Strontium
What is strontium?
Strontium is a silver-white metal that belongs to the alkaline earth metals. It reacts easily with oxygen and water, forming various compounds such as strontium carbonate or strontium nitrate. In nature, strontium is mainly found in minerals such as celestine or strontianite, from which it is extracted.
Strontium has several isotopes, some of which are radioactive. The best known is strontium-90, which is produced during nuclear fission and emits high levels of radiation. Strontium-90 can accumulate in the bone marrow and lead to cancer or leukemia. However, strontium-90 is not found in natural strontium and is not used in dog food.
Strontium also has some positive properties that make it interesting for medicine and industry. For example, strontium carbonate is used as a colorant for glass or ceramics, strontium nitrate as a component of fireworks or illuminating ammunition and strontium ranelate as a drug against osteoporosis.
How is strontium used in dog food?
Strontium is mainly added to dog food as a mineral to cover the need for calcium and phosphorus. Calcium and phosphorus are important building blocks for dogs' bones and teeth and must be fed in a balanced ratio. A deficiency or excess of these minerals can lead to bone diseases such as rickets or osteomalacia.
Strontium has a similar chemical structure to calcium and can therefore partially take over its function. Strontium can be stored in the bones and strengthen them. Strontium can also promote calcium absorption in the intestine and reduce calcium excretion via the kidneys.
Strontium is also used as a homeopathic remedy for dogs suffering from hip joint pain. According to one source, strontium carbonicum can often make the dog feel better and painkillers can be reduced or even discontinued. However, such therapy should always be discussed with a vet.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of strontium in dog food?
Strontium in dog food can have some advantages for the health of dogs, but can also have some disadvantages. The following table provides an overview of the possible advantages and disadvantages of strontium in dog food:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Strengthens bones and teeth | Can lead to an overdose of calcium or phosphorus |
| Promotes calcium absorption | May interact with other minerals such as magnesium or zinc |
| Reduces calcium excretion | May trigger allergic reactions |
| May relieve hip joint pain | May contain radioactive isotopes |
As you can see, strontium in dog food is not just good or bad, but depends on many factors. The quantity, quality, origin and tolerance of strontium are decisive in determining whether it is beneficial or harmful to your dog.
Strontium is a mineral that is used in dog food to meet calcium and phosphorus requirements. Strontium has some positive properties for the bone health of dogs, but also some negative effects that should not be ignored. If you want to feed your dog strontium, you should always stick to the recommended dosage, check the quality of the food and watch out for possible side effects.
If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