Iron Sulfate
Our ingredient score: 3 / 5 · Mineral · How We Score
Iron is the core of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells. Ferrous sulfate (iron sulfate) is a common iron source in pet food. It is absorbed less easily than chelated iron.
Common Questions
Is iron sulfate safe for cats?
Iron sulfate is an iron salt that FDA lists in 21 CFR 582.80, its GRAS list of trace minerals added to animal feeds. Cats need iron for red blood cells, and the Merck Veterinary Manual notes that iron deficiency shows up as a microcytic, hypochromic anemia. If your cat has anemia or another medical condition, ask your veterinarian about its diet.
Source: ecfr.gov
Why is iron sulfate in cat food?
Iron sulfate is added to supply iron. The amount is set so the finished food meets the iron target for cats, since natural iron levels in meat and other ingredients vary from batch to batch. It is listed by name in FDA's 21 CFR 582.80 among iron sources for animal feeds.
What is the difference between iron sulfate and ferrous sulfate?
There is no practical difference. Iron sulfate is the name FDA uses in 21 CFR 582.80, while ferrous sulfate names the specific iron(II) form usually sold for feed. A label may print either name. Pettings has a page for each, and both describe the same added iron source.
Source: ecfr.gov
What are signs of iron deficiency anemia in cats?
The Merck Veterinary Manual says iron or copper deficiency causes a microcytic, hypochromic anemia, meaning small, pale red blood cells. A cat with anemia may have pale gums or seem weak. Only a veterinarian can confirm the cause with blood tests.
Source: merckvetmanual.com
How does Pettings score iron sulfate?
Pettings gives iron sulfate 3 out of 5 and lists it as a mineral. It appears on 4 of the 149 dry cat foods we list. Our How We Score page explains how ingredient scores are set. Each food's page shows how it scores overall.
How Foods With Iron Sulfate Compare
Iron Sulfate is on the label of 4 of the 149 dry cat foods we list.