Zinc is one of the essential minerals that are supplemented in
today's commercial diets for cats and dogs. There are several
different factors that effect the absorption of zinc from the
diet. The Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets
guidelines for the minimum daily requirements of all nutrients
for cats; those for zinc are shown in the table below.
Absorption and sources of zinc Zinc is not considered to be
highly absorbable. Studies show that between 5% and 40% of
ingested zinc is actually absorbed. There are several factors
that influence the absorption of zinc. One of them is genetics.
Another is plant material. Plants contain a product called
phytate, which binds zinc and reduces its absorption. Fiber has
a similar effect. Therefore, animals that are fed a diet high in
plant material may have an increased risk of developing zinc
deficiencies. Calcium also binds zinc, and zinc deficiencies can
be produced when excess amounts of calcium are fed. Cats with
inflammatory bowel disease may develo