Is your cat dealing with itchy skin, stiff joints, or simply not as energetic as before? You’re not alone! Many pet parents turn to Omega-3 fatty acids to help their feline companions stay healthier and happier. These essential nutrients, primarily found in krill oil or fish oil for cats, offer a range of benefits — from promoting a shiny coat and supple joints to supporting heart and kidney function.
With the rising awareness of Omega-3’s benefits, it’s important to understand how they work. In this guide by Sploot Vets, we’ll cover the advantages and side effects of omega-3 supplements for cats. We will also go over a few vet-preferred supplement recommendations to help your furry friend thrive.
Can I Give My Cat Omega-3 Supplements?
Yes, you can give your cat omega-3 supplements, but it’s important to choose a high-quality product that’s intended for cats. We recommend consulting a vet to ensure proper product selection and dosing.
Cats need omega-3s from animal-based sources like fish and krill since they can’t efficiently convert plant-based omega-3s. As obligate carnivores, cats are naturally adapted to obtain nutrients from meat. Be sure to avoid omega-3 supplements designed for dogs or humans, as they may contain omega-3 from plants and/or inappropriate dosages for cats.
Is Fish Oil Good for Cats? [Benefits of Omega 3]
Generally, fish oil is beneficial for cats. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are vital for reducing inflammation; maintaining a healthy skin and coat; supporting heart, kidney, and joint health; and more.
Aside from fish oil, omega-3 for cats can also come from krill. If your cat is allergic to fish, krill oil can be a good alternative to try.
Does Your Cat Need Omega-3?
Omega-3 is vital for cats and a vast majority can benefit from supplementation. Consulting a vet is the best way to know if your cat needs omega-3 supplements. As a starting point, here are the ways that omega-3 can be used, preventatively and as a part of a treatment plan.
Preventative Uses of Omega-3 for Cats
Omega-3 helps in promoting good health and/or preventing illnesses and complications for the following:
- Growing kittens
- Senior cats
- Very active or outdoor cats
- Breeds that are prone to skin & coat problems
- Cats at risk of heart disease
- Cats that are prone to obesity
- Cats in high-stress environments
Omega-3 for Feline Health Issues
Sploot veterinarian, Dr. Sylvia Berns states that two common reasons she recommends fish oil for cats are to help modulate allergies and support kidney health.
She explains: ”A big reason our patients have environmental allergies is because their skin barrier is inadequate. If we strengthen the skin barrier with the help of fish oils, we can improve their allergic symptoms.”
She further states: “Another common reason I recommend fish oils is for kidney health — since cats are particularly predisposed to developing kidney disease.”
Omega-3 from fish oil can also be helpful in managing other conditions such as the following:
- Arthritis & joint problems
- Heart disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Diabetes & obesity
- Cancer
What are the Side Effects of Omega 3 for Cats?
Always consult a vet before starting any supplement, including fish oil for cats or multivitamins containing omega-3 for cats to avoid adverse reactions, which can include:
1. Allergies to the Source of Omega 3
Cats can be allergic to fish or krill, which are the main sources of omega-3 for cats. If your cat has fish oil or krill oil allergy, you will likely observe the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea & vomiting
- Itchy skin & excessive shedding
- Biting on their coat or skin
- Red, inflamed, or infected skin (a possible result of excessive scratching)
- Increased ear wax production or ear infections
2. Fish Oil Overdose in Cats
The typical dosage of omega-3 for healthy cats is around 30-50 mg per kg of body weight; meanwhile therapeutic doses (doses to help treat or manage health conditions) may be higher.
In any case, overdosing fish oil for cats is possible — which is why veterinary guidance is vital. Too much fish oil for cats can produce symptoms such as the following:
- Diarrhea & vomiting
- A fishy odor on their skin & breath
- Delayed wound healing
- Acute or chronic feline pancreatitis
5 Trusted Fish Oils & Omega 3 Supplements for Cats [Vet’s Picks]
If you think your feline companion can benefit from omega-3 supplementation, here are a few products to consider as you discuss options with a trusted vet. This list contains pure fish oil for cats, as well as cat multivitamins that have omega-3 as one of the main ingredients.
