3s are needed to help prevent skin from drying and cracking and they are also an anti-inflammatory.  This will improve the quality of your pet’s coat and reduce the swelling and wounding associated with biting and scratching.

To purchase or read more about Super EPA..

For more information, see our section on Skin Conditions in Dogs and Cats.