Iron & Manganese

Micro-minerals called Trace minerals

Iron (FE)

• Iron is found in red blood cells, muscle tissue and other body cells.

• Sources of iron in food are liver, lean meats, fish, whole grains, and legums. Most commercial pet foods contain a form of Supplemental iron.

• Functions: To bind and transport oxygen and it plays a role in enzymatic reactions.

Iron Deficiency and Excess

• Deficiencies: Anemia, Weakness and poor growth and may also develop constipation.

• Types of Anemia: Microcytic- red blood cells are smaller than normal, Hypochromic- red blood cells are paler than normal

• Excess: Can cause Toxicity and gastrointestinal signs and death

Manganese (Mn)

• Found in Animal and plant foods like whole grains, seeds nuts, eggs, and green vegetables. It is supplemented in the diet.

• Function: component of enzymes, lipid and carb metabolism. It is necessary for bone development and neurologic function and cell membrane integrity.

Manganese Deficiency and Excess

• Deficiencies: Decreased growth and Impaired reproduction. It is rare in cats and dogs but can be found in newborn and young animals.

• Excess: Relatively non- toxic