Is Processed Kibble Linked to Cancer in Pets?

11/4/24

Reviewed By: Dr. Tori

Unfortunately, rates of cancer in humans and our furry companions seem to be skyrocketing. Could the food that we eat have anything to do with this? New research is emerging supporting the link between ultra-processed food and increased risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, dementia and cancer.

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” – Hippocrates

Prevalence of Cancer in Dogs

Approximately 1[VG1] in 4 dogs will develop cancer in their lives. Dogs over the age of 10 years old have a 50% risk of developing cancer. These statistics are alarming and should make pet parents think twice about prevention and early detection of cancer. A recent study found that purebred dogs are at an increased risk of developing cancer. The top three breeds [VG2] diagnosed with cancer were Boxers, Beagles and Golden Retrievers. The three breeds with the least amount of cancer claims were Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and French Bulldogs.

What Causes Cancer in Pets?

Cancer is defined as a group of diseases that occur when cells in the body divide uncontrollably. Cancer is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. We have little to no control over these genetic factors. There are many environmental factors and known carcinogens for example: environmental chemicals, ultraviolet rays, smoke, pesticides, advanced glycation end products, processed meats – the list goes on and on. Fortunately, you have control over your pet’s exposure to many of these carcinogens, some of which can be found in pet food.

Warning Signs of Cancer in Pets

As a pet owner the best way to help your veterinarian detect cancer in your pet is to watch closely for changes in your pet. Many times, these changes are subtle and take some careful investigation to be able to detect cancer early. Early detection of cancer is the best way to treat cancer and prolong your pet’s life.

Here are a few common warning signs[VG3] :

· Lumps and bumps: The great news is that up to 80% of skin lumps are non-cancerous. There is cause for concern if the lump is growing rapidly, very firm or tightly adhered to the bone or muscle.

· Weight loss: Sudden or gradual weight loss without changing the pet’s diet is a key warning sign of trouble. Cancer is like a parasite stealing energy from the body to grow, which can cause weight loss.

· Appetite changes: Decrease in appetite or stopping eating all together can be a sign of many different diseases. It is important to seek veterinary care to investigate appetite changes for your pet.

· Lethargy: If your pet has cancer, they may be more tired than normal and less willing to go for walks.

· Difficulty breathing or coughing: This can occur when cancer has travelled to your pet’s lungs in later stages of disease. Pets can also have trouble breathing when lymph nodes around their throat are enlarged.

Possible Carcinogens in Dry Dog Food

As the old proverb goes – we are what we eat. Many pet owners are instructed that kibble is what your dog should eat by the media and large pet food companies. But if you read the long list of ingredients on the back of the bag of the average kibble you may be surprised. Kibble is highly processed so that it can be shelf stable and sold in mass quantities which leads to ingredient additives and advanced glycation end products. Humans are advised to avoid processed food in our own diets – the same applies to your furry family members.

What are Advanced Glycation End Products?

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are formed during high-temperature food processing, common in the kibble manufacturing process. AGEs are not added into food but are produced naturally when foods with high starch levels are heated and undergo a chemical reaction called the Maillard reaction. This reaction makes food very tasty – for example the rich browned caramelized flavor you get on a seared steak or a toasted bread crust – yum! In small quantities this reaction does not pose a risk to health; however, pets eating dry kibble encounter these AGE products daily.

AGEs are harmful oxidative [VG4] compounds that accumulate in tissues causing oxidative stress and inflammation. This chronic inflammation in turn increases the risk of developing diseases like heart disease, diabetes and most importantly cancer. It is estimated that dry dog food has about 100 times higher the amount of AGEs than human foods. Human studies directly show the impact of AGEs, yet we continue to feed our pets 100 times more.

Not only do these AGEs lead to cancer formation but they also promote cancer to grow quicker. They contribute to the growth of cancer by causing inflammation around the tumor. We also know that cancer loves carbohydrates which dry kibble is full of.

What is Acrylamide [VG5] ?

Acrylamide is an example of an advanced glycation end product (AGEs) produced during high temperature food processing. A 2021 study found that the daily intake of acrylamide by dogs on a dry food was calculated to be roughly four times higher than humans. When consumed in high enough quantities over time acrylamide exposure is linked to the development of cancer.

How to Reduce my Pet’s Cancer Risk

Cancer prevention and early detection is multi-factorial. Not much research exists to support one solution to the ever-growing problem of pet cancer. But here are some general recommendations:

· Limiting exposure to carcinogens: Choose a minimally processed food that is not exposed to high levels of heat. Raw or cooked whole food diets will inherently have significantly lower levels of AGEs due to minimal processing.

· Weight management[VG6] : A 2022 survey showed that 59% of dogs and 61% of cats were classified as overweight or obese. Obesity is associated with an increased risk in many types of cancer and decreased survivorship.

· Spaying or neutering your pet: There is a direct statistical link between increase in mammary cancer and the amount of heat cycles your female pet goes through. Neutering your dog will essentially eliminate the risk of testicular cancer.

· Regular veterinary checkups: Yearly or bi-yearly veterinary exams are important ways to screen for cancer in your pet. Samples of tumors, bloodwork or imaging can be performed at those important visits.

· Exercise: Increased steps for your pet can reduce their risk of developing cancer by helping with weight control, strengthening the immune system and building muscle which will help balance blood sugar.

What is the best diet for my dog just diagnosed with cancer?

Choosing the best diet for a dog with cancer can be dependent on the type of cancer your pet has been diagnosed with. It is best to seek individual veterinary nutritional counseling for your pet’s specific needs. But there are certainly some recommendations to provide your pet with the highest quality nutrients to support them through this journey.

A high-quality protein source that is easily digestible is paramount for supporting muscle mass and healing. As discussed previously, cancer feeds off the body’s inflammation. It can be helpful to feed anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3s like whole fish and fish oil. Antioxidant rich foods like blueberries, spinach, kale, strawberries and beats help prevent cell damage and free radicals which can lead to diseases like cancer.

A diagnosis of cancer is devastating for pets and their caretakers. At Darwin’s we believe in the power of food and are dedicated to supporting your pet during this challenging time.

Resources

"Cancer in Pets." American Veterinary Medical Association, www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/cancer-pets. Accessed [9.30.2024].

“Nationwide releases findings on cancer in dogs.” American Veterinary Medical Association, https://www.avma.org/news/nationwide-releases-findings-cancer-dogs. Published April 4, 2022.

“What are Common Warning Signs of Cancer in Pets?” NC State Veterinary Hospital, https://hospital.cvm.ncsu.edu/resources/animal-care/what-are-common-warning-signs-of-cancer-in-pets/.

“Hollings researchers studying whether popular dog foods are causing cancer.” Josh Birch. MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. https://hollingscancercenter.musc.edu/news/archive/2021/10/08/hollings-researchers-studying-whether-popular-dog-foods-are-causing-cancer. Published October 8, 2021.

“Acrylamide in Dog Food.” Scott Nichols, MS, DVM. https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/causes-and-prevention/acrylamide-in-dog-food/. Updated May 24, 2023.

“2022 Pet Obesity US Prevalence Survey.” https://www.petobesityprevention.org/2022.

[VG1]https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/cancer-pets#:~:text=Approximately%201%20in%204%20dogs,of%2010%20will%20develop%20cancer.