Copper storage disease csd is being diagnosed with increasing frequency.
Copper storage disease in dogs diet.
Excessive and prolonged exposure over time leads to cirrhosis and possible death.
Some dogs aren t able to properly metabolize copper in the liver usually resulting from a genetic metabolic disorder.
A new paper links copper storage disease in dogs to aafco s change in copper supplements in pet food back in 1997.
Copper is absorbed from the diet in the small intestines and transported to the liver.
A dramatic increase in liver disease in dogs has been linked to association of american feed control officials aafco dog food nutrient requirements the very same requirements that classifies dog food as complete and balanced.
In normal dogs excess copper is excreted from the liver in the bile and ultimately in the feces.
In health copper plays a role in the formation of a dog s bones connective tissue collagen and myelin the protective covering of nerves.
Dogs require copper in the diet to form strong bones nerve coverings and connective tissue.
These dogs might develop copper storage disease also known as copper.
It also aids in iron absorption.
Copper is not a nutrient that many owners contemplate until it is associated with disease.
Copper also helps the body absorb iron making it an important part of red blood cell function.
This leads to progressive damage and scarring of the liver.