The 9 Best Omega 3 Fish Oil For Cats
- July 10, 2023
- By Dr. Kathleen Champ
Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for the health of cats, are abundantly present in fish oil.
This vital nutrient comprises two types of fatty acids, namely eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA), that are commonly found in coldwater fish such as tuna, trout, and salmon.
These fatty acids play a crucial role in the development of cell membranes and energy production in cats' bodies.
Fish oil supplements not only support these vital activities but also promote a healthy immune system and help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat.
BestForPets has carefully selected the top omega-3 fish oils for cats on the market to help cat owners make informed choices for their feline friends.
Keep reading to discover our top picks and improve your cat's overall health and well-being.
Vet Approved
Reviewed & Fact - Checked by
Deborah R. Fletcher (DVM)
VeterinarianThe information provided is current and up-to-date, in line with the latest research conducted in the field of veterinary medicine.
Read more
Reviews
1. Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil For Dogs & Cats by Zesty Paws
Zesty Paws is a reputable provider of pet products, including supplements like wild Alaskan salmon oil for dogs and cats.
This supplement is rich in EPA and DHA and is formulated to support hip, joint, heart, and immune functions in pets.
Each teaspoon of this supplement contains 850mg of omega-3 fatty acids derived from genuine wild Alaskan salmon oil (4.5g).
The liquid form of this supplement makes it easy to incorporate into your cat’s diet, and the real salmon flavor is sure to be a hit with your cat.
Zesty Paws is America’s #1-selling dog supplement brand on Amazon, and this salmon oil supplement is perfect for cats and dogs.
The healthy omega fatty acids in this premium fish oil formula promote overall health and wellness in pets.
In addition to supporting hip, joint, heart, and immune functions, the rich omegas in salmon oil nourish the skin and coat, helping your pet stay looking and feeling great every day.
This supplement is perfect for pet parents looking for an alternative to capsules, raw treats, or soft chews. It can be easily mixed with any meal.
DHA and EPA are important omega-3 fatty acids.
Liquid form is simple to administer.
Helps with joint, hip, heart, and immune system health.
Made in the United States from wild-caught Alaskan salmon.
Fish odor is really strong.
2. TerraMax Premium Omega-3 Fish Oil For Pets
TerraMax Pro is a trusted provider of pet supplements, including this high-quality fish-oil supplement for dogs and cats.
This liquid supplement is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids derived from sardines, herring, anchovies, and mackerel and is formulated to support overall health and wellness in pets.
This pharmaceutical-grade supplement contains at least 800mg EPA and 525mg DHA per serving and has been molecularly distilled for purity and potency. It is mercury-free and has no detectable quantities of PCBs, heavy metals, or pesticides.
TerraMax Pro’s fish-oil supplement is 100% safe and natural, derived entirely from wild-caught fish caught exclusively in Icelandic waters using sustainable fishing practices.
The fish oil is carefully crafted from deep-sea, cold-water fish and is independently tested for more than 250 contaminants at a third-party laboratory.
This supplement is veterinarian-recommended and suitable for dogs and cats of all ages, sizes, breeds, and activity levels.
Adding TerraMax Pro’s Premium Omega-3 Fish Oil to your pet’s diet helps support healthy skin, coat, joints, heart, and the development and maintenance of the brain, eyes, and immune system.
It may also help promote weight loss and reduce allergies. TerraMax Pro offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not completely satisfied with the product, you can get your money back with no questions asked.
EPA and DHA levels that are guaranteed
Ingredients that are completely safe and natural
Premium sardines, herring, anchovies, and mackerel are included.
Contains no mercury, heavy metals, or pesticides.
Pump may not function properly.
3. Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Cat Liquid Supplement
Nordic Naturals is a trusted provider of pet supplements, including this highly concentrated fish oil supplement for cats and small breed dogs.
This supplement is distilled for purity and evaluated for safety by third-party laboratories and is derived only from wild anchovies and sardines.
