Is Flax Oil Good for Cats?

Flax oil is derived from the flax plant, an annual flowering plant originating in the Mediterranean and India. The oil's essential fatty acids, or EFAs, are thought to lower cholesterol, fight inflammation, reduce heart disease risk, combat hypertension, treat skin disorders and irritations, promote healthy hair and nails -- or fur and claws -- and reduce some cancer risks. With such seemingly endless benefits, flax oil is ostensibly a wise addition to anyone's diet, feline or non-feline.

As an obligate carnivore, a cat should have a diet of mostly animal protein -- specifically, about 80 percent animal protein and 20 percent fat. Cats can metabolize small amounts of carbohydrates, but carbs are unnecessary for good cat nutrition. This means most of his diet will consist of meats: poultry, fish and more. Of course, cat owner's know a cat's can feast on something one day and refuse it the next, so you'll likely want mix up the offerings.

Your cat's calorie needs depends on weight, age and more, so first determine his daily caloric requirement. An eight-pound cat needs around 250 calories per day, with 80 percent -- or 200 calories -- from meat. The remaining 20 percent leaves 50 calories. With oils, that's almost a half-tablespoon. Like all oils, flax oil is all fat. Therefore, it should count against the 20-percent-fat requirement. Other fats may include those found within all the delicious meats you serve him.

Cats are finicky, so introducing flax oil may offer a challenge. Start by letting him lick some off your finger, or offer a couple drops on an empty plate. This will help you determine if he likes the flavor by itself. If that doesn't do the trick, put a drop on a piece of favorite food. You can also add a drop or two to his regular food or treats. In time, hopefully he will get accustomed to the flavor and you may gradually increase the amount. Watch for signs he's not adapting. These may include diarrhea -- a common side effect from too much flax -- vomiting, gas, bloating and decreased appetite. Over time, you'll get a sense of whether your kitty and flax are friends or foes.