Evaluation of phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium content in commercially available foods formulated for healthy cats.

ABSTRACT:

Background

High dietary phosphorus (P) and low calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (Ca:P) are associated with kidney damage in cats. There are no established guidelines for dietary P maximum for cats.

Objectives

To quantify crude protein, P, Ca, and magnesium (Mg) concentrations in cat foods and compare among food formats (dry, canned, raw), primary protein ingredients, protein concentrations (low, moderate, high), grain-free versus grain-containing foods, foods intended for adult maintenance versus all life stages, and cost.

Samples

Eighty-two commercial nonprescription cat foods.

Methods

Descriptive study. Mineral concentrations were measured using inductively coupled argon plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. Crude protein was measured using the Dumas nitrogen comb

SUBMITTER: Summers SC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6979088 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature