By Fabian Barcelo, Founder & Veterinary Scientist
Vet-reviewed
Few nutrients get as much attention in pet health as omega-3 fatty acids, and for good reason. From skin and coat to joints and beyond, these essential fats play a role across the body. At Innovet, omega-3s feature in several of our pet supplements, and this guide explains what they do for dogs and cats and how to use them well.
01What are omega-3 fatty acids?
Omega-3s are essential fats, meaning the body cannot make enough of them and they must come from the diet. The most useful forms for pets are EPA and DHA, found mainly in marine sources such as fish and algae, while ALA from some plant oils is converted only inefficiently. This is why fish-based sources tend to be favoured.
02Why omega-3 matters for dogs and cats
Omega-3s support the skin barrier and contribute to a soft, glossy coat, which is why they feature so heavily in skin and coat care. They also help maintain a normal inflammatory response, which is part of why they appear in joint support too. As always, this is nutritional support rather than a cure for any specific condition.
Omega-3 is one active among several that matter here. If you want the full picture of how it sits alongside zinc, protein, vitamin E and biotin, our guide to skin and coat supplements for dogs and cats is the place to start, and it routes you to the right article for your pet's specific symptom.
03Fish oil and other sources
Fish oil is the most familiar source of EPA and DHA and is generally well absorbed. Freshness matters a great deal, as omega-3s can spoil, so quality and proper storage are important. Algae-based options exist for a marine-free alternative. Whatever the source, look for a product that is transparent about how much EPA and DHA it provides.
Green-lipped mussel is worth knowing about as a marine source too, because alongside EPA and DHA it carries an uncommon omega-3 called ETA. Our guide to green-lipped mussel for dogs and cats covers what the evidence shows.
04The omega-3 and omega-6 balance
Many everyday pet diets are comparatively rich in omega-6 and lighter on omega-3. Topping up omega-3 helps support a healthier balance between the two, which is part of why supplementation can make a visible difference to skin and coat.
The active forms
EPA and DHA do the heavy lifting
These are the marine-derived omega-3s pets use most readily. Plant-based ALA must be converted first and only inefficiently, so a fresh, marine source with EPA and DHA listed by amount is the dependable choice.
05Choosing and dosing
Dose to your pet's weight and follow the product guidance rather than guessing, since more is not always better. A transparently dosed skin and coat supplement such as Skin & Coat+ takes the guesswork out, and our guide to a shiny, healthy coat shows how omega-3s fit the bigger picture.
A marine source
EPA and DHA from fish or algae are the forms pets absorb and use most readily.
Amounts you can see
Look for EPA and DHA listed by weight per serve, not just a vague omega blend.
Fresh and well stored
Omega-3s spoil, so freshness and proper storage protect the active fats.
Dosed to weight
Match the amount to your pet's body weight and follow the label rather than estimating.
06Vet guidance
Check with your vet before starting, particularly if your pet has a health condition such as a history of pancreatitis or a bleeding disorder, or takes other medication. Your vet can confirm a safe amount for your individual pet.
More is not better with omega-3. Follow the label, dose to weight, and speak with your vet first if your pet has a health condition or takes other medication.
For the complete picture on supporting skin and coat through nutrition, including which active does what and when a symptom needs a vet rather than a supplement, read our Australian guide to skin and coat supplements for dogs and cats.
Frequently asked questions
Can I give my dog human fish oil?
It is better to use a product formulated and dosed for pets, so you can match the amount to your dog's weight. Check with your vet if you are considering a human product.
How much omega-3 does my pet need?
It depends on body weight and the product's concentration, so follow the label and your vet's advice rather than estimating.
Is fish oil safe for cats?
Yes, when correctly dosed and fresh. Cats often benefit from omega-3 support for skin and coat, but confirm the amount with your vet.
Does omega-3 help with more than the coat?
It is also used to support a normal inflammatory response, which is why it appears in joint support. It is supportive nutrition rather than a treatment.
Omega-3 support, clearly dosed
Skin & Coat+ delivers transparent essential-fatty-acid support for skin and coat.
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