How to Safely Add Fish Oil to Your Pet’s Daily Routine
How to Safely Add Fish Oil to Your Pet’s Daily Routine
If your dog’s coat has lost its shine or your cat has started scratching more than usual, it could be a sign their diet is missing something essential. Just like humans, pets benefit greatly from omega-3 fatty acids that support heart, brain, skin, and joint health. One simple addition to their routine can make a world of difference — a few drops of fish oil added to their daily meal.
At Wags & Whiskers Pet Supply, we offer two veterinarian-recommended options that make it easy to give your pet this nutritional boost: Native Pet Omega-3 Fish Oil for Dogs & Cats and Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Omega-3 Blend. Both are crafted with wild-caught Alaskan fish, designed for dogs and cats, and easy to blend into any food.
Why Omega-3 Matters for Dogs and Cats
Omega-3 fatty acids — particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) — are vital nutrients that most commercial pet foods simply don’t supply in high enough amounts. These fatty acids support cellular health, joint flexibility, immune balance, and healthy skin function. They also play a key role in brain and eye development for puppies and kittens, as well as cognitive support for senior pets.
According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), diets enriched with omega-3s can help reduce inflammation associated with arthritis and dermatitis, improve coat gloss, and even support heart health. That’s why many veterinarians now recommend daily fish oil supplementation as part of a preventive wellness plan.
Step 1: Choose a High-Quality Fish Oil
Not all fish oils are created equal. When shopping for your pet, look for sustainably sourced fish oil that’s cold-pressed and purified to remove toxins such as mercury and PCBs.
Native Pet Omega-3 Fish Oil for Dogs & Cats is made with Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil and delivers a fast-absorbing blend of omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids. It supports glossy coats, flexible joints, and a healthy heart. Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Omega-3 Blend combines pollock and salmon oils to provide a balanced omega-3 ratio and is especially helpful for reducing shedding and dry skin.
Quick Comparison
- Native Pet Omega-3: 100% Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil; light, clean taste; rich in DHA and EPA.
- Zesty Paws Omega-3 Blend: Salmon and Pollock Oils; slightly stronger aroma; excellent for improving coat softness.
- Both: Vet-approved, human-grade, free of artificial additives, and suitable for both dogs and cats.
Step 2: Find the Right Dosage for Your Pet
The right amount of fish oil depends on your pet’s size and diet. A general rule of thumb is 20–55 mg of EPA/DHA combined per pound of body weight daily. For example:
- 10 lb cat — around 250 mg total
- 40 lb dog — around 1,000–1,200 mg total
- 80 lb dog — around 2,000+ mg total
Always refer to the dosing instructions on your chosen product and consult your veterinarian for precise recommendations. Start gradually, especially for pets with sensitive stomachs.
Step 3: Make It Part of Mealtime
Both Native Pet and Zesty Paws oils are liquid, making them easy to drizzle directly onto food. Shake the bottle before use to distribute the nutrients evenly, and store it in a cool, dark place.
Begin with half the recommended serving for the first few days and then work up to the full dose. Because both products use pure, natural fish oil, most pets enjoy the flavor and quickly associate it with mealtime. Within weeks, you’ll notice visible improvements in coat shine, skin comfort, and energy.
Visible Benefits You’ll Notice
- Within 2 weeks: Reduced dry skin, less itching, and a subtle increase in coat gloss.
- Around 4 weeks: Softer fur, decreased shedding, and improved joint flexibility.
- 6–8 weeks: Enhanced overall comfort, better mobility in older pets, and more vibrant skin tone.
Omega-3 supplementation is cumulative — the longer it’s used consistently, the greater and more lasting the benefits. For best results, pair daily fish oil use with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Step 4: Stay Consistent and Track Progress
Consistency is the secret to success. The body builds up omega-3 levels gradually, so daily use delivers the most benefit. Keep an eye on your pet’s skin condition, coat quality, and mobility over several weeks. If your pet is older or managing inflammation, your vet may recommend maintaining the supplement long term.
Support the Whole Pet
Think of omega-3s as a foundation for whole-pet wellness. They complement good nutrition, daily activity, hydration, and regular veterinary visits. Together, these habits create a happier, healthier pet inside and out.
Ready to Get Started?
Small changes can have a big impact on your pet’s comfort and vitality. Adding a few drops of fish oil to their daily food routine is one of the easiest ways to boost health from nose to tail.
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