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Are Dicalcium Phosphate, Sodium Selenite, K3 in my pet's food safe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Female | spayed | 9 years and 5 months old | 7.1 lbs

I'm concerned about Dicalcium Phosphate in my pet's food. Is this a safe ingredient? I'm also concerned about Sodium Selenite and Menadione(K3). Are these ingredients safe? Formulas for food that I have been using have recently added these ingredients. Phoebe has periodic bouts of pancreatitis. Thanks for you help! Susan

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on June 1st, 2017

Dicalcium phosphate and sodium selenite are additives to food products in order to increase the levels of both calcium and selenium. Both of these are minerals required in the diet of a dog in certain quantities in order to be healthy. I do not know enough about the Menadione to speak intelligently about it, other than it is some sort of vitamin K pre cursor. Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin that plays a large role in the clotting of blood in the body. Depending on the company of the food you use, I don't spend too much time looking at every ingredient on the label. I think it is great that you are being astute, but if you trust the company then I don't think you should be terribly worried. Additionally, if the company is reputable, you can always call up their veterinary nutrition department and ask for a detailed explanation as to the addition of the new stuff. Most of the time they are happy to talk to their clients. Hope this is helpful.

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