It participates in the formation of bones and joint cartilage [1]. It is a component of antioxidant enzymes and is responsible for the proper functioning of the reproductive system. Manganese is also an activator of enzymes necessary for the proper digestion and metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. [1] [2].
What it contains: Mussels (edible mussel), blackberries, raspberries, beetroot, sweet potato, liver, brewer’s yeast. Cartilage, tendons, bones, kidneys and eggs are usually low in manganese. [1] [3].
Deficiency: Clinically, it is poorly documented in dogs and cats (NRC assesses its practical significance as low), so it is worth keeping an eye on the balance, but there is no reason to fear a specific disease. Symptoms such as growth retardation, skeletal deformations in young animals, reproductive disorders or dulling/rusting of dark fur have been described mainly with extreme experimental limitation of manganese [1] [3].
Excess: Due to the very low degree of absorption, excess from a natural diet is not harmful and is excreted [1] [2].
Sources
- National Research Council (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, Chapter 7 - Minerals. National Academies Press. https://nap.nationalacademies.org/catalog/10668/nutrient-requirements-of-dogs-and-cats
- Hand MS, Thatcher CD, Remillard RL, Roudebush P, Novotny BJ (2010). Small Animal Clinical Nutrition, 5th Edition. https://www.markmorrisinstitute.org/sacn5.html
- Assessment of mineral adequacy in prepared raw dog foods labeled as complete (2025). Scientific Reports. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12690097/