What is fish oil?
Fish oil (brand names: Eicosaderm®, Dermapet®, Welactin®, AllerG-3®) is a supplement derived from cold-water fish such as salmon. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
EPA and DHA act as anti-inflammatory agents, so they are used for inflammatory diseases, including skin allergies (atopy) and dermatitis, arthritis, kidney disease, heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, epilepsy, and some types of cancer. Fish oil is used widely in cats, dogs, and other animals.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately.
The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.
Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.
Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.
How is fish oil given?
- Fish oil comes in the form of a capsule or liquid.
- All forms are given orally (by mouth).
- Oral forms may be given with or without food.
- Measure liquid forms carefully.
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions on administering this medication carefully and give for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if your pet is feeling better.
This medication may take several weeks before full effects are seen, although gradual improvements are usually noticeable.
What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects?
Fish oil may cause the following side effects:
- Mild gastrointestinal upset
- Fishy odor
- Delayed wound healing
- Oily coat
- Itchiness or skin flaking
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving fish oil and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction, such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
- Abnormal bruising or bleeding, especially in cats
- Pancreatitis
- Appetite loss
- Incoordination, seizures
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This moderate-acting medication should stop working within a few days, although effects may last longer in pets with liver and/or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this supplement?
DO NOT USE fish oil in:
- Animals who are allergic to any component
- Cases where a reputable source of fish oil cannot be obtained (high risk of heavy metal toxicity from some sources)
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets that are taking anticoagulants
- Pets with a blood clotting disorder
- Pets that are diabetic or have a history of pancreatitis
- Pets that have diarrhea
- Pets that are pregnant or nursing
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Several medications should be used with caution when given with fish oil, including:
- Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
- Doxorubicin
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; e.g. meloxicam, robenacoxib, carprofen)
Vitamins, herbal therapies, and supplements have the potential to interact with each other, as well as with prescription and over-the-counter medications. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including all vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the supplement is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store fish oil?
- Store the medication in a cool, dry location.
- Protect from light.
- Follow manufacturer’s specific storage instructions, including refrigeration recommendations.
- Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.
