Diet and large intestinal disease in dogs and cats

Butyric acid and prospects for creation of new medicines based on its derivatives: a literature review

The widespread use of antimicrobials causes antibiotic resistance in bacteria. The use of butyric acid and its derivatives is an alternative tactic. This review summarizes the literature on the role of butyric acid in the body and provides further prospects for the clinical use of its derivatives and delivery methods to the animal body. Thus far, there is evidence confirming the vital role of butyric acid in the body and the effectiveness of its derivatives when used as animal medicines and growth stimulants. Butyric acid salts stimulate immunomodulatory activity by reducing microbial colonization of the intestine and suppressing inflammation. Extraintestinal effects occur against the background of hemoglobinopathy, hypercholesterolemia, insulin resistance, and cerebral ischemia. Butyric acid derivatives inhibit histone deacetylase. Aberrant histone deacetylase activity is associated with the development of certain types of cancer in humans. Feed additives containing butyric acid salts or tributyrin are used widely in animal husbandry. They improve the functional status of the intestine and accelerate animal growth and development. On the other hand, high concentrations of butyric acid stimulate the apoptosis of epithelial cells and disrupt the intestinal barrier function. This review highlights the biological activity and the mechanism of action of butyric acid, its salts, and esters, revealing their role in the treatment of various animal and human diseases. This paper also discussed the possibility of using butyric acid and its derivatives as surface modifiers of enterosorbents to obtain new drugs with bifunctional action.

Faecal microbiome transplantation improves clinical signs of chronic idiopathic large bowel diarrhoea in working dogs

BACKGROUND

Chronic diarrhoea is a common clinical sign in dogs with chronic enteropathy, and psyllium husk has been shown to improve clinical signs in affected dogs. The aim of this study was to investigate whether faecal microbiome transplant has a similar effect in alleviating clinical signs in dogs with chronic large bowel diarrhoea.

METHOD

Thirty large-breed working dogs with chronic large bowel diarrhoea were divided into a psyllium group (PG) and a faecal microbiome transplant group (FMTG). To the PG, 16 g/day of psyllium husk was administered for 30 days. The FMTG received faecal microbiome transplantation (FMT) once via enema. A daily log of faecal characteristics was kept, and the dogs' canine inflammatory bowel disease index (CIBDAI) and body condition scores (BCS) were determined. A Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test was used to compare group results. In addition, the Kaplan-Meier test was used to evaluate the occurrence rate of 1 day or more of diarrhoea and 2 days or more of diarrhoea by day 30.

RESULTS

The sample had a mean age of 3.9 ± 2.1 years and a bodyweight of 25.3 ± 6.8 kg. The FMTG showed a more rapid onset of CIBDAI improvement but no difference in other measures. At 30 days, the FMTG showed a greater improvement in bodyweight and BCS, but no differences were observed in faecal scores, defaecation frequency and time of appearance of episodes of diarrhoea. Time played a significant positive role in the results observed across both groups (p < 0.05).

LIMITATIONS

This study did not compare the microbiomes of the dogs before and after treatment, so the role of specific types of bacteria cannot be determined.

CONCLUSION

Psyllium husk and FMT had similar effects in improving clinical signs of chronic large bowel diarrhoea.

The Effect of Lactobacillus sakei on Growth Performance and Intestinal Health in Dogs: Gut Microbiota and Metabolism Study

