Do Omega's Help With Joint Health

As winter settles in and our pets grow their fluffiest coats, many pet owners start looking for supplements to support their dog or cat’s skin, coat, and joint health. One of the most common ingredients you’ll see on labels is plant-based omega-3s—often from flax, chia, or hemp.

But are these the right omegas for supporting joint health? 
Let’s break it down.

🌱 What Are Plant-Based Omegas?

Plant sources such as flaxseed, chia, and hemp contain an omega-3 fatty acid called ALA (alpha-linolenic acid).
ALA is fantastic for supporting:

* A soft, shiny coat

* Skin hydration

* Reduced flakiness

* A stronger skin barrier

For pets who get dry or itchy during the winter months, ALA can be a great addition to their diet.

🦴 Why Plant Omegas Don’t Support Joint Health

While plant omegas are wonderful for skin and coat, they don’t do much for joint inflammation or arthritis.

Here’s why:

Dogs and cats must convert ALA into the two omega-3s that actually help joints — EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).
Unfortunately, pets convert ALA very poorly:

* Dogs convert less than 10%

* Cats convert almost zero

This means plant-based omegas don’t provide enough EPA & DHA to reduce inflammation in arthritic joints or improve mobility.

🐟 The Omegas That Do Support Joints

For joint health, the body needs EPA and DHA — found in marine-based omega-3s:

* Salmon oil

* Sardine/anchovy oil

* Pollock oil

* Krill oil

* Green-lipped mussel

* Algae oil (a vegan source of EPA/DHA)

These omegas help:

* Reduce inflammation

* Improve mobility

* Support cartilage health

* Increase comfort in pets with arthritis or chronic pain

At Bridge City Veterinary Rehabilitation, we use these types of omegas frequently as part of our arthritis and mobility treatment plans.

The Takeaway

Plant-based omegas = great for skin and coat.
Marine-based omegas = essential for joint health.

If your pet is itchy, flaky, or losing their winter shine, plant omegas can help.
 If your pet is stiff, slowing down, or dealing with arthritis, marine-based EPA and DHA are most beneficial.

We’re Here to Help Your Pets Feel Their Best

If your pet is struggling with mobility, stiffness, or discomfort this winter, our team at Bridge City Veterinary Rehabilitation can help.
We offer personalized mobility plans, underwater treadmill therapy, laser therapy, PEMF, acupuncture, and more to keep your pets moving comfortably.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment or mobility assessment.

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