Flaxseed often shows up in pet food ingredient lists, promoted as a rich source of essential fatty acids (EFAs). But here’s the catch: flaxseed doesn’t actually provide the essential fats your cat needs.
While flaxseed is high in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)—a type of omega-3 fatty acid—cats lack the enzymes needed to convert ALA into the long-chain EFAs they truly require: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These are the powerful omega-3s that support brain function, skin health, and inflammation control.
In other words, flaxseed might be a plant-based omega-3 superstar for humans or even dogs—but for cats, it’s a nutritional dead-end.
Cats are obligate carnivores, and their bodies are designed to get EFAs from animal sources, such as fish oil, krill oil, or raw prey. Relying on flaxseed in their diet is like giving them a locked treasure chest and expecting them to get the gold.
If you want to truly support your cat’s health—especially when it comes to their coat, joints, heart, and cognitive function—look for species-appropriate sources of EFAs. Skip the plant-based hype and go for the real thing.
Because when it comes to feline nutrition, biologically appropriate beats trendy every time.