The gut microbiota is the largest and most complex ecosystem consisting of trillions of microorganisms, which influenced by various external factors. As an important probiotic species, Lactobacillus helps to improve gut microbial diversity and composition, underlying potential efficacy in growth performance and disease prevention. However, limited studies have been investigated the relationship between Lactobacillus sakei and intestinal health in dogs. In this study, dogs in the two groups were fed a standard diet (group C, n = 8) and Lactobacillus sakei diet (group P, n = 8), respectively. The growth performance, serum biochemical indices, antioxidant capacity, gut microbiota, and metabolism of dogs in both groups were studied. Results from growth trials showed that L. sakei can significantly improve the growth performance of dogs, including increased weight gain (p < 0.05), serum biochemical indices, i.e., ALP, TP, and ALB (p < 0.05), and better antioxidant capacity, i.e., SOD and GSH-Px (p < 0.05). Significant changes in the gut microbial composition were detected in dogs fed Lactobacillus sakei, as evidenced by an increase in the level of Firmicutes, Spirochaetota, and Patescibacteria, all of them play an important role in maintaining intestinal health. Moreover, a decrease in the level of microorganisms that threaten health, such as Mucispirillum and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_13. The metabolic analysis showed that the Lactobacillus sakei enhanced metabolic pathways such as vitamin B6 metabolism, glutathione metabolism, retinol metabolism, and fatty acid degradation. Our findings suggested that Lactobacillus sakei supplementation had beneficial effects on the growth performance and health status of dogs by improving gut microbiota balance and promoting metabolism. There are an estimated 200 million dogs in China, and the population is continuing to grow at a rapid pace. It is essential to explore an effective way to promote health in dogs. Intestinal diseases, particularly colitis and diarrhea, are common clinical conditions in dogs and are associated with gut microbiota. Lactobacillus sakei, as an important species of probiotics, the relationship between L. sakei and intestinal health in dogs remains unclear. Our study suggests that L. sakei significantly promotes growth performance and health states involving weight gain, regulation of gut microbiota, and metabolism. Overall, our findings shed light on the potential role of L. sakei as an alternative in promoting health in dogs.

Local, systemic and immunologic safety comparison between xenogeneic equine umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells, allogeneic canine adipose mesenchymal stem cells and placebo: a randomized controlled trial

Mesenchymal stem cells are multipotent cells with a wide range of therapeutic applications, including, among others, tissue regeneration. This work aims to test the safety (EUC-MSC) of intra-articular administration of equine umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in young healthy dogs under field conditions following single and repeated administration. This was compared with the safety profile of allogenic canine adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (CAD-MSC) and placebo in order to define the safety of xenogeneic use of mesenchymal stem cells when administered intra-articular. Twenty-four police working dogs were randomized in three groups in a proportion 1:1:1. EUC-MSCs and CAD-MSCs were obtained from healthy donors and were manufactured following company SOPs and under GMP and GMP-like conditions, respectively, and compliant all necessary controls to ensure the quality of the treatment. The safety of the treatment was evaluated locally, systemically and immunologically. For this purpose, an orthopedic examination and Glasgow test for the assessment of pain in the infiltrated joint, blood tests, clinical examination and analysis of the humoral and cellular response to treatment were performed. No adverse events were detected following single and repeated MSC administration despite both equine and canine MSC generate antibody titres in the dogs. The intra-articular administration of equine umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in dogs has demonstrated to be safe.

Application of endoscopic ultrasound to the descending colon and rectum in normal dogs

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a medical procedure in which endoscopy is combined with ultrasonography (US) to compensate for problems associated with the transabdominal US such as large penetration depths, presence of intestinal gas, and acoustic shadowing. This prospective, method comparison, pilot study was performed to assess the feasibility of applying EUS in the colorectal region and to describe the typical EUS features of the descending colon and rectum in healthy dogs. Transabdominal US and EUS with or without the hydrosonography were applied to the descending colon and rectum in 10 clinically healthy Beagle dogs and wall thickness, visibility of the wall layers, and conspicuity of the mucosal and serosal surfaces of the intestinal wall were assessed. Endoscopic ultrasound enabled circumferential evaluation of the colorectal wall and provided better visibility of the wall layers and conspicuity of the mucosal and serosal surfaces without degradation of the image, even in the far-field portion of the colorectal wall, compared to US. Moreover, EUS provided the adequate image quality of the rectum, which was difficult to evaluate with US due to deep scan depth and acoustic shadowing by the pelvis. Meanwhile, the application of hydrosonography to EUS deteriorated the visibility of the wall layers and conspicuity of the intestinal wall. The results of this study demonstrate the feasibility of EUS to assess the colorectal region and its potential application for the evaluation of rectal masses or intrapelvic lesions that are inaccessible by the transabdominal US in dogs.

