OK, so I’ve been getting a lot of questions regarding a very popular graphic that keeps circulating on social media. I’m here to address any concerns you all may have because our pet’s are our family members and we only want what is best for them!
In 2018 the FDA announced that it was looking into a claim that grain free food was contributing to non-hereditary DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy). This investigation was launched based on a blog written by a vet on Purina’s payroll (Lisa Freeman). This was not a scientific study, but a blog post!
The FDA went so far as to actually list brands that should be avoided which sent pet parents running to purchase grain inclusive foods. Conveniently the recommended foods are brands manufactured by your BIG brands, Nestle (Purina), Mars (Royal Canin) and Colgate Palmolive (Hill’s Science Diet).
The FDA has officially recanted their original statement after research was conducted, stating: “Legumes, including pulse ingredients, have been used in pet foods for many years, with no evidence to indicate they are inherently dangerous. FDA has received reports of non-hereditary DCM associated with both grain-free and grain-containing diets.”
While no one is completely sure what is the cause of non-hereditary DCM, one main theory is taurine. Taurine is an amino acid only found in meat. Although there could be many factors, including pet food processing.
Mars recently acquired Champion, one of the largest manufacturers of grain free pet food. Conveniently they have now released a study to prove that lentils, beans and field peas are not linked to cardiac issues. You can access the findings here!
Whether you have chosen a grain free or grain inclusive food for your pets, here are some ways to support heart health (and adding grains didn’t make the list)
- Taurine – Found in high levels in shellfish, scallops, clams, turkey, chicken, eggs, organ meats, and raw goat milk
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids – decrease cardiac inflammation, decrease triglycerides, and decrease muscle wasting. You can give a fish oil supplement or feed whole oily fish like sardines.
- Selenium – Trace mineral that supports cardiac function- Found in chicken, beef, pork and fish
- CBD oil – Anti- inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects
The truth is, we have to feed the pet in front of us. When feeding a kibble diet, there has to be a starch to bind the kibble together. In this case, some pets do better with grains while some do better without. At the end of the day, the answer isn’t adding grains into the diet. Instead add any of the above biologically appropriate fresh food sources!
Claims like this one only make being a pet parent even more confusing. Because trying to navigate a world of deceptive marketing and pet food packaging claims isn’t confusing enough.
As always, I am here to help! And I am always happy to answer your questions and address any concerns.