What essential fatty acids (EFAs) do dogs and cats need as supplements, and how do they work to help relieve inflammation associated with arthritis?
As our dogs and cats age, they are more and more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis and other joint problems. There are many natural and holistic ways to help keep our pets mobile and discomfort-free, and certain Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) play a supporting role. Let’s see how these EFAs can help relieve your dog or cat’s arthritis and improve their joint health.
Which fatty acids are essential for dogs and cats?
Only two fatty acids are essential for dogs: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid of plant origin) and linoleic acid (LA, an omega-6 fatty acid found in plants and animals). Cats also need arachidonic acid (an omega-6). From these fundamental molecules, the body theoretically manufactures the other fatty acids it needs.
In addition, two other fatty acids are considered essential during development (pregnancy, lactation and growth) – omega-3s, EPA and DHA (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid).
Theoretically, ALA is a precursor to EPA and DHA. However, carnivores like dogs and cats are not very good at performing this conversion. Newborn puppies can make DHA, but they lose this ability upon weaning. Dogs convert less than 5% of ALA to EPA and none to DHA. Chats are even more limited.
Although there is a large body of scientific evidence showing the importance of EPA and DHA for optimal health beyond the early stages of life, they are not technically essential. However, since EPA and DHA are extremely beneficial, let’s take a look at what they do and why you might want to add them to your dog or cat’s diet. Since we can be sure that no matter what our pets eat, they are getting enough ALA and Omega-6 from their diet, the only fatty acids they really need are Omega-3.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 – their relationship to inflammation
Omega-3 fatty acids are called “anti-inflammatory” and omega-6 “pro-inflammatory” because of the way they are used in the body to make certain hormone-like compounds: one pathway suppresses and the other promotes inflammation. However, it is not as simple as it seems. For example, GLA (gamma-linoleic acid) is an omega-6, but it is anti-inflammatory. Arachidonic acid can contribute to either pathway. But as a general rule, omega-6s — especially in excess amounts compared to omega-3s — are more likely to cause inflammation.
The ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the diet is important. Fatty acid imbalances are linked to many serious health conditions, such as allergies, cancer, heart disease, asthma, and arthritis. One study found that the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in commercial cat foods ranged from 6:1 to 27:1, while the ratio in natural wild cat diets was estimated at 1:1 to 2. : 1 – quite a difference!
Omega-3 for arthritis
Inflammation is at the root of most degenerative diseases of aging. Conditions involving inflammation often end with “it is” – arthritis, pancreatitis, dermatitis, etc. EPA has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is useful in preventing and moderating many, if not most, inflammatory conditions.
- Research suggests that omega-3s have a direct beneficial effect on degenerative diseases, including arthritis, by slowing the rate at which telomeres (the protective caps at the ends of DNA packed into chromosomes) get shorter. Telomeres have a similar function to the plastic ends of shoelaces; they prevent the ends of the chromosomes from “fraying” or being damaged. Telomeres are significantly shortened in patients with arthritis.
- Supplemental omega-3s have also been found to improve cartilage health, an important factor in the treatment of arthritis.
- The addition of omega-3s increases the benefits of glucosamine supplements.
- EPA accumulates in joint fluid and can exert an anti-inflammatory effect directly in the joint.
Because dogs and cats cannot produce as much EPA and DHA as they need from ALA, marine oils are the best way to supplement them with essential fatty acids. The best omega-3 supplements come from wild (not farmed) salmon, non-predatory fish like sardines and anchovies, or green-lipped mussels. Cod liver oil is a good source of EPA and DHA; but be aware that human products contain added vitamins A and D, which may cause toxicity in small animals.
Omega-3 fatty acids are an important supplement for cats and dogs. Young, old, healthy, sick, skinny, fat, all pets can benefit from these powerful nutrients.