Omega-3 Pet features liquid omega-3 fish oil and contains assured amounts of DHA and EPA to benefit your cat’s skin, coat, heart, and joints.
Research shows that the essential fatty acids EPA and DHA in fish oil help support your pet’s heart, skin, coat, immune system, and joint health.
All of Nordic Naturals’ omega-3 fish oils are in the triglyceride molecular form for optimal absorption.
This supplement comes in a sturdy glass bottle that protects the product’s integrity and includes a convenient dropper for easy administration. Simply measure out the correct dose and drop it directly onto your cat’s food.
Nordic Naturals is committed to using only non-GMO, gluten-free, and dairy-free ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Every batch of Nordic Naturals’ fish oil is crafted from fresh, wild-caught, omega-rich fish to ensure both purity and quality.
Nordic Naturals has always been at the forefront of sustainable and ethical practices in the natural products industry.
Their fish oils are Friend of the Sea certified, ensuring that they are sourced from sustainable and responsible fishing practices.
Give your cat the best with Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet, made with the same exceptional quality oil as their human products and specially formulated for your furry friend’s health and wellness.
Please use only Nordic Naturals’ pet products for your cat or dog and not for human use.
The labelled eyedropper makes proper dosing simple.
Contains only wild anchovies and sardines.
Helps cats have healthy skin and coats.
There are no artificial colors or tastes in this product.
There is a distinct fish odor.
The bottle only holds 2 fluid ounces.
4. Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil For Cats by Vital Pet Life
Vital Pet Life's Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Supplement is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids derived from salmon oil, which is mercury-free and an excellent way to support your pet’s immune system.
This formula is specifically designed to reduce scratching and discharge, making it an excellent choice for pets with dry skin, itching, flaking, shedding, and allergies.
The essential fatty acids contained in salmon oil can help reduce itching and scratching, making your pet happier and allowing them to play more comfortably.
The omega-3 fatty acids in this supplement also support joint and bone health, helping to reduce inflammation, joint problems, and arthritis.
The formula contains only omega-3 fatty acids, which can be beneficial for some pets but may not be suitable for all pets depending on their individual needs.
Vital Pet Life’s Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Supplement is sustainably sourced, helping to preserve healthy ocean ecosystems and protect seafood supplies for future generations.
The formula is produced in accordance with strict safety standards in the United States.
If your pet has a dull, dry, or coarse coat, this supplement can help support healthy skin and result in a soft, shiny, and smooth coat.
Vital Pet Life is a woman-owned small business run and operated in the USA, so you can trust that their product is of the highest quality.
One of the most cost-effective solutions on the market
MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) sustainability certification
Excellent for a gleaming coat
Some reviewers have expressed concern about a drop in product quality.
5. Omegease Omega-Rich Fish Oil Dog & Cat Supplement is the best for pets
Finest For Pets' Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement is the perfect addition to your pet’s diet, providing 100% pure, natural, human-grade omega-3, 6, and 9 fish oil from wild-caught sardines, anchovies, herring, and mackerel in the clean seas of the North Atlantic.
This supplement is high in DHA and EPA, with one teaspoon containing 800mg of EPA and 525mg of DHA, which is higher than the levels found in most salmon oils.
It readily mixes with your cat’s food and adds a tempting flavor that they will love, with virtually no fishy smell, thanks to the removal of any traces of mercury and other toxins during purification.
Finest For Pets’ Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement helps support your pet’s skin, coat or fur, joints, heart, brain, and immune health.
The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in this supplement soothe dry, itchy skin and reduce joint pain and inflammation, respectively, while the omega-9 fatty acids improve heart and brain function.
Scientific research has shown that the omega-3 fatty acids in this supplement have been shown to improve immune responses and reduce allergies.
Dogs and cats both enjoy this delicious health-boosting oil, and Finest For Pets offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and provides their contact information on every label.
