Can a change in food formula lead to weakening claw beds?

We've got a bit of a mystery at our house. We've got 2 (of 5) cats who have lost a claw. Ophelia hid hers very well, being a former feral, and we didn't see that she had the injury until it is already mostly healed - pink and healthy skin, no sign of infection or even soreness to the touch.

Mojo, on the other hand, we found fairly soon after the fact (we think). Very sore to the touch, but still no sign of infection. We're going to keep a VERY close eye on it and get her to the vet at the first sign of anything wrong.

The only thing that has changed is the formula by the pet food company. They completely changed the packaging, size and formula for the Hairball food, which we need because of Trent and Ginger. Could that change affect the strength of the nail bed?

We're thinking we need to switch foods (again, since we noticed that the formula had changed so we did the gradual switch with that), and would appreciate moderately priced but good quality hairball food suggestions.

Thank you!

it could but only if the mineral levels and protein levels were changed ....

what were you using so well know mid priced??

We were feeding Eukanuba. Not the best, I know, but feeding 5 cats gets pricey too.

Originally Posted by valanhb

We were feeding Eukanuba. Not the best, I know, but feeding 5 cats gets pricey too.

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How much were you paying if I may ask ... see her Eukanuba is about 40$ for a large bag...

Is anyone sensitive to any particular ingrediant???

We've been getting the mid-sized bags for about $25, probably about once a month or more often. I really don't know how often...sometimes it's easier to just go when we need it. LOL

some brands to look at

Taste of the wild
Nutro
Natural balence
Solid gold ( grain level helps with hairball issues)
California natural
Chicken soup
Diamond naturals.. the last two Usually are very reasonable at the local feed store

Thank you so much Jen! I'll definitely look into those brands and hopefully everyone does well on them.

I've never heard of claws coming out because of the type of food used. Do you think they might be fighting when you aren't around? I hope you figure it out. Let us know how it goes.

Originally Posted by GayleMG

I've never heard of claws coming out because of the type of food used. Do you think they might be fighting when you aren't around? I hope you figure it out. Let us know how it goes.

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That's quite possible, probable even, but it just seemed strange to me that both of them lost an entire claw in less than a week when we had changed food within a couple months. None of them seem too keen on the new flavor/formula anyway so we were considering a change regardless. This just pushed it over the edge. It may be complete coincidence, but I'd rather not take the chance, you know?

I agree, it doesn't sound like the diet. Improper nutrition might cause claws to be brittle or shed their ends more easily, but I don't think it would cause the claws to fall right off. It would be like humans' fingernails dropping off completely.

It might have been a fight, or perhaps a nail fungus or infection? If it seems like it might be the latter, a vet visit is in order.