Omega fatty acids for your cat are the essential polyunsaturated fats that cats need for proper health and nutrition. A cat's body cannot synthesis arachidonic acid, which is important for energy production.
How Omega Fatty Acids Benefit Cats
A diet that includes Omega fatty acids helps to eliminate the need for administering certain medicines. These essential fats also help to:
- Minimize dry skin, itching and allergies
- Reduce inflammation
- Increase joint mobility
- Lessen the inflammation from bowel disease
- Slow the development of certain forms of cancer
- Prevent a weak immune system
- Increase vision and brain health
- Protect internal organs
Fatty Acids in Cat Food
Next to proteins and carbohydrates, omega fatty acids contain a high amount of food energy. A poorly formulated cat food may not have the correct amounts of fatty acids. Look for foods that have a balance of both Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids to keep your cat healthy. Below is a breakdown of terms you may see on cat food labels:
Omega-6 fatty acids:
- Arachidonic
- Dihomo-gamma linolenic
- Linoleic
Omega-3 fatty acids:
- Alpha linolenic
- Docosahexaenoic
Food Sources High in Omega Acids
You can find some foods that include both Omega-3 and Omega-6 acids, such as soy and kidney beans. Here are other food sources that contain essential fatty acids:
Omega-3 sources:
- Cold water fish and fish oils
- Pork and poultry fat
- Flaxseed
Omega-6 sources:
- Safflower oil
- Corn oil
- Pumpkin seed oil