Benefits of zinc chelates in pet animals

While in farm animals organic zinc is used to promote growth, improve performances and reduce excretion, in pets the main objective of using of an organic source is the positive effect on reproductive performances and health of the animals, improving the appearance of skin and hair. Most frequent signs of zinc deficiency are problems with cicatrisation of small injuries, conjunctivitis and keratitis. As a result, hair loses shine and looks dry and rough (Scott 1998). Several trials indicate a better bioavailability of zinc chelates associated with a better health and growth of hair and skin. Jamikorn (2008) reports that chelates deposition in hair is higher than for the inorganic source. This author showed that organic sources of zinc significantly increase the growth rate of hair which is softer with less fragmentation. As far as growth is concerned, we must highlight that breeds with faster growth have higher zinc requirements and a lack of that mineral can lead to dermatitis

Organic minerals are mainly indicated for use in breeds of giant dogs with faster growth and high requirements of mineral, or when diets contain higher levels of substances (like phytates) that can reduce absorption. Also, organic forms will help in the case of breeds with genetic problems related to metabolism and absorption of zinc