By: Christian Yost
March 28, 2009
Proteins are found in both animal-based and plant-based ingredients. Animal-based proteins contain all the essential amino acids dogs and cats need, whereas plant-based proteins may contain only some essential amino acids. Dogs and cats need animal-based proteins to achieve optimal health.
Fats can also be found in both animal-based and plant-based ingredients. They are incorporated into skin cells as fatty acids. There are two essential fatty acids for skin and coat health. Linoleic acid maintains skin and coat condition in dogs and cats. Without enough linoleic acid dogs and cats may experience dull, dry coat, hair loss, greasy skin and increased susceptibility to skin inflammation. Cats also require arachidonic acid for normal skin and coat health.
Both of these are omega-6 fatty acids and are found in animal tissues like chicken fat and in vegetable oils (corn and soybean).
However, most commercial dog and cat diets contain more than adequate amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. Because these fatty acids can be converted to compounds that promote skin inflammation, it is important to balance the amount of omega-6 fatty acids in the diet with omega-3 fatty acids, which do not promote inflammation.
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in oils from fish and some plants (canola and flax).
Research has found that through natural pet nutrition, combining fat sources in the diet to a ratio of 5-10 omega-6 fatty acids to 1 omega-3 fatty acid results in excellent skin and coat health.
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