Welactin Liquid

Welactin Liquid is an omega-3 dietary supplement for canines made by Nutramax. This medication comes in an 8.5 oz bottle and is available over-the-counter at pet stores and veterinary clinics. Experts tout the primary ingredient, fish oil, as a superfood due to its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA.

Some vets recommend omega-3 supplements for dogs with arthritis, high blood pressure, inflammation, and those at risk for heart disease. Research suggests that omega-3s may even suppress the spread of cancerous cells and increase cognitive function. 

Fish oil has non-medical uses too. Handlers often give fish oil to show dogs to improve coat texture and appearance. There's anecdotal evidence that fish oil can reduce shedding and pet dander in canines and felines. 

Dosage

The dosage amount depends on your dog’s weight. The recommended dosages are as follows: 

• 5 to 9 lbs: 1/2 scoop every other day

• 10 to 19 lbs: 1/2 scoop

• 20 to 44 lbs: 1 scoop

• 45 to 79 lbs: 1.5 scoops

• 80 to 114 lbs: 2 scoops

• More than 115 lbs: 2.5 scoops

Dosage instructions

Open the cap and dispense the appropriate amount for your pet's weight into the scoop. Drizzle the liquid over the top of your pet's food. Dogs over 10 lbs can take this medicine once daily. Pets between 5 and 9 lbs should take this medication every other day unless a vet advises otherwise. 

Efficacy

A clinical study of nearly 40 canines with arthritis found fish oil was associated with an improvement in symptoms and mobility. Using pressure plates, researchers measured the study group’s improvement, ultimately finding 86% of the dogs given fish oil had an increase in weight-bearing ability. 

Fish oil also minimizes the presentation of irregular heartbeats in canines, according to a double-blind study of Boxers with heart arrhythmias.

A double-blind study of canines with atopic dermatitis found dogs given DHA and EPA supplements demonstrated marked improvement after 10 weeks of treatment.  

Active ingredients in Welactin Liquid

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)

Side effects

Side effects of omega-3 supplements are uncommon and are generally mild. They may include: 

• Bad breath

• Greasy skin and fur

• Skin odor

• Dry eyes

• Watery stools

• Nausea

More serious side effects of omega-3 supplements are:

• Inflammation of the pancreas

• Improper wound healing

• Anticoagulant effects

Considerations

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to change platelet activity in felines and some canines since they elevate levels of thromboxane A3 in the blood. High quantities of thromboxane A3 can theoretically decrease the blood's ability to coagulate since it's not as powerful as the platelet activator typically made by the body. 

Since it's high in fat, pets with a high risk of pancreatitis should avoid this medication. Risk factors for pancreatitis in canines include diabetes, over-eating, pre-existing endocrine conditions, being overweight, and taking ACE inhibitors. 

Omega-3 supplements can interfere with wound healing because it inhibits the body's inflammatory response, which is a natural part of healing processes. Canine studies show that dogs given omega-3 supplements did not heal as fast as those given a placebo. 

This supplement has the potential to cause cell damage due to lipid peroxidation in some dogs. Ask your vet to access your pet's risk for this condition before giving them high-fat supplements like Welactin Liquid. 

Eating foods high in fat, like fish oil, can cause diarrhea, especially in dogs with sensitive stomachs. Contact your vet if your dog has loose stools for more than 2 days or shows signs of dehydration while on Welactin. 

Drug interactions

Consult with your vet before you give Welactin Liquid for dogs that take any of these medications: 

• Anticoagulants

• Antiplatelet drugs

• Vitamin E supplements

• Certain blood pressure meds

Allergic reactions and sensitivity

Allergies to fish products can develop spontaneously, even after repeated exposure to fish products. Signs your pet may be having an allergic reaction include swelling of the muzzle, scratching, and trouble breathing. 

While allergic reactions to fish oil are rare, gastric sensitivity is quite common. Your dog may be sensitive to fish oil if they regularly exhibit nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea after ingesting fish oil.  

Frequently asked questions

Does Welactin Liquid for dogs contain synthetic triglyceride oil or Ethyl ester oil? 

No, this brand uses 100% natural fish oil in its products.  

Welactin Liquid for dogs lists "tocopherols" as an ingredient. What is that? 

Tocopherols are natural compounds with antioxidant properties found in many plant-based foods. Drug and food manufacturers often add this compound to products to extend the shelf life. 

Will this medication make my dog stink?

Maybe. Some pet parents complain that this medication gives their dog a foul odor, whereas others don't notice a change.  

Is Welactin safe for dogs that are nursing?

Yes, fish oil is completely safe for lactating dogs. Many vets even recommend it for their postpartum patients. 

Should I give Welactin Liquid for young dogs? 

DHA, an active ingredient in Welactin Liquid, is essential for brain development in growing mammals; in fact, mother's milk is full of it. Welactin Liquid is safe for puppies and adolescent canines and is an excellent source of the micronutrients they need.