The Science Behind Omega-3 for Dogs & Cats: Why Betty’s Anchovy Oil Makes a Real Difference

As pet parents become more aware of how nutrition impacts long-term health, omega-3 fatty acids have become one of the most researched and recommended supplements for both dogs and cats. From skin health to inflammation control to heart support, omega-3s—especially EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)—play critical roles in keeping pets healthy at every life stage.

Betty’s Omega-3 Anchovy Oil delivers 1000 mg of premium anchovy oil per capsule, including 180 mg EPA, 120 mg DHA, and 5 mg Vitamin E. Here’s why this matters—according to science.

What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Why Pets Need Them

EPA and DHA are long-chain omega-3 fatty acids that come primarily from marine sources. Dogs and cats cannot produce enough on their own, meaning they must obtain them from their diet.

These fatty acids are essential components of cell membranes and play crucial roles in:

• Regulating inflammation

• Supporting cardiovascular health

• Maintaining brain and eye function

• Improving coat and skin health

• Promoting joint comfort and mobility

Cats, as obligate carnivores, have an even more limited ability to convert plant-based omega-3s (such as flax) into EPA/DHA, making marine omega-3s even more important.

1. Skin & Coat Health: Reducing Itchiness and Inflammation

Chronic skin issues, allergies, and inflammation are some of the most common reasons pets are taken to the vet. Research consistently shows that EPA and DHA help reduce inflammatory skin responses.

Scientific EvidenceA study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) found that dogs supplemented with omega-3s showed significant reductions in itching, redness, and skin irritation compared to controls (Logas & Kunkle, 1994).

Another study demonstrated improved coat shine and reduced dandruff in both dogs and cats supplemented with fish oil (Bauer, 2011).

What this means for your pet:EPA helps calm inflamed skin, while DHA strengthens the skin barrier—leading to a softer, glossier coat.

2. Joint Mobility & Inflammation Control

Inflammation is at the heart of joint stiffness and arthritis in older dogs and cats. EPA, in particular, is known for its anti-inflammatory effects.

Scientific Evidence

• A study in Veterinary Therapeutics demonstrated improved weight-bearing and mobility in arthritic dogs after 90 days of fish oil supplementation.

• Dogs receiving EPA had a measurable reduction in lameness scores and joint discomfort (Roush et al., 2010).

How omega-3s help:EPA competes with arachidonic acid, reducing production of inflammatory compounds. Pets become more comfortable and mobile—especially seniors.

3. Cardiovascular Health: Supporting the Heart and Circulation

Heart health is another area where omega-3s shine.

Scientific Evidence

• A study in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that omega-3 supplementation improved survival time in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy (Smith et al., 2007).

• EPA and DHA help maintain normal heart rhythm, support circulation, and reduce inflammatory markers associated with heart disease.

Why this is important:Pets with heart conditions often benefit from omega-3 supplementation as part of a comprehensive veterinary plan.

4. Brain & Cognitive Function

DHA is particularly important for brain development and aging.

Scientific Evidence

• DHA plays a crucial role in neurological health, memory, and cognitive processing (Lands et al., 2012).

• Puppies supplemented with DHA perform better in learning and memory tasks (Journal of Nutrition, 2004).

• Senior pets receiving DHA show improvements in age-related cognitive decline.

This makes omega-3s beneficial for both growing puppies/kittens and aging pets.

5. Why Anchovy Oil Is Superior to Other Fish Oils

Not all omega-3 sources are created equal.

Anchovy oil offers several advantages:

✔ Low in heavy metals & toxins (anchovies are small, fast-growing fish)✔ Naturally high EPA & DHA content✔ Better absorption and bioavailability than plant oils✔ Sustainable and ethically sourced

Scientific analyses show small pelagic fish like anchovies have some of the highest omega-3 concentrations with the lowest contaminant levels.

6. The Role of Vitamin E

Because omega-3s are delicate and prone to oxidation, Vitamin E is added as a natural antioxidant.

It helps:

• Preserve the quality of the oil

• Support immune function

• Protect cell membranes from oxidative stress

This ensures every capsule remains pure, potent, and effective.

Feeding Betty’s Omega-3 Anchovy Oil

Simply puncture the capsule and squeeze over food, or give whole if preferred.

Daily dosing depends on your pet’s weight, with most medium dogs requiring 1 capsule daily.

Is Omega-3 Safe for All Pets?

Omega-3s are very safe when used properly, but always consult a veterinarian if:

• Your pet is on blood thinners

• Your pet is pregnant/lactating

• Your pet has a fish allergy

• Your pet has a bleeding disorder

For all other pets, omega-3s are one of the most impactful, research-supported supplements available.

Conclusion: The Science Is Clear — Omega-3s Are Essential for Pet Wellness

From shiny coats to healthier hearts and joints, omega-3 fatty acids provide whole-body benefits backed by decades of veterinary research. Betty’s Omega-3 Anchovy Oil offers a pure, high-potency formula designed to deliver measurable improvements in your pet’s wellbeing.

A healthier, happier, more vibrant pet starts with proper nutrition—and omega-3s are a natural powerhouse.

References (Peer-Reviewed & Veterinary Sources)

1. Logas, D., & Kunkle, G. (1994). "Double-blinded crossover study with marine oil supplementation containing high-dose EPA/DHA in canine atopy." JAVMA.

2. Bauer, J.E. (2011). “Therapeutic use of fish oils in companion animals.” Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

3. Roush, J.K. et al. (2010). “Multicenter veterinary practice assessment of the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on arthritic dogs.” Veterinary Therapeutics.

4. Smith, C.E., Freeman, L.M., et al. (2007). “Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on survival time in dogs with heart disease.” Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

5. Lands, B. (2012). “DHA and the brain: mechanisms and neuroprotection.” Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes & Essential Fatty Acids.

6. Heinemann et al. (2005). “Effects of dietary DHA on cognitive function in puppies.” Journal of Nutrition.

7. Lenox & Bauer. (2013). “Dietary supplementation of dogs and cats with fish oil.” Vet Clin Small Anim.

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