This supplement is bottled in the USA in a GMP-certified facility and third-party tested to ensure its purity, so you can be confident that you are giving your pet the highest-quality oil possible.
It comes with two pumps and a flip-top cap for easy use.
There are three sizes available, each with a pump applicator.
Made with wild, sustainably harvested fish oil
DHA and EPA levels are high.
Anchovies, sardines, herring, and mackerel oil
Some cats dislike the taste.
Smaller sizes cost more per ounce.
6. Iceland Pure Pet Supplies Salmon Oil, Pharmaceutical Grade, Unscented
Iceland Pure ‘s pharmaceutical-grade salmon oil for cats is the perfect supplement to soothe dry and itchy skin from the inside out.
This unscented, natural fish oil supplement supports the skin, coat, hips and joints, heart, and immune system.
It is formulated with a single ingredient: high-potency Norwegian salmon oil rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, essential nutrients that promote heart health and overall wellbeing in cats.
This salmon oil supplement is available in three different sizes, all of which come in eco-friendly brushed aluminum bottles with a convenient pump.
The mixture has been ultra-filtered, minimizing the fishy odor while preserving the natural flavor that cats love. Iceland Pure’s Salmon Oil is quality assured, using pharmaceutical-grade ingredients high in EPA and DHA.
These essential fatty acids promote healthy skin and hair, as well as flexible joints in cats. The healthy fats nourish cats’ skin to relieve itching, paw licking, and dryness, potentially leading to a soft, silky coat.
This supplement may also reduce the risk of cancer, kidney failure, and heart disease, making it an excellent choice for cats of all ages.
The oils for cats are free from genetically modified material (GMO-free) and components, ensuring the highest quality and purity.
In summary, Iceland Pure’s Pharmaceutical Grade Salmon Oil for Cats is a premium-quality supplement that helps relieve dry and itchy skin, boosts the immune system, supports healthy skin and hair, and promotes flexible joints.
It is formulated with a single, natural ingredient, high-potency Norwegian salmon oil, and is free from genetically modified material.
To reduce the fishy stench, it has been ultra-filtered.
EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids, are abundant.
Norwegian salmon oil was used as the sole natural ingredient.
Brushed metal bottle that is non-toxic and eco-friendly.
There have been several concerns concerning the pump.
Some cats may object to the unscented formula.
7. Wild Caught, GMO-Free Omega 3 Fish Oil For Cats by Deley Naturals
Deley Naturals' Wild Caught Omega-3 Fish Oil for Cats is an excellent supplement that helps improve your cat’s immune health and cardiovascular function while reducing joint stiffness, allergies, itchy skin, and excessive shedding.
Our GMO-free formula contains 100% pure fish oil derived from anchovies, mackerel, sardines, and herring caught in the pristine North Atlantic. It is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which deliver high levels of EPA and DHA with no mercury content.
Our all-natural, sustainably sourced liquid fish oil supplement has virtually no odor but has a delicious fish flavor that all cats love, making it easy for cat owners to use. It comes with a pump top that allows for a mess-free way to support your cat’s diet compared to other fish oil supplements for cats.
Deley Naturals takes pride in manufacturing the best supplements for your cats, ensuring that our fish oil is GMO-free and processed in an FDA-registered facility in the USA.
Our Omega-3 fish oil exceeds all requirements set by California’s Proposition 65 and all US and European Pharmacopoeia standards.
In summary, Deley Naturals’ Wild Caught Omega-3 Fish Oil for Cats is a premium-quality supplement that helps improve your cat’s immune health and cardiovascular function while reducing joint stiffness, allergies, itchy skin, and excessive shedding.
It is derived from sustainably sourced fish, is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and is easy for cat owners to use with a delicious fish flavor that all cats love.
Aids in the reduction of irritation and excessive shedding
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are abundant.
Anchovy, mackerel, sardine, and herring are the main ingredients.
