Fats and oils play a vital role in animal health, supporting skin, joints, hormones, immunity and nervous system function. But not all oils are equal and not all pets are getting the essential fats they need, even when their diet appears “complete”.
Understanding where oils come from, how they’re processed and how they’re used in the body can make a meaningful difference to your pet’s long-term wellbeing.
The issue with Processed Pet Foods
Many commercial pet foods are exposed to high heat during processing, particularly extrusion and rendering.
Heat can –
- Damage delicate omega-3 fatty acids
- Reduce their biological activity
- Shift the balance toward omega-6 fats
While fats may still be present on the label, their functional value can be significantly reduced by the time the food reaches the bowl.
This is one reason pets on processed diets may still show signs of –
- Dry or itchy skin
- Dull coats
- Stiff joints
- Ongoing inflammation
Why Omega-3s Matter
Omega-3 fatty acids (particularly EPA and DHA) are involved in –
- Supporting a normal inflammatory response
- Joint mobility and comfort
- Skin and coat integrity
- Brain, nerve and immune function
When omega-3 intake is low or when omega-6 intake outweighs omega-3s, the body may struggle to regulate inflammation effectively.
Adding fresh, unheated oils can help rebalance this.
Fresh, cold-processed oils are not exposed to damaging heat, helping preserve their natural fatty acid structure and functional value.
They can be especially helpful for pets on processed diets, those with skin, coat or joint concerns and during periods of growth, ageing or recovery.
Understanding Different Oils
Not all oils provide the same fatty acids or benefits.
Suitable for dogs, cats and horses, providing a natural source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support skin and coat health, joint comfort and overall wellbeing. It may also help maintain a normal inflammatory response and support healthy skin barrier function.
Flaxseed (Linseed) Oil is suitable for dogs, cats and horses, providing a rich source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids to support skin and coat health, digestive comfort and overall wellbeing. It may also assist in maintaining a normal inflammatory response and healthy skin hydration.
Suitable for dogs and cats, supplying marine-based omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, plus naturally occurring vitamins A and D. It may support joint mobility, skin and coat condition, immune function and overall vitality, particularly where additional vitamin D support is beneficial.
Suitable for dogs, cats and horses of all life stages, including growing animals, this oil supplies marine-based omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA along with naturally occurring vitamins A and D. These nutrients may support healthy growth and development, skin and coat condition, joint mobility, immune function and overall vitality.
Need help choosing the right Oil?
Oils aren’t about trends, they’re about balance.
Choosing the right oil depends on the individual pet, including species, life stage, diet and specific needs. Sometimes it’s not about adding more, but adding the right type.
If you’re unsure which oil best suits your pet’s needs, our team is always happy to help.
