Grain-Free & Boutique Diet Updates
The FDA recently posted an update on their investigation into diet-associated dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart condition. Since this report, we have received many questions and concerns from our clients about grain-free, boutique, and raw diets. We wanted to reach out and give some updated information.
In addition, we are always here to answer any questions you have. Please schedule a consultation appointment with your veterinarian if you would like to discuss diet changes or further recommendations for your pet. We strive to provide the most up-to-date information and care for your pet’s health.
July 17, 2019
“On June 27, 2019, the FDA posted an update on their investigation into diet-associated dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Since then, there have been many news reports, company responses, and internet/social media interpretations of the update. I encourage everyone to read the actual reports and am providing direct links to all parts of the report below:” . . .
June 27, 2019
“The FDA is investigating reports of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs eating certain pet foods. While it is an ongoing investigation, the Center for Veterinary Medicine recognizes that you may have questions. Below we have compiled answers to address some of the frequently asked questions raised by pet owners and veterinarians.” . . .
June 27, 2019
“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today is providing an update on its investigation into reports of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs eating certain pet foods containing a high proportion of peas, lentils, other legume seeds (pulses), and/or potatoes in various forms (whole, flour, protein, etc.) as main ingredients (listed within the first 10 ingredients in the ingredient list, before vitamins and minerals). This update covers reports of DCM received by the FDA through April 30, 2019 and, for the first time, includes pet food brands most frequently named in DCM reports to the FDA. The agency is also posting a spreadsheet of DCM reports relevant to the investigation received through April 30, 2019. All the reports included a diagnosis of DCM.” . . .
November 28, 2018
“It’s not just grain-free. This does not appear to be just an issue with grain-free diets. I am calling the suspected diets, “BEG” diets – boutique companies, exotic ingredients, or grain-free diets. The apparent link between BEG diets and DCM may be due to ingredients used to replace grains in grain-free diets, such as lentils or chickpeas, but also may be due to other common ingredients commonly found in BEG diets, such as exotic meats, vegetables, and fruits. In addition, not all pet food manufacturers have the same level of nutritional expertise and quality control, and this variability could introduce potential issues with some products.” . . .
June 4, 2018
“Heart disease is common in our companion animals, affecting 10-15% of all dogs and cats, with even higher rates in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Doberman Pinschers, and Boxer dogs. Most nutritional recommendations focus on treating dogs and cats with heart disease and there is much less information on the role of diet in causing heart disease. However, a recent increase in heart disease in dogs eating certain types of diets may shed light on the role of diet in causing heart disease. It appears that diet may be increasing dogs’ risk for heart disease because owners have fallen victim to the many myths and misconceptions about pet food.” . . .