A 100% satisfaction guarantee is provided.
Not suitable for cats with delicate stomachs.
8. Alaska Wild Salmon Oil Soft Chews 21st Century Essential Pet
Essential Pet Products' Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Soft Chews are a veterinarian-approved alternative to liquid supplements for your cat.
Each soft chew contains 20mg of EPA and 25mg of DHA, along with omega-3 fatty acids derived from wild Alaskan salmon.
These chews are formulated with a variety of delicious ingredients, including cheese, liver, and a generous amount of wild Alaskan salmon oil.
Your cat will enjoy the silky texture of each bite, which is packed with human-grade ingredients.
These soft chews address the nutritional needs that contribute to a shiny, lustrous coat and healthy and smooth skin.
They are formulated with salmon oil from the pristine waters of Alaska and are designed to deliver EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids in bite-sized soft chews.
Essential Pet Products’ Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Soft Chews are made with human-grade ingredients in an FDA-registered facility, ensuring their safety.
They are manufactured in the USA under strict manufacturing standards and are analyzed under strict laboratory procedures at an ISO 17025-verified facility, providing quality assurance and testing procedures.
Overall, Essential Pet Products’ Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Soft Chews are a premium-quality supplement for your cat’s nutritional needs.
They are formulated with delicious ingredients, including wild Alaskan salmon oil, and are designed to deliver EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids in bite-sized soft chews.
They are made with human-grade ingredients in an FDA-registered facility and are quality-assured and tested for your peace of mind.
The primary ingredient is wild Alaskan salmon oil.
Each mouthful contains 20mg EPA and 25mg DHA.
Soft, bite-sized chews are simple to use.
Contains unidentified components such as liver meal
Brewer’s dried yeast is a byproduct of the beer business.
9. Fatty Acid Capsules in Free Form for Small Dogs and Cats
Free Form's Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsules are a premium-quality supplement that provides assured quantities of DHA and EPA in a convenient capsule format.
Each capsule contains 262mg of EPA and 172mg of DHA and is intended for cats weighing 5 to 14 pounds.
These capsules are a convenient alternative to liquid supplements, or you can snip the capsule tip and squeeze the liquid directly onto your cat’s food.
The creators of vet-recommended Advantage flea and tick protection developed and tested Free Form’s Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsules to ensure their quality and effectiveness.
They provide a daily dose of Omega-3 fish oil for small dogs and cats weighing 5 to 60 pounds, supporting overall health and wellness, including sensitive skin, eyes, joints, brain, heart, and kidney health.
These highly concentrated capsules mean fewer capsules are needed to achieve the desired dosage, making it easy for cat owners to administer.
The fish oil is harvested from small, non-predatory fish, such as anchovies, ensuring a source of fish that is renewable.
Developed and tested by the creators of vet-recommended Advantage flea and tick protection, these capsules support overall health and wellness, including sensitive skin, eyes, joints, brain, heart, and kidney health.
Their highly concentrated formula means fewer capsules are needed to achieve the desired dosage, and the fish oil is sourced from a renewable fish source.
DHA and EPA levels are guaranteed.
Snip the tip of the liquid administer
Support the health of your skin, eyes, joints, brain, heart, and kidneys.
The source of the fish oil is not mentioned.
Some cats may refuse capsules.
Why Should You Give Fish Oil Supplements to Your Cat?
Cats, like people, require a well-balanced diet that includes an adequate supply of essential fatty acids.
An essential fatty acid is one that your cat’s body cannot produce on its own. Cats require omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can be obtained from food sources or nutritional supplements.
Omega-3 fatty acids include alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), while omega-6 fatty acids include linoleic acid (LA) and arachidonic acid (AA).
Omega-3 fatty acids improve the health of the skin and coat while also helping the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response.
Omega-3 fatty acids, with their anti-inflammatory properties, can be beneficial for cats suffering from joint disease, arthritis, heart disease, renal disease, and other conditions.