1. Welactin for Cats – Best for Overall Health Support
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code WELCOME
- Fish oil for cats
Welactin for Cats is a vet-trusted omega-3 supplement for cats that’s perfect for maintaining your cat’s overall health. It contains fish oil from cold water fish, providing EPA and DHA which helps keep your cat’s skin and coat shiny, support kidney function, and boost brain health. With positive reviews from pet parents, this is a reliable choice for any cat looking to benefit from omega-3 supplementation.
2. Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet ™ Liquid – Best for Multi-Pet Households
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code WELCOME
- Fish oil for cats
Nordic Naturals is a manufacturer of premium fish oils for both humans and pets. Their products are backed by the ‘Nordic Promise’ stating that the potency and purity of their ingredients have been tested and verified.
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet ™ Liquid for Dogs & Cats provides omega-3 fatty acids DHA & EPA from sardines and wild anchovies from the South Pacific Ocean. This product is safe for both dogs and cats, making it a great option for multi-pet households.
3. Krillex Joint Formula Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs – Best for Joint Support
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code WELCOME
- Soft chews containing omega-3 from krill oil
If your cat struggles with joint issues or arthritis, Krillex Joint Formula Soft Chews for Cats & Dogs is an excellent choice. These soft chews combine omega-3 fatty acids from krill oil, along with joint-supporting ingredients like chondroitin, glucosamine, and hyaluronic acid.
While omega-3 from krill oil has widespread benefits for the brain, heart, skin, kidney, and other systems — the other ingredients focus on maintaining great mobility and joint health. All in all, this is a great supplement for adult cats and senior cats.
4. Imuquin® Immune Health Supplement for Cats – Best for Immune Support
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code WELCOME
- A multivitamin for cats containing omega-3 fatty acids
For cats needing immune system support, Imuquin® is a multivitamin that provides omega-3s and other essential nutrients. Formulated with vitamins, minerals, beta-glucan, and DHA and EPA from marine lipids, this supplement strengthens your cat’s immune system and supports overall health, making it a great choice for kittens, seniors, or cats prone to illness.
5. Blue Buffalo® Healthy Living Adult Cat Food – Best for Daily Nutrition
- Available on SplootRX online pet pharmacy & pet supply store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code WELCOME
- Cat food containing omega-3 fatty acids & fish oil for cats
If you prefer introducing omega-3s through your cat’s regular diet, Blue Buffalo® Healthy Living Cat Food is a convenient option.
Blue Buffalo’s Healthy Living Cat Food is a cat food that contains omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil. This cat food line has different formulations for kittens, adult cats, and older cats — all containing fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids, and other healthy ingredients to keep your cat healthy and happy.
Note: Most cats do not respond well to an abrupt shift in their diet. If you’d like to try the above cat food with omega-3 fatty acids (or any other cat food), a gradual transition is recommended. Dr. Berns explains: “I normally recommend gradual transition over the course of 1-2 weeks to prevent gastrointestinal upset.”
Final Thoughts on Omega-3 or Fish Oil for Cats
Omega-3 supplements for cats have plenty of benefits to offer, spanning across multiple organs and systems — including the brain, heart, kidneys, joints, immune system, and more. However, it’s important to get a product that you can trust in terms of purity and quality control.
Note: If you’d like to find more vet-preferred fish oils for cats, check out SplootRX, your go-to online pet store and pharmacy for trusted pet care products!
Sploot Vets: Your Fear-Free Cat Vet for Complete Care
At Sploot Vets, we believe in more than just treating your pet — we believe in creating a stress-free, caring environment that promotes long-term health and well-being. Whether you’re seeking advice on omega-3 supplements for cats or need a full health check-up, our Fear Free certified vets are here to help.
Our vet clinics in Denver and Chicago are designed to offer all-in-one care for your pet. From routine check-ups and preventive care to urgent and emergency vet services, we have everything your cat needs under one roof. Plus, with our Fear Free approach and attention to detail, you can trust us to treat your pet like family.
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