Management and behavioral factors associated with rehoming outcomes of dogs retired from commercial breeding kennels

Rehoming is a potentially stressful process for dogs retired from commercial breeding (CB) kennels, as they may struggle to cope with the myriad novel factors associated with transitioning to a home environment. Failure to adapt may increase the risk of an unsuccessful adoption, jeopardizing dog welfare and the benefits of rehoming programs. Little is known about relationships between welfare in the kennel of origin and a dog's ability to transition to a family home. This study aimed at investigating the welfare states of dogs retiring from CB kennels in relation to varying management practices across kennels, and understanding how behavioral and management factors might be associated with rehoming outcomes. A total of 590 adult dogs from 30 US CB kennels were included in the study. Dog behavioral and physical health metrics were collected through direct observation, while management information was obtained through a questionnaire. One month after adoption, 32 dog owners completed a follow-up questionnaire (CBARQ). A principal component analysis extracted four behavioral components (PCs) which included food interest, sociability, boldness, and responsiveness. Factors such as sex, housing, breed, and the number of dogs per caretaker were reported as significant sources of variation for some of those PC scores (p<0.05). For instance, lower dog to caretaker ratio was linked to better health, sociability, and food interest scores. Significant relationships were also found between in-kennel PC scores and CBARQ scores (p<0.05). Most interestingly, higher levels of sociability in the kennel were associated with lower levels of social and non-social fear, and higher trainability after rehoming. Overall, dogs were found to be physically healthy, and a moderate proportion showed fearful responses toward either social or non-social stimuli. Results suggest that a comprehensive behavioral assessment of rehoming candidates while in the kennel may help identify dogs that may have more difficulty coping during rehoming. The implications for developing management strategies and necessary interventions that support positive dog welfare outcomes within the kennel and when rehomed are discussed.

Hydrolyzed chicken liver used as single source of animal protein in diet and its effect on cytokines, immunoglobulins, and fecal microbiota profile of adult dogs

Dogs with food allergies and enteropathies may require hydrolyzed diets to prevent or reduce clinical signs, therefore the protein sources used in these diets must be previously characterized and evaluated in healthy dogs. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a hydrolyzed chicken liver powder-based diet (HCLP) versus a poultry by-product meal and bovine meat and bone meal-based diet (Control), on complete blood count (CBC), cytokine, immunoglobulins responses (assessed on days 0, 15, 30 and 45), and fecal microbiota (assessed on day 45) in healthy adult dogs. The CBC did not differ between diets (P>0.05), remaining within reference range. Total plasma IL-4 concentrations were decreased over time independent of the dietary treatment (P<0.001). Total plasma IgA decreased on day 30 compared to days 0 and 45 in dogs fed the control diet (P<0.001). Total plasma IgE concentrations were reduced on days 30 and 45 in dogs fed the control diet, and on days 15 vs 30 and 15 vs 45 in dogs fed HCLP diet (P = 0.001). The 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed similar species richness and abundances of phyla and genera between diets (P>0.05). β-diversity principal coordinate analysis plots demonstrated that HCLP group had a higher similarity than control. Based on our results, healthy adult dogs fed a HCLP based diet maintained normal values for hematological and immunological characteristics, and fecal microbiota after 45 days of feeding.

Efficacy of feeding a diet containing a high concentration of mixed fiber sources for management of acute large bowel diarrhea in dogs in shelters

Background

Use of diets with increased concentrations of dietary fiber is thought to be beneficial in the management of dogs with large bowel diarrhea.

Objective

To determine whether feeding a diet with high concentrations of soluble and insoluble fiber to dogs with acute colitis would be superior to feeding a diet with typical fiber levels.

Animals

A total of 52 dogs with acute signs of large bowel diarrhea housed in an animal shelter were entered into the study; 11 dogs per diet completed the protocol.

Methods

In this randomized, prospective study, dogs with a fecal score of 4, 5, 6, or 7 and signs of acute colitis were fed a high fiber diet (4.54% soluble; 15.16% insoluble fiber) or a standard diet (0.6% soluble; 5.33% insoluble fiber) and fecal scores compared over the course of the study with significance defined as P < .05.

Results

All dogs fed the high fiber diet (11/11; 100%) had a fecal score <5 on the day of adoption or day 9, which was statistically different (P < .04) than dogs fed the standard diet (6/11 dogs; 55%; 95% CI: 23‐83). The proportions of stools with a fecal score >4 were greater (P = .0001) in the dogs fed the standard diet (29/48 samples; 60%; 95% CI: 45‐74) compared to the high fiber diet (8/50 samples; 16%; 95% CI: 7‐29).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The results support feeding the high fiber diet described herein to dogs with acute large bowel diarrhea.

