| − | The main function of chloride is in '''maintaining acid-base balance''' and '''contributing to the osmotic pressure found in extracellular fluids'''. | + | The main function of chloride is in '''maintaining [[Essential Ion and Compound Balance and Homeostasis - Anatomy & Physiology|acid base balance]]''' and '''contributing to the osmotic pressure found in extracellular fluids'''. |
| − | Signs of chloride deficiency were observed in puppies fed a milk substitute diet containing 0.021% chloride on a dry matter (DM) basis. After two weeks puppies developed low plasma chloride and potassium and a metabolic alkalosis. General weakness, ataxia and stunted growth were noted. In comparison, puppies fed a diet with a chloride content of about 0.3% DM showed normal growth and no abnormalities<ref>Felder, C, Robillard, J, Roy III, S, Jose, P (1987). “Severe chloride deficiency in the neonate: The canine puppy as an animal model”. Pediat. Res. 21:497-501.</ref>. | + | Signs of chloride deficiency were observed in puppies fed a milk substitute diet containing 0.021% chloride on a [[Nutrition Glossary#Dry Matter Basis|dry matter (DM) basis]]. After two weeks puppies developed low plasma chloride and [[Potassium - Nutrition|potassium]] and a metabolic alkalosis. General weakness, ataxia and stunted growth were noted. In comparison, puppies fed a diet with a chloride content of about 0.3% DM showed normal growth and no abnormalities<ref>Felder, C, Robillard, J, Roy III, S, Jose, P (1987). “Severe chloride deficiency in the neonate: The canine puppy as an animal model”. Pediat. Res. 21:497-501.</ref>. |
| − | The best sources of chloride for dog and cat foods are animal products, including fish meals and meat meals, also milk and milk products. Cereals contain limited amounts of chloride. In addition, the chloride salts of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium are commonly used to supplement manufactured dog and cat foods. | + | The best sources of chloride for dog and cat foods are animal products, including fish meals and meat meals, also milk and milk products. Cereals contain limited amounts of chloride. In addition, the chloride salts of sodium, potassium, calcium and [[Magnesium - Nutrition|magnesium]] are commonly used to supplement manufactured dog and cat foods. |