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Overnutrition: an epidemic problem in pet animal practice?
1Department of Clinical Sciences, New York State College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca 14853.
Summary
Supplementing normal dogs and cats with nutrients is unnecessary and potentially dangerous. Pet foods provide adequate nutrition, so avoid supplements unless a specific health condition requires them.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Nutrition
- Animal Health
- Pet Food Science
Background:
- Manufactured pet foods are formulated to meet essential nutrient requirements for dogs and cats.
- Concerns exist regarding the necessity and safety of supplementing commercially prepared pet diets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence on the necessity and safety of nutritional supplementation for healthy dogs and cats.
- To evaluate claims made for pet nutritional supplements.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on pet nutrition and supplementation.
- Analysis of nutrient content in commercial pet foods.
- Evaluation of clinical data regarding adverse effects of supplementation.
Main Results:
- Commercial pet foods provide adequate levels of essential nutrients for normal dogs and cats.
- Supplementation in healthy animals is unnecessary and can lead to dangerous clinical consequences.
- Even supplements for nutrients like taurine and potassium are unnecessary without specific clinical indications.
Conclusions:
- Nutritional supplementation for healthy pets is not recommended and carries risks.
- Veterinarians should critically evaluate claims for supplements, demanding objective data.
- Supplement use should be limited to cases with diagnosed clinical deficiencies or needs.