Essential cofactor for >300 enzymes involved in immunity, wound healing, and cell division. At high doses, induces intestinal metallothionein which preferentially binds dietary copper, preventing copper absorption — used for copper hepatopathy maintenance therapy.
At a glance
Class
Essential Trace Mineral / Anti-Copper Agent
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from moisture
Dosing
Used for copper hepatopathy maintenance (after initial chelation with penicillam
Cats are more susceptible to zinc toxicity (Heinz body anemia)
Safety
Serum zinc levels (target 200–500 mcg/dL for copper hepatopathy)Hepatic copper levels (liver biopsy)CBC (copper deficiency causes anemia/neutropenia)Hepatic enzymes
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Zinc (Systemic)?
Zinc (Systemic) is a essential trace mineral / anti-copper agent used in pets. Essential cofactor for >300 enzymes involved in immunity, wound healing, and cell division. At high doses, induces intestinal metallothionein which preferentially binds dietary copper, preventing copper absorption — used for copper hepatopathy maintenance therapy.
›What is Zinc (Systemic) used for in pets?
Zinc (Systemic) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for copper hepatopathy maintenance (after initial chelation with penicillam; Cats are more susceptible to zinc toxicity (Heinz body anemia).
›What is the Zinc (Systemic) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Zinc (Systemic) is typically dosed as follows — Used for copper hepatopathy maintenance (after initial chelation with penicillam: 5–10 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Zinc (Systemic) dose for cats?
For cats, Zinc (Systemic) is typically dosed as follows — Cats are more susceptible to zinc toxicity (Heinz body anemia): undefined undefined PO N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Zinc (Systemic) need a prescription?
Zinc (Systemic) is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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