The discovery of the roles of lipids in nutrition dates back to the 1920s. Today, we know that lipids are the most energy-dense macronutrients and that 95% of dietary lipids are triglycerides—molecules consisting of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule. It is the fatty acids that are crucial for the body’s balance, and they determine the properties of lipids. Fatty acids are classified based on the number of carbon atoms and double bonds they contain. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are fatty acids with more than one double bond in their structure.
PUFA: Classification
Lipids are divided into 3 subcategories:
- Triglycerides (Glycerol and fatty acids)
- Phospholipids (Phosphorus and fatty acids)
- Steroids (Cholesterol derivatives).
We identify 3 types of fatty acids:
- Saturated fatty acids
- Monounsaturated fatty acids
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids, which include OMEGA-3 and OMEGA-6
In the omega-3 (ω3) family, you’ll find EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Through complex mechanisms, they help modulate inflammation. DHA is also essential for proper neuron function. Fish oils are the most valuable source of omega-3s, as they contain the forms that are directly active in cats and dogs. The conversion of EPA or DHA from plant-based omega-3s is very limited in dogs and almost negligible in cats.
In the omega-6 (ω6) family, linoleic acid (LA) is an essential fatty acid and a precursor to arachidonic acid. Diets often provide more omega-6 than omega-3, with ratios that can be extremely high in certain particularly unbalanced feeding regimens (e.g., BARF). An excessive imbalance of omega-6 relative to omega-3 may promote the development of various conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and inflammatory or autoimmune disorders.
Daily Nutritional Benefits of PUFA
PUFAs integrate into cell membranes, where they modulate protein activity and fluidity. Beyond their structural role within membranes, they also serve a functional purpose as an energy source or as precursors to messengers in the body.
Supplementing with PUFAs can be beneficial at various stages of your pet's life:
- Growth: DHA supports immunity, learning, development, and vision, while omega-3s play a beneficial role in behavior.
- Adults for maintenance: omega-3s promote skin health, brain function, and help regulate blood lipid levels and inflammation. Additionally, EPA supports tear quality.
- Senior dogs: omega-3s help limit brain aging and protect kidney function. They also help modulate inflammation.
How Omega-3 Fatty Acids Work in the Body
Omega-3 fatty acids can benefit the proper functioning of many organs and may even be recommended in oncology alongside medical treatments.
For Skin and Coat
The ꙍ6 help maintain skin impermeability and improve coat quality or dry skin.
Example of Canine Atopic Dermatitis:
During atopic flare-ups, omega-3s and certain omega-6s (GLA, gamma-linolenic acid) help modulate inflammation, play an immunomodulatory role, support skin barrier restoration, and provide a genuine anti-itch effect. The effects of essential fatty acids take time to develop—at least one month, two for optimal results. Their use remains beneficial even during symptom-free periods and is recommended as a long-term complement to treatments.
For Kidney Health
ꙍ3 supplementation reduces hypercholesterolemia (high blood cholesterol levels), which could harm kidney function in dogs as it does in humans. Additionally, it decreases proteinuria (protein loss in urine) and enhances kidney filtration.
Chronic Kidney Disease Example:
For chronic kidney disease, PUFAs support kidney function and help preserve renal health. They also reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure.
For Joints
Different types of fatty acids have varying effects on joint tissue inflammation. ꙍ3s reduce the expression of inflammatory markers, decrease cartilage degradation, oxidative stress in chondrocytes, pain, and prostaglandin production.
Osteoarthritis Example:
For osteoarthritis, omega-3s protect cartilage and reduce inflammation. They improve mobility in 6 weeks. Multiple studies have shown positive results from omega-3s (EPA, DHA), particularly for canine osteoarthritis, including in the hip and elbow.
