In the U.S.A., the number one nutrition problem in pets and in people is obesity. Next may be thyroid problems in older cats. Fat pets are at risk for health troubles. Chunky animals stress their ligaments, heart and metabolism. Most of the grocery store pet foods contain higher levels of salt, water, calories, protein and nutrients than the recommended levels. The purpose of high salt in food is to make it taste good to the pet so it sells. A recent study at the Univ. of Missouri conducted by Dr. C.B. Chastain, shows that excess amounts of iodine in cat food significantly alter the function of a cat's thyroid gland, which may lead to the formation of thyroid tumors or the activation of existing tumors. Some cat foods have 10 to 60 times the recommended levels of iodine. High doses of iodine were commonly taught to be harmless, because it is a necessary nutrient which did not need to be listed on food labels. The disease was first noted in 1975. A New York survey estimated that one in 300 cats or 200,000 cats per year suffer from hyperthyroid problems and small lumps in the neck. It is wise to seek a balanced prescription diet recommended by your vet if your pet is chubby or older. The new Health Blend prescription diet offers the finest balanced nutrition at a cost less than you think! Ask your vet!