The effect of photobiomodulation therapy on the management of chronic idiopathic large-bowel diarrhea in dogs

To evaluate photobiomodulation therapy's effectiveness (PBMT) in managing chronic idiopathic large-bowel diarrhea. Thirty dogs were selected and divided into a control (CG) and treatment group (TG). CG received psyllium husk at the dose of 4 tablespoons/day for 30 days. TG received PBMT with a Class IV therapeutic laser, divided into three sessions on week 1, two sessions on week 2, and one session on week 3. A daily log of fecal characteristics was maintained, and on days 0, 8, 15, and 30, a canine inflammatory bowel disease index (CIBDAI) and body condition scores (BCS) were obtained. Results were compared using a Mann-Whitney test. Multiple regression was run to predict CIBDAI, Bristol stool scores, and diarrhea from different parameters. The Kaplan-Meier test was used to compare the occurrence rate of ≥ 1 day of diarrhea and ≥ 2 days of diarrhea by 30 days. Cox regression analysis to investigate interest covariates influences the same outcome. A p < 0.05 was set. The sample included 15 Belgian Malinois Shepherd Dogs, 10 German Shepherd Dogs, and 5 Dutch Shepherd Dog, with a mean age of 3.6 ± 2.3 years and a bodyweight of 24.6 ± 8.0 kg. TG showed an improvement in all scores and clinical signs, increased body weight, and BCS. An increased time of appearance of a second episode of diarrhea was observed in both groups. Activity level contributed to the prediction of defecation frequency and CIBDAI. PBMT significantly improved clinical signs and frequency of diarrhea episodes compared to psyllium husk.

Effect of sequentially fed high protein, hydrolyzed protein, and high fiber diets on the fecal microbiota of healthy dogs: a cross-over study

Background

Dietary content and environmental factors can shape the gut microbiota, and consequently, the way the gut microbiota metabolizes fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, affecting overall health of the host. We evaluated the impact of 3 diets (all meat [raw], high-insoluble fiber dry extruded diet and hydrolyzed protein dry extruded diet) on the gut microbiota of healthy dogs in a cross-over sequential study.

Results

We showed that diet can have an effect on the gut microbiome in dogs, which was influenced by the order of feeding. High-protein (all meat) diets were characterized by an increase in bacteria belonging to the Fusobacteria and Bacteroidetes phyla, whereas a high-insoluble fiber commercial diet correlated with increases in Firmicutes and Actinobacteria phyla. However, the individual dog’s baseline microbiota had the most impact on the magnitude and nature of the changes in response to dietary intervention.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the dog fecal microbiota is driven by protein and fiber composition to different degrees in individual animals, and targeted modification of these patterns could be useful in the modulation of the gut microbiota in different diseases.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42523-021-00101-8.

A survey on the prevalence of diarrhea in a Portuguese population of police working dogs

Background

Diarrhea is considered the most common clinical sign of chronic gastrointestinal disease in dogs and affects a considerable portion of working and sporting dogs. We aimed to determine the prevalence of diarrhea in police working dogs and evaluate the relationship between feeding, activity level, and animal characteristics with clinical signs. In an observational, prospective study, information on 188 dogs was collected. For each patient, age, sex, breed, specific mission, number of animals at the same housing location, and activity level was recorded. A body condition (BCS) and canine inflammatory bowel disease activity index (CIBDAI) scores were determined, and feces classified according to the Bristol Stool Form Scale. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare recorded data between breeds, mission, age, and sex. Multiple regression was run to predict BCS score, increased defecation frequency, diarrhea, CIBDAI scores, Bristol stool scores, diarrhea from activity level, number of animals at the same housing location, breed, and mission. A p < 0.05 was set.

Results

Animals in the sample (male n = 96, female n = 92) had a mean age of 5.2 ± 3.2 years and a bodyweight of 24.1 ± 7.2 kg. Four main dog breeds were represented, 80 Belgian Malinois Shepherd Dogs, 52 German Shepherd Dogs, 25 Labrador Retrievers, and 19 Dutch Shepherd Dog. A prevalence of diarrhea of 10.6% was determined, with 4% of dogs having liquid diarrhea. Dogs classified as “extremely active” were more likely to have a low BCS, and the level of activity contributed to diarrhea and BCS prediction.

