There is growing evidence to support inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids in dog and cat diets. Benefits are reported for skin and coat conditions, immune support, nervous system development, aging, heart failure, renal insufficiency and others (Scott et al., 1997; Kearns et al., 1999; Waldron et al., 1998; Brown et al., 2000; and Freeman et al., 1998). Although little attention was given to omega-3 fatty acids in the 1985 and 1986 NRC publications for Dogs and Cats, respectively, the pending NRC publication identifies conditional requirements for nutritional support with omega-3 fatty acids.
Virtually all of the research on omega-3 fatty acids intended for dogs and cats has used flaxseed or fish oil; little data exists with fish meal as the omega-3 source. Although results would likely be similar for oil and meal, interference from proteins, structural lipids, ash and preservatives could have an impact. So why then does fish meal appear to be a leading source of omega-3s in pet foods?
