The organisation is aware of current FDA research and investigation.
The Pet Food Manufacturers Association (PFMA), alongside the European pet food federation (FEDIAF) is monitoring investigations into canine dilated cardiomyopathy (Canine CDM).
Canine CDM is a primary disease of cardiac muscle that results in a decreased ability of the heart to generate pressure to pump blood through the vascular system.
The investigation being monitored started in 2018, and is being held by the USA-based Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is investigating causes of canine dilated myopathy, and is currently looking into specific dietary ingredients as a potential cause.
As reported by PFMA, the FDA has said that “most of the diets associated with the reports of non-hereditary DCM have legume seed ingredients, also called “pulses” (e.g., peas, lentils, etc.), high in their ingredient lists.”
Despite this, however, the FDA has stressed that there is no evidence to suggests that pulse ingredients are inherently harmful to dogs.
As there is no information suggesting a similar issue with pulses in the UK or in Europe, PFMA is advising owners to continue to feed their pets with a complete and balanced diet, with pet food made by reputable manufacturers.
PFMA and FEDIAF will continue to monitor the investigation.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