Conclusion

Police working dogs frequently experience diarrhea episodes, which lead to clinical disease and performance loss. Investigation of aetiologies is required.

The use of soluble fibre for the management of chronic idiopathic large-bowel diarrhoea in police working dogs

Background

Chronic intermittent or persistent diarrhoea is a common condition in dogs and may be a reflex of gastrointestinal or non-gastrointestinal disorders. Besides diarrhoea, many athletes experience other gastrointestinal symptoms. Dietary fiber can help normalize colonic motility and transit time, support normal gastrointestinal microflora growth and provide fuel for colonocytes. This study aimed to evaluate dietary supplementation effectiveness with psyllium husk in police working dogs with chronic large-bowel diarrhoea. Twenty-two animals were selected. Concurrent conditions were ruled out through complete blood count and serum biochemistry. Fecal Clostridium and Salmonella were also screened. A soluble fiber, psyllium husk, was added to the diet at the dose of 4 tablespoons/day for 1 month. A daily log of fecal characteristics (type, frequency, and color) was maintained during the supplementation month and for an additional month, without supplementation.

Results

Response to treatment was classified as “very good” in 50% of animals, “good” in 40% of animals, and “poor” in 10% of cases. During the month of psyllium husk supplementation, defecation frequency decreased from 3.5 to 2.9 times a day, with 90% of animals showing consistent stools regularly and registering a mean increase of 2 kg in body weight. Beneficial effects were still observed during the second month, without psyllium husk supplementation.

Conclusion

Psyllium husk can be useful in the management of chronic large-bowel diarrhoea in working dogs, which exhibited lower defecation frequency, improved stool consistency, and gained weight. Effects were felt beyond the supplementation period. Alternative approaches for non-responsive cases need to be evaluated.

Effect of different starch sources in a raw meat-based diet on fecal microbiome in dogs housed in a shelter

A dietary intervention study was assessed to determine if different sources of starch in homemade diets could significantly modify fecal microbiome of dogs. Twenty-seven adult dogs were enrolled and fed a diet based on a mixture of rice and pasta with fresh raw meat (CD). After 90 d, 8 dogs continued to receive CD diet, 10 dogs received a diet made of a raw meat and a complementary food with rice as the main source of starch (B1), and 9 dogs were fed a diet with the same raw meat and a complementary food with potato as the main source of starch (B2). Samples of feces were collected from each dog in the mornings at the beginning of the study and after 15 d and analyzed for pH, ammonia N (N–NH₃) and total N, short chain fatty acids (SCFA) and lactic acid. Relative abundance of fecal microbiota was assessed by sequencing and annotating the V3–V4 regions of the 16S rRNA. Total starch intake was similar between diets but differed in the in vitro rate digestion and in the resistant starch, which was higher in B2 than in B1 and CD diets. Dogs fed B2 diet showed lower (P < 0.05) N–NH₃ and pH but higher (P < 0.05) molar proportion of lactic acid. Linear discriminant analysis of the genera relative abundances indicated a significant (P < 0.01) increase of SMB53 genus at the end of the study in B1 diet and of Megamonas genus in B1 and B2 diets in comparison to CD diet. These results suggest that changes of starch source in a raw meat-based diet have limited effects on fecal microbiome in healthy dogs, but underline a high variability of microbiota among dogs.

Epidemiological Evaluation of Dogs Rescued in the Fukushima Prefecture Following the Great East Japan Earthquakes of 2011