Cold-water fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, cod, and anchovies are the best sources of these fatty acids, but an omega-3 supplement is an excellent way to improve your cat’s daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
What Are the Benefits?
If you’re looking for a simple solution to address an omega-3 deficiency or to support your cat’s overall health, a fish oil supplement may be a smart choice. Here are some of the benefits:
1. Endorsed by vets: According to recent research, fish oil is beneficial in treating allergic skin diseases in pets as well as certain types of cancer. The VCA also recommends it for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, renal disease, heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and diabetes.
2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Omega-3 fatty acids help the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response and can assist in the treatment of a range of inflammatory diseases.
3. Supports brain health: Because DHA is essential for eye and brain development in kittens, adding fish oil to pregnant or nursing cats may help kittens develop normally. It also helps adult cats maintain cognitive function.
4. Reduces shedding: A balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids promotes a shiny, healthy coat and reduces shedding. Controlling your cat’s shedding may also reduce hairball problems.
5. Relieves itching: Omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coats and are known to alleviate the symptoms of skin allergies in cats. They can also help treat dry skin and other causes of itching and scratching.
The benefits of fish oil supplements depend on their quality. Look for pure, high-quality fish oil from a reputable provider when purchasing omega-3 supplements for your cat.
Avoid fish oil derived from cod liver since it often contains vitamin A, which can be hazardous to cats in excessive doses.
Check the expiration date as well, because fish oil is highly oxidative, and you don’t want to offer your cat a product that has gone bad.
As highlighted in the article “Omega 3 Fish Oil For Cats: Benefits, Dosage, And How To Choose The Best One For Cats,” it’s crucial to check the expiration date of any fish oil supplement for your cat, as it is highly oxidative and can go bad.
FAQs
1. What brand of fish oil is best for cats?
Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil is the top choice for cats due to its nutrient-dense formula. Made with wild Alaskan Salmon, it is rich in omega-3 and 6 fatty acids and supports healthy coat, skin, brain, heart, and immune system function.
2. What omega-3 is good for cats?
Cats benefit from EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, with a recommended daily amount of 25-30 mg/kg of DHA and 40 mg/kg of EPA for dogs. However, cats require more DHA than EPA for optimal health.
3. Are omega-3 capsules good for cats?
Yes, omega-3 supplements offer many benefits to cats, including healthier skin and a shiny coat. Omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties that make them an effective choice for cats with allergies, dry skin, or hotspots.
4. What are the side effects of omega-3 fish oil in cats?
At high doses, potential side effects of omega-3 supplements in cats can include diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and changes in blood clotting. However, these side effects typically resolve after discontinuing the supplement.
5. Should I give my cat fish oil everyday?
Yes, it is safe and beneficial to give cats fish oil every day. Fatty acids found in fish oil are essential for good body maintenance and cannot be produced by the body. As such, cats must obtain them from their diet.
6. Can cats have human omega-3 fish oil?
It is not recommended to give cats human omega-3 fish oil. Instead, cats should be given fish oil supplements that are specially formulated and reviewed for safety and efficacy for cats.
7. How much fish oil is safe for cats?
For cats weighing 15 pounds or less, it is recommended to start with 1/2 teaspoon of “ TerraMax Pro Omega 3 Fish Oil for Cats” per day. After two to three weeks of positive effects, the dose can be lowered to 1/4 teaspoon per day.
Conclusion
After conducting thorough research and product evaluations, we have determined that Zesty Paws' Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs and Cats and TerraMax's Premium Omega-3 Fish Oil for Pets are high-quality and dependable choices for cat owners.
At BestForPets, we strive to provide valuable insights and recommendations to help you make informed decisions for your beloved pet. We hope that our list of the top omega-3 fish oils for cats has been helpful in your search to promote your cat’s health and well-being.
Veterinarian (DVM)
Comment
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.