Will giving my dog fish-oil help with his arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a painful condition that is very common in both dogs and cats. It’s a degenerative disease – which means that despite your best efforts, it will inevitably get worse. Having a pet that suffers from arthritis is a constant battle against the enemy, for the health and comfort of your best friend.

If your pet suffers from arthritis, it’s incredibly important that you have a management plan in place, and that this is reassessed at least yearly (although twice a year is better!), remember – it’s a fight that’s not going away. 

As part of your anti-arthritis strategy, nutritional supplements can provide an amazing arsenal of support. Fish-oil has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects – reducing inflammation in joints which is the very definition of arthritis. 

But! There’s a catch! 

Fish oil contains omega oils – this is the magic against arthritis. But not all omega oils are equal, EPA and DHA are omega 3 oils which must not only be present but be present in a specific 3:2 ratio to be effective. Not to mention avoiding any additives which may be toxic to cats and dogs. Oh, and the diarrhoea, watch out for fish-oil-induced diarrhoea.

Phew, that’s a bit to get your head around. 

The best way you can administer effective amounts of fish oil to your pet is with a product that is registered for use in pets. This takes the guesswork and dangers out of the equation. Blackmores Fish Oil 500 Veterinary Strength, for instance, is a liquid fish oil supplement which can be added into your pet’s meal.

If you’re really hell-bent on giving your pet a human fish oil supplement, please make sure you clear it with your veterinarian first. It is possible to overdose your pet, and it can be dangerous. 

The options for arthritis nutritional supplements certainly don’t stop with fish oil. Speak to our veterinary team for the most current advice relating to pet joint health nutrient supplements.

Dr. Vicky Wade

Veterinarian