Of all the fish we can give our pets, the sardine is probably the one that offers the best ratio of simplicity to nutritional value. It is a small fish, low on the food chain, and for this very reason, it accumulates very few heavy metals — something that is far from secondary when talking about fish for pets. But its true strength lies in its nutrients: Omega-3s, vitamins, minerals, and for cats, also natural taurine.
🐟 What sardines contain
Sardines are an oily blue fish, which means they are naturally rich in Omega-3 fatty acids in their active form — EPA and DHA. This distinction is important: dogs and cats cannot convert plant-based forms of Omega-3 (such as ALA from flaxseeds) into EPA and DHA usable by the body as effectively. Oily fish like the sardine provides the most assimilable form directly.
In addition to Omega-3s, sardines contain phosphorus, selenium, iodine, iron, magnesium, and a rich profile of B vitamins — B3, B6, and B12.
🐾 Benefits for dogs
For dogs, sardines act on multiple fronts simultaneously:
Heart and circulation — Omega-3 EPA and DHA support cardiovascular health, help regulate blood pressure, and reduce systemic inflammatory processes.
Skin and coat — a regular intake of fatty acids is visible: shinier coat, less dry skin, less dandruff, and less itching. It is one of the most visible benefits most appreciated by those who use them consistently.
Digestive system — the Omega-3s and 6s present in balance with vitamins B12 and E support intestinal wellness and proper digestive function.
Bones and immune system — phosphorus and selenium contribute to bone health and the proper functioning of immune defenses. Iodine supports thyroid function.
Energy and nervous system — B vitamins are involved in energy metabolism and the proper functioning of the nervous system. Particularly valuable during pregnancy and lactation.
Skin regeneration — selenium promotes skin regeneration, useful in case of minor irritations or particularly sensitive skin.
🐱 Benefits for cats
For cats, everything said for dogs applies — but there is something more worth highlighting.
Natural taurine — sardines are a source of taurine, an essential amino acid that cats cannot synthesize on their own. A taurine deficiency in cats can have serious consequences for the heart, vision, and nervous system.
Brain and vision — DHA, in particular, supports the development and maintenance of cognitive functions and eye health. Important for both growing kittens and senior cats.
Coat and skin — even in cats, the effect on the coat is one of the most evident. A cat with an Omega-3 deficiency often has a dull coat and dry skin; regular sardines make the difference.
💡 An extra tip: don't throw away the water
Canumi fillets are preserved in natural water — and that water should not be thrown away. It is a concentrate of minerals and trace elements: magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, iodine, as well as vitamins A, D, E, and a good amount of Omega-3. Pouring it over food is an easy way to increase the nutritional intake of the meal and, above all, help with hydration — often underestimated in both dogs and cats.
How to use Canumi sardines
Canumi sardine fillets from the Atlantic Coast are natural, without added oils, preservatives, or colorings. They can be used as:
- Complement to the main diet — combined with the daily meal, a few times a week
- Topping — to make the meal more palatable, great for picky eaters or seniors with reduced appetite
- Nutritious snack — a way to supplement protein and Omega-3s between meals
Naturally, especially in the case of special needs, medical conditions, or allergies, it is always best to consult your veterinary nutritionist before adding anything not provided for in the diet.
You can find Canumi Sardine Fillets in the Nutrition section of our shop, in both the Dog and Cat versions. 🐾
— Alessandra 💜