Dog heart disease linked to grain-free food
Dogs fed "grain free" food based on peas, lentils or potatoes are developing an unusual condition that can cause an enlarged heart, the Food and Drug Administration warned Thursday. "Diets in cases reported to the FDA frequently list potatoes or multiple legumes such as peas, lentils, other 'pulses' (seeds of legumes), and their protein, starch and fiber derivatives early in the ingredient list, indicating that they are main ingredients," the FDA said.
The condition, called canine dilated cardiomyopathy, is more common in certain breeds, but it’s turning up in breeds that are not usually susceptible, the FDA said. Dogs with the disease develop an enlarged heart, which then struggles to function properly. They can develop congestive heart failure, which can be fatal. Symptoms include lethargy, weight loss and, sometimes, a cough.
Taurine deficiency is one potential explanation. Taurine is an amino acid — a building block of protein — that is essential for carnivores. "Taurine deficiency is well-documented as potentially leading to DCM," the FDA said in a statement.
The agency is not naming brands, but said the ingredients seemed to be more important than the brands. The affected dogs appear to have been fed certain types of pet foods.
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/dog-heart-disease-linked-food-fda-says-n891011
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