Fatty Acid Supplements for Dry Skin in Pets
Just as it is for us, skin is the single largest organ for both dogs and cats. As a result, it is subject to a whole host of problems, the most common of which is dermatitis. Although all domesticated animals with feathers or fur scratch and lick every now and then, when the itching is nearly nonstop, the problem may be a diagnosable disorder. There are many reasons why your furry friend is scratching incessantly. Fortunately, all of them are treatable.
Types of Dermatitis in Pets
Environmental, parasitic, infectious, and allergic reactions are quite common in pets, but may be difficult to diagnose, since there are many causal agents. The nutritional form of the disease, on the other hand, is typically much easier to treat. Often the result of cheap pet foods, these brands do not contain the protein, vitamins, and minerals your dog or cat needs with each meal. As a result, his coat may become dry and dull and hair loss may ensue. Dry, flaky skin is another common symptom.
Signs of Nutritional Dermatitis in Pets
As much as their owners may love them, millions of cats and dogs live their entire lives in discomfort because they consume low quality pet foods. Most of these economical brands are chock-full of unhealthy fillers and ingredients our pets literally cannot stomach. In more extreme cases, diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite inevitably ensue. But for the average cat or dog, itching and scratching are the most common symptoms of nutritional dermatitis.
Even after their pets exhibit the aforementioned symptoms, some owners are reluctant to switch their pet’s food. It isn’t because they don’t care. In most cases, they believe the labels on the cans, bags, and boxes describe nearly every food as “complete and nutritionally balanced.”
How to Fight Nutritional Dermatitis in Pets
Our cats and dogs are mainly meat eaters. So, when you feed them foods that contain corn, wheat, and soy, it’s no wonder they have trouble processing it. Proper nutrition can and often does improve minor health issues, such as dry skin. It can also make a remarkable difference in comfort and quality of life. With that said, improved eating habits alone may not be enough to restore your pet’s coat and skin. When combined with a healthy diet and prescription medications, supplements can help clear up most acute or chronic skin problems.
What are omega fatty acids for pets?
Americans have always adored panaceas. Hey, who wouldn’t A single pill or nostrum that can solve all our problems…what could be better? Omega fatty acids are the latest catholicon pet owners have embraced with open arms. A blend of acids derived from natural oils, they are said to support heart and skin health. But do they really work?
Although they may not be a cure-all, there is amble evidence to suggest fatty acid supplements are salubrious for both humans and their pets. When taken on a daily basis, they can be used to treat the itching and scratching often associated with dry and flaky skin.
Common Omega Fatty Acid Supplements for Pets
Omega 3, 6, 9 for Dogs and Cats: Sold in soft gel capsules, this daily supplement provides all the healthy benefits of fatty acids in a single dose. Although it is formulated for management, Omega supplements can also help restore normal coat and skin health in pets that suffer from pruritis and seborreheic diseases and conditions. This particular medication contains heavy doses of Vitamins A and E and other natural antioxidants, which have been proved to add moisture to dry skin.
Optima 365: A dog or cat with dry or unhealthy skin will invariably have a dull, lackluster coat. Some pets even experience increased shedding because their skin is dry and flaky. A daily supplement can help correct these problems in short order. Most contain Omega fatty acids, which can produce real results in only a few weeks.
Sold in chewable tablets and liquid form, Optima 365 is an oral supplement for dogs and cats. Numerous laboratory tests have shown that it can significantly reduce shedding, particularly in aging dogs. Skin and coat health should improve soon after the supplement is administered.
Essential Fatty Acids: A topical solution sold in spray form, this Essential Fatty Acids supplement contains omega fatty acids mixed with natural moisturizing factors. It is designed specifically to replenish the epidermal barrier in dogs and cats to restore proper moisture balance to skin immediately following medicated or routine shampooing.
Have you tried any of these products or any other omega fatty acid supplement with your pet. Let us know you experiences and suggestions in the comments section below. Thank you.