The importance of the right omega-3s in a pet’s diet

To ensure that pets can regularly benefit from this important nutrient, it is crucial to choose a pet food that contains the right source of omega-3.

Not all omega-3s are the same

Omega-3s have many proven health benefits for dogs, cats and humans alike, but they are not all utilised in the same way. The most important types of omega-3s are ALA, EPA and DHA. ALA is mostly found in plants, and EPA and DHA are mostly found in marine sources such as krill, algae or fish.

To have a positive health effect on a pet, ALA from plants must be converted into EPA and DHA inside the animal’s body. Since this conversion rate is less than 10% in dogs and cats, plant-based omega-3 is not very efficient. However, marine-based omega-3s are already in the correct form as EPA and DHA. Therefore, they can be used directly without conversion, thus providing a much more efficient health benefit.

The role of phospholipids

One such marine-based source is krill: tiny crustaceans present in all oceans. In fact, krill represents a superior source of omega-3s because – unlike the omega-3s found in fish, which are carried by triglycerides – EPA and DHA from krill are carried by phospholipids. Phospholipids are structural components of cell membranes in pets such as dogs and cats. Therefore, omega-3s from krill are incorporated into the pet’s body cells more effectively than omega-3s carried by triglycerides in fish. Recent studies have also shown that phospholipid-bound omega-3s from krill are more effective in raising the omega-3 index (EPA and DHA in red blood cell membranes) in a dog’s body when compared to triglyceride-bound omega-3s, such as those found in fish oil.

Once in place in the cell membrane, the omega-3 phospholipids EPA and DHA support the health of several vital organs, including the heart, kidney, liver, joints, brain, eyes, skin and coat.

grill

Krill – one ingredient, many benefits

Krill is a premium omega-3 source that naturally contains astaxanthin and choline, supporting cell integrity, immune function, cognitive function and muscle function in an active and vital dog. This makes it a unique marine ingredient with several key nutrients beneficial for pets at every life stage. Moreover, krill is sustainable, traceable and sourced from some of the cleanest waters on Earth.

Tonje Dominguez