July 2, 2019
Dear Pet Parent,
In the June 27th, 2019 update to the FDA Investigation into Potential Link between Certain Diets and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy, the FDA summarized their investigation into the possible connection between certain diets and cases of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Fromm and 15 other pet food brands were listed in the FDA Summary Report as brands included in complaints filed by pet owners with dogs or cats diagnosed with DCM. The Complete FDA Document lists all 524 consumer complaints and all 70 pet food brands recorded in the complaints submitted to the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine from January 1, 2014 through April 30, 2019.
You can read the FDA Summary Report at:
https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/news-events/fda-investigation-potential-link-between-certain-diets-and-canine-dilated-cardiomyopathy
You can read the Complete FDA Document at:
https://www.fda.gov/media/128303/download
You can read the FDA Questions & Answers at:
https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/questions-answers-fda-center-veterinary-medicines-investigation-possible-connection-between-diet-and
The FDA Summary Report notes that the possible association between diet and DCM is complex and may involve more than just the diet—such as the specific breed and the individual animal’s metabolism. The FDA noted that many of the dogs affected by DCM were being fed grain-free diets, particularly those with peas and lentils. Yet, the FDA and others working on DCM have not been able to determine that a grain-free diet causes DCM. In fact, many dogs consume grain-free diets including peas and lentils and never develop DCM.
We take this matter seriously. If you are concerned about feeding your pet a grain-free diet, then you may wish to switch to one of our many grain-inclusive diets. We will continue to monitor all information as the FDA investigation progresses. Feel free to contact us for updates at any time.
Fromm’s dedication to the health and nutrition of animals has been the bedrock of our company since 1904. Since 1949, we have been producing complete and balanced foods for dogs. Our formulations include appropriate levels of vitamins and minerals and supplementation of essential amino acids. Specifically, we supplement taurine in all Fromm dry recipes, including grain-free and grain-inclusive diets. Additionally, all of our diets contain ample amounts of cysteine and methionine, amino acids that dogs use to produce their own taurine.
We empathize with any pet parent and their beloved pet who may have experienced the hardship of coping with DCM health related issues. As always, we will remain vigilant in monitoring FDA communication and new research findings related to DCM and other possible health issues.
As a fifth-generation family-owned-and-operated company, we are committed to providing the safest, highest quality pet products for your family.
Sincerely,
Tom Nieman
President and Fourth-Generation Owner
Fromm Family Foods