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As part of the Research Spotlight series on WholisticMatters, “Omega-3 Dosing in Pets” highlights the need for including omega-3 fatty acids in the diet of both dogs and cats, as well as the benefits associated with the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Because omega-3 fatty acids are not synthesized in sufficient quantities in the body and conversion remains inefficient or nonexistent, providing DHA and EPA through the diet is very important. They have been demonstrated to help improve specific conditions often seen in dogs and cats and are essential for brain development in both puppies and kittens.

Targeting a safe and efficacious dose is vital to achieving benefits in cats and dogs. The minimum amount of EPA and DHA recommended for growth and reproduction is 10 mg/100 kcal for dogs and 3 mg/100 kcal for cats. Other dosage recommendations to achieve benefits vary depending on the condition, ranging from 69 mg/kg up to 810 mg/kg for dogs with osteoarthritis and heart failure, respectively.