Herring

Herring is a small oily fish used as a source of protein and fat in some foods, valued mainly for its content of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, which support skin and coat health and contribute to cognitive and joint function according to veterinary literature. It also supplies good-quality protein, vitamin D and vitamin B12 (USDA FoodData Central). A reassuring detail: as a small fish low in the food chain, herring tends to accumulate fewer contaminants such as mercury than large marine predators like [tuna](/glossary/tuna), which makes it an appealing everyday marine omega-3 source. Its quality depends on freshness and protection against [oxidation](/glossary/rancidity-oxidation), since fish fats turn rancid quickly and a poorly stored raw material loses its nutritional value (WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines). Marine omega-3 is more directly usable by dogs and cats than plant omega-3 from sources such as [flaxseed oil](/glossary/flaxseed-oil), which they convert poorly into EPA and DHA. On a label, the word herring does not guarantee a meaningful amount of useful omega-3, which should be checked where the level is stated. The marker: herring is a useful marine source for skin and coat, provided the food is well preserved. Compare it with [salmon and salmon oil](/glossary/salmon-salmon-oil) and [krill oil](/glossary/krill-oil) among marine omega-3 options.

Petipedia · Editorial team

General documentary information. For an individual animal, a veterinarian's advice takes precedence over any online content.