Zinc for cats

It comes up constantly in skin and coat problems, but raising it alone puts it in conflict with copper and iron.

Also called · Zn

What it is

Zinc acts as an enzyme cofactor and is involved in skin, mucous membranes and immunity.

Some breeds, notably the Siberian Husky, are known to have a genetic problem absorbing zinc.

What it does

Skin and coat

Deficiency shows up as dermatitis and hair loss. It is why zinc in Huskies appears on lists of breed-specific genetic nutritional defects.

How to feed it

🐈 Feeding cats

The same.

When · how long

With meals.

What to watch for

Caution · This is where "one more supplement" gets dangerous

Zinc, copper and iron compete on the same absorption pathways. Raising zinc sharply on its own can induce copper deficiency. Minerals are the nutrient group where increasing one in isolation carries the most risk.

Concerns this ingredient relates to

General nutrition information. It does not replace a diagnosis or a prescription. If your animal has a medical condition or is on medication, talk to your veterinarian first.

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