IntroductionDogs left behind in the restricted area by the Great East Japan Earthquakes of 2011 (Fukushima Prefecture, Japan) were initially rescued at a temporary first response shelter under chaotic conditions: poor housing and husbandry was maintained by unfamiliar/untrained staff, and lack of exercise was associated with deterioration of the mental and physical health of the impounded dogs. The objectives of this study were to report characteristics, disposition, and health status of dogs rescued in the Fukushima Prefecture, and to perform a retrospective epidemiological evaluation of factors associated with disposition and disease incidence at shelters.ProblemsThe problems addressed in this study were shelter-related health issues at the first response shelter and reasons for retained adoption at the secondary shelter that caused delayed closure of the shelter.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed with all dogs that were rescued from the restricted area in the Fukushima Prefecture. Kaplan-Meier time-to-event analysis was performed to estimate the median days to outcomes. A chi-square test of homogeneity was used to determine whether ownership status was associated with breed. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess the association between time-to-adoption with ownership status, age, sex, and breed, the association between time to onset of diarrhea with age and breed, and between duration of diarrheic symptoms with the number of antibiotics and the number of medications.

RESULTS

Five-hundred and twenty-nine dogs were admitted to the Ihno and Miharu shelters (Fukushima Prefecture), including 179 that had detailed medical records. Seventy-six percent of dogs were mixed breed. Twenty-six percent of dogs had verified ownership, and almost 16% of dogs were reclaimed by their owners. Sixty-six percent of dogs developed diarrhea, and 17 different antibiotics were used to treat it. Using three or more different antibiotics was associated with prolonged signs of diarrhea. Dogs with verified ownership took longer for adoption than those without verified ownership. Breed and sex were not significantly associated with time to adoption. Age was associated with prolonged time to adoption.

CONCLUSION

To improve the welfare of dogs in disasters, responsible owner education, a well-organized registered volunteer training program for care of animals at shelters, proper disease management protocols, and enrichment strategies to prevent stress and disease in shelter setting are essential. TanakaA, Martinez-LopezB, KassP. Epidemiological evaluation of dogs rescued in the Fukushima Prefecture following the Great East Japan Earthquakes of 2011. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2018;33(5):478-583.

Effect of resistant starch on the intestinal health of old dogs: fermentation products and histological features of the intestinal mucosa

The effects of resistant starch (RS) intake on nutrient digestibility, microbial fermentation products, faecal IgA, faecal pH, and histological features of the intestinal mucosa of old dogs were evaluated. The same formulation was extruded in two different conditions: one to obtain elevated starch cooking degree with low RS content (0.21%) and the other lower starch cooking with high RS content (1.46%). Eight geriatric Beagles (11.5 ± 0.38 years old) were fed each diet for 61 days in a crossover design. Food intake, nutrient digestibility, fermentation products, faecal pH, and faecal IgA were examined via variance analysis. Histological results of intestinal biopsies were assessed via Wilcoxon test for paired data. The morphometric characteristics of large intestine crypts were evaluated via paired t tests (p < .05). Protein, fat, and energy digestibilities were higher for the low-RS diet (p < .05). Dogs receiving the high-RS diet had lower faecal pH and higher values for propionate, butyrate, total volatile fatty acids, and lactate (p < .05). No differences between diets were found in the histological parameters of the gut mucosa, and only a tendency for deeper crypts in the descending colon was observed for dogs fed the high-RS diet (p = .083). The intake of a corn-based kibble diet manufactured with coarse ground raw material and low starch gelatinization to obtain 1.4% of RS affected microbial fermentation products and faecal pH and tended to increase crypt depth in the descending colon of old dogs.

Influence of pork and pork by-products on macronutrient and energy digestibility and palatability in large exotic felids

