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Therapeutic Effect of EPA and DHA Supplementation in Neoplastic and Non-Neoplastic Companion Animal Diseases

This systematic review evaluates the therapeutic effects of EPA and DHA in treating various diseases in dogs and cats. Twenty-three randomized studies were analyzed, with benefits seen in both neoplastic (cancer-related) and non-neoplastic conditions such as allergic dermatitis, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and haircoat disorders. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of EPA and DHA, through suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases, are highlighted as key mechanisms for their therapeutic effects.

Last Reviewed Date: 01/22/25

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247.216	Anchovy		Anchovies are small, nutrient-rich fish commonly found in marine environments, offering high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making them valuable in both whole food and supplemental forms.	https://www.bernies.com/?post_type=bu-food&p=247216	10	Anchovies are rich in the compound EPA. The study highlights EPA's anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in treating osteoarthritis and cardiovascular diseases by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines. This study recommends combined EPA and DHA doses per body weight for several dog conditions, including osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease.

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Ingredient sources of Therapeutic Effect of EPA and DHA Supplementation in Neoplastic and Non-Neoplastic Companion Animal Diseases

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247.569	Omega-3 Fats		Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fats that play key roles in reducing inflammation, supporting brain and heart function, and promoting overall health. They must be balanced with omega-6 fatty acids, which support immune function and cell growth but can contribute to inflammation if consumed in excess relative to omega-3s.	https://www.bernies.com/?post_type=bu-nutrient-subtype&p=247569	10	The study highlights EPA’s anti-inflammatory effects, connecting it directly to its therapeutic use in managing conditions like osteoarthritis and allergic dermatitis, which are common targets for omega-3 supplementation. By emphasizing precise dosing for EPA in metabolic body weight terms, the study reinforces the critical role of omega-3 fats, particularly EPA, in addressing both inflammatory and immune-related conditions in dogs.

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General Health Topics

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General Health Topics

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247.588	Joint & Musculoskeletal		The joint and musculoskeletal system provides the strength, stability, and mobility that dogs rely on for everything from running and jumping to maintaining posture and balance. This system includes bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, all working together to support movement. Over time, wear, injuries, or genetic conditions can lead to pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility, impacting a dog’s quality of life. Proactive care, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle strategies can help support musculoskeletal health and keep dogs moving comfortably as they age.	https://www.bernies.com/?post_type=bu-general-health-to&p=247588	1	Omega-3 supplementation, particularly with EPA, is highlighted in the study as an effective way to reduce joint inflammation and slow the progression of joint degeneration in dogs with chronic joint issues like osteoarthritis. This study emphasizes the use of EPA and DHA to treat joint conditions, recommending high doses (310 mg/kg0.75^0.750.75) for managing inflammation in osteoarthritis and improving joint mobility in dogs.
249.038	Inflammation		Inflammation is the body's biological response to harmful stimuli such as injury, infection, or toxins. It involves immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular signals working to repair tissue and defend against threats. In dogs, while acute inflammation is beneficial for healing, chronic inflammation can contribute to diseases like osteoarthritis, allergies, and cardiovascular issues, causing ongoing damage to tissues and organs.	https://www.bernies.com/?post_type=bu-general-health-to&p=249038	1	The study highlights EPA and DHA's role in managing inflammation, particularly in chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, where high doses of omega-3s reduce inflammatory markers and improve mobility in dogs. By modulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, EPA and DHA are shown to be effective in reducing systemic and localized inflammation in dogs, which helps manage conditions affecting joints, skin, and heart health.

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Health Conditions

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247.698	Osteoarthritis		Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the gradual breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It can affect dogs at any age but is more common in older dogs.	https://www.bernies.com/?post_type=bu-health-condition&p=247698	1	The study recommends high doses of EPA + DHA (310 mg/kg0.75^0.750.75) to effectively reduce joint inflammation in dogs with osteoarthritis. Omega-3 supplementation, particularly EPA, has been shown to slow disease progression and improve mobility in osteoarthritic dogs.

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INGREDIENTS:

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Nutrients

FOOD CATEGORIES:

Food Metas

Food Types

Food Component Groups

NUTRIENT CATEGORIES:

Nutrient Meta

Nutrient Classes

Nutrient Types

Nutrient Sub-Types

General Health Topics

Health Conditions

Therapeutic Interventions

Lifestyle Strategies

INGREDIENTS:

Foods

Food Components

Nutrients

FOOD CATEGORIES:

Food Metas

Food Types

Food Component Groups

NUTRIENT CATEGORIES:

Nutrient Meta

Nutrient Classes

Nutrient Types

Nutrient Sub-Types

General Health Topics

Health Conditions

Therapeutic Interventions

Lifestyle Strategies

INGREDIENTS:

Foods

Food Components

Nutrients

FOOD CATEGORIES:

Food Metas

Food Types

Food Component Groups

NUTRIENT CATEGORIES:

Nutrient Meta

Nutrient Classes

Nutrient Types

Nutrient Sub-Types

Therapeutic Effect of EPA and DHA Supplementation in Neoplastic and Non-Neoplastic Companion Animal Diseases

Contents

Overview

Food Metas

Food Types

Food Components Group

Foods

Food Components

Nutrients

Nutrient Metas

Nutrient Classes

Nutrient Types