VET Q

Feline Felicity

Q: Why is magnesium content important in cat food?--C.B.

A: Magnesium content, carefully balanced with other minerals, is important if your cat has suffered from lower urinary tract disease (commonly called feline urethral disease, or FUS). About 1% of the total cat population is affected. The average amount of magnesium in commercial cat foods is only .16%. Feeding your cat a diet that is higher in magnesium (.8%) can alleviate the disease and prevent recurrence. About five commercial canned foods and three dry foods meet this criterion. Ask your veterinarian for help in selecting these high-magnesium foods.