Iron - the valuable trace element
Not only for us humans does the trace element iron have a number of important tasks to perform in the body - it is also responsible for a number of essential processes in the organism of dogs. By the way, the history of this trace element goes back to antiquity - even Hippocrates already knew how significant iron must be for the body.
What functions does iron have in the body?
Primarily, iron is responsible for the formation of hemoglobin, the main component of red blood cells. These, in turn, are responsible for the transport of oxygen to the lungs. Sounds important? It is!
And it goes even further: Iron not only supplies the lungs with oxygen, but also in the muscle cells, it ensures that oxygen is transported and stored. And as if these important tasks were not enough, iron also protects against oxidation processes in the body.
But why is this so important? Iron prevents the formation of free radicals - and they can really be quite radical! From damage to genetic material to the possible development of malignant tumors and degenerative diseases, everything bad that these little atoms can cause in your four-legged friend's body is included.
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Iron deficiency in dogs: How does it occur?
Normally, your four-legged friend should not experience iron deficiency as long as you feed him a balanced and healthy diet - because healthy iron intake is generated precisely through that: a good diet. Meat - especially red meat - is a reliable source of iron for dogs.
Various fruits and vegetables are also valuable sources of iron. The content can be found in peas, beans, and lentils, but also in cherries and bananas. The herbs dandelion, nettle, and marjoram also score high in iron.
As you can see - everything your four-legged friend should normally have in his bowl supplies him with his daily iron requirement. However, there are a few aspects in the diet of dogs and cats that can promote iron deficiency. These include:
1. An exclusive feeding of light meat such as poultry, as it contains less iron than red meat varieties like beef or lamb.
2. The frequent bleeding out of the meat at the butcher, which occurs during preparation. This results in the loss of the high iron content from the blood.
3. The exclusive feeding of dry food: the artificially added iron is less usable for dogs - deficiencies are more likely here than with feeding wet food or a mixed diet.
4. Pregnancy and lactation in female dogs: due to the increased iron requirement during this time, the body relies on more iron. If the diet is not adjusted, iron deficiency can occur.
5. Major surgeries lead to blood loss, which in turn depletes the body of iron.
6. A parasite infestation or gastrointestinal diseases can also lead to iron deficiency.
Recognizing and treating iron deficiency in dogs
Without a blood test, it may not be immediately apparent to you that your four-legged friend is suffering from iron deficiency. The most common symptom is anemia with persistent fatigue.
So if you have the impression that your pet is constantly tired, less energetic, and even appears depressed, you should consider iron deficiency as a possible cause. Pale mucous membranes in the gums, brittle claws, and hair loss can also indicate a deficiency.
Which iron supplements for dogs?
If you suspect that your dog is suffering from iron deficiency, you should definitely not self-medicate and indiscriminately feed supplements. Dogs rely on different doses and preparations than humans, and supplementation may worsen the problem. Take your beloved pet to the veterinarian, as they know best whether your pet's symptoms are due to an iron deficiency. Supplementary preparations specifically for dogs can be prescribed by the veterinarian, ensuring that your beloved pet receives the right dose of iron.
What to feed when dogs have iron deficiency?
If the deficiency is confirmed, a diet change towards raw feeding forms with raw meat can help. Unprocessed red meat contains a lot of iron and can restore your four-legged friend's balance. Beetroot is also extremely high in iron and can be added to your furry friend's food.
