![]() Let us avoid this type of reaction and instead look at the evidence: What do we currently know about the role of diet and taurine in the development of DCM in dogs – and how is it that “grain-free” foods have been recently targeted as a possible dietary cause? Signs of Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in DogsĭCM is a disease of the heart, which causes the heart muscles themselves to weaken, which, in turn, reduces the ability of the heart to pump blood through the dog’s body as it should. ![]() These ingredients are found commonly in foods that are formulated and promoted as “grain-free.”Īs these things go, there followed a lot of hype and a fair bit of hysteria in response. Foods containing high levels of peas, lentils, other legume seeds, and/or potatoes were identified by the FDA as potential risk factors. It is speculated that these cases are related to the consumption of foods that negatively affect taurine status, leading to taurine-deficiency DCM. The reported cases occurred in breeds that are not considered to be genetically predisposed to this disorder.įurther, a significant number of the dogs were found to have reduced levels of circulating taurine in their blood and have responded positively to taurine supplementation. This disorder is characterized by weakening of the heart muscle, which leads to a decreased ability of the heart to pump, and if untreated, to cardiac failure. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released an alert to veterinarians and pet owners regarding reports of increased incidence of a heart disease called canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Possible Risk Factors for Taurine-Deficiency DCM:įactors that increase taurine-degrading microbes in the intestine – Plant-based protein sources (peas, lentils, legumes) (speculated) – High dietary fiber (i.e., rice bran, beet pulp, cellulose) – Heat-damaged or poor-quality protein sources – Low-protein diet (limited taurine precursors) Dietary Risk Factors for Reduced Taurine Status:
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