More than 18 mineral elements are believed to be essential for mammals. By definition, macrominerals are required by the animal in the diet in larger amounts and microminerals or trace elements in much smaller amounts. All the macrominerals, except sulphur, are described in the text.
There are 7 macrominerals:
There are at least 11 microminerals. The major microminerals are iron, zinc, copper, and selenium.
| MINERALS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF: | |
|---|---|
| Skeletal structure | Calcium Phosphorus Magnesium |
| Acid base balance Fluid balance | Potassium Sodium Chloride |
| Cellular function | All |
| Nerve conduction | Potassium Magnesium |
| Muscle contraction | Calcium Magnesium Potassium |
Individual minerals
Tasty Tips
CALCIUM AND PHOSPHORUS
Calcium is the most common mineral in the body and phosphorus is the next most common. Calcium and phosphorus serve as structural components of the bones and the teeth.
Calcium is also important as a messenger which mediates the following:
- constriction and dilation of blood vessels
- nerve impulse transmission
- muscle contractions
- secretion of hormones
- blood coagulation
- a co-factor for enzymes
Since calcium participates in so many functions including keeping the heart beating, it is essential to keep the blood level of calcium at a steady level. This explains why, even when the food is quite deficient in calcium it is not reflected in the blood levels. Additional calcium is quickly released from the bones when the levels in the blood drop below a certain point to ensure that enough calcium is present to keep vital functions working.
SODIUM, POTASSIUM AND CHLORIDE
Sodium, potassium and chloride are the major electrolytes in the body water.
Interesting fact
Electrolytes are minerals found naturally in the body that are present as electrically charged particles, or ions. Electrolytes are needed to keep the body's balance of fluids at the proper level.
They are involved in:
- maintaining acid-base balance
- maintaining osmotic balance
- transmitting nerve impulses
- facilitating and transmitting muscle contractions
Many cat foods sold in grocery stores have a very high salt content.
MAGNESIUM
- is a component of bone, enzymes and intracellular fluids
- has influence on neuromuscular transmissions
IRON
Is an essential component of:
- haemoglobin: the oxygen carrying pigment of the blood
- myoglobin: the oxygen carrying pigment of the muscles
ZINC
Zinc is a constituent or activator of more than 200 enzymes, so it is involved in a high number of diverse physiological functions. Some of zinc's primary functions include:
- immunocompetence
- skin and wound healing
- growth
- reproduction
COPPER
Copper is needed for:
- the formation of red blood cells
- normal pigmentation of skin and hair
SELENIUM
Is an essential component of the naturally occurring antioxidant, gluthathione peroxidase, which is present in all body cells.
Related products
Perfect Digestion Adult Small & Mini Breed Dog Mousse with Turkey
Science Plan's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Adult Multipack Wet Dog Food with Chicken, Turkey & Beef
Hill's Science Plan Adult Dog Food Variety Pack is composed of 12 loaf cans: 6 with Chicken, 3 with Beef & 3 with Turkey. It is a complete pet food for adult dogs 1–6 years old.
Perfect Weight Adult Small & Mini Breed Dog Mousse with Turkey
Chicken recipe, small breed dry dog food with for the weight support and balanced nutrition for overall health. With small kibble size for tiny mouths, quality protein for lean muscle.
Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Sensitive Stomach and Skin Small & Mini Adult Dog Food with Turkey is a complete premium pet food for small breed adult dogs aged 1–6 years. This deliciously soft mousse is enriched with ingredients that support digestive health & skin care.
Related articles
The Incredible Science Behind Your Pet's Microbiome
Learn what your pet's microbiome is, how it contributes to your pet's gut and overall health, and why nutrition is important in maintaining healthy microbiomes.
Proteins
To make a protein, amino acids are linked together in a long chain. The chain is then bundled into to a three-dimensional structure, like a tangled ball of yarn.
The Right Diet For Your Pet
In people, the right diet is very important. If you are eating the wrong way for your metabolism, activity level, age and lifestyle you could end up with health issues.
What Nutrients Can Help a Pet’s Immune System?
Learn why nutrients like antioxidants & amino acids can help improve your pet's immune system, as well as top antioxidants to look for in pet food.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.