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate digestibility and palatability of a new commercial pork-based raw diet for zoo-managed felids. Currently 2 protein sources (beef or horse) comprise the majority of commercial raw meat diet formulations for exotic carnivores in zoological institutions. Pork-based diets have traditionally not been widely utilized and thus nutrient digestibility of pork has not been adequately evaluated in exotic carnivores. The objectives of this study were 1) to determine if a pork-based diet had similar apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility and fecal scores as standard zoo carnivore diets formulated with either horse or beef, in large exotic felids and 2) evaluate palatability of pork for use in zoos. Ten exotic felids were used including cheetahs (; 3), jaguars (; = 3), leopards (; 2), puma (; 1), and Bengal tiger (; 1). Dietary treatments consisted of 4 raw meat diets: 1 horse-based (Horse), 2 beef-based (B1, B2), and 1 pork-based diet (Pork). Fecal scores also were evaluated (1 = hard to 5 = watery/liquid). This randomized crossover design study consisted of 4 periods, each 10 d for treatment adaptation followed by 4 d of sample collection. Dry matter and crude protein apparent digestibility values were greater ( < 0.05) in felids fed Pork (88.0 and 95.7%) compared with felids fed Horse (83.6 and 92.7%) and B2 (85.6 and 93.1%). Apparent organic matter digestibility was greater ( < 0.05) in felids fed Pork (90.8%) than felids fed Horse (88.5%). Apparent fat digestibility values were high across all treatments but were greater ( < 0.05) in felids fed Pork (98.5%) compared with felids fed B1 (95.5%) or B2 (96.5%). Gross energy digestibility values were greater in felids fed Pork (92.4%) compared with B1 (90.2%). Average fecal scores were 2.30, 2.94, 3.42, and 3.54 for Horse, Pork, B1 and B2, respectively; and were different ( < 0.05) between treatments with exception of B1 and B2 that did not differ. Felids approached the pork diet first in 65.6% of observations and tasted the pork diet first in 71.9% of observations, compared with a beef-based raw diet. Based on results, the evaluated pork-based diet had similar apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility and palatability compared with standard zoo carnivore formulations. In conclusion, pork-based diets could be included among dietary options for large zoo felids.

Comparison of contrast media for visualization of the colon of healthy dogs during computed tomography and ultrasonography

OBJECTIVE To evaluate contrast agents for their ability to improve visualization of the colon wall and lumen during CT and ultrasonography. ANIMALS 10 healthy adult Beagles. PROCEDURES Food was withheld from dogs for 36 hours, after which dogs consumed 250 mL of polyethylene glycol solution. Dogs were then anesthetized, a contrast agent (tap water, diluted barium, or air; order randomly assigned) was administered rectally, iodine contrast medium (880 mg of I/kg) was administered IV, and CT and ultrasonography of the colon were performed. After a 1-week washout period, this process was repeated with a different contrast agent until all agents had been evaluated. Two investigators reviewed the CT and ultrasonographic images for colon wall thickness, conspicuity, artifacts, wall layering, and degree of lumen dilation at 4 sites. RESULTS Thickness of the colon wall was greatest in CT and ultrasonographic images with water used as contrast agent, followed by barium and then air. The CT images obtained after water administration had a smooth appearance that outlined the colonic mucosa and had the highest score of the 3 contrast agents for wall conspicuity. Although no substantial artifacts related to any of the contrast agents were identified on CT images, barium- and gas-induced shadowing and reverberation artifacts hindered wall evaluation during ultrasonography. For ultrasonography, the degree of conspicuity was highest with barium in the near-field wall and with water in the far-field wall. In contrast to CT, ultrasonography could be used to distinguish wall layering, and the mucosal and muscular layers were distinct with all contrast agents. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Use of water as a contrast agent for both CT and ultrasonography of the colon in dogs compensated for each imaging modality's disadvantages and could be beneficial in the diagnosis of colon disease.

Evaluation of canned therapeutic diets for the management of cats with naturally occurring chronic diarrhea

Dietary therapy plays an important role in the management of most gastrointestinal disorders. This study was designed to test the efficacy of a new therapeutic diet for cats with diarrhea, compared to the top selling brand. Sixteen adult cats with chronic diarrhea were grouped and assigned to diet X (Hill's Prescription Diet i/d Feline) or diet Y (Purina Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Feline Formula). Following baseline evaluations, cats were fed their assigned test diet for 4 weeks. Fecal scores (FS; 7=very watery; 1=extremely dry and firm) were recorded daily during the last week on each diet. Each cat was then switched to the alternate test diet and the procedure was repeated. Fifteen cats completed the study. Both therapeutic diets resulted in a significant improvement in average FS and diet Y also resulted in significantly better results compared with diet X. Average FS improved at least one unit in 40% of the cats while fed diet X and in 67% of the cats while fed diet Y, resulting in normal stools (average FS≤3) in 13.3% of cats fed diet X and 46.7% of cats fed diet Y. This study confirms the value of dietary change in the management of chronic diarrhea in cats.

Gene-centric metagenomics analysis of feline intestinal microbiome using 454 junior pyrosequencing

The feline gastrointestinal microbiota have direct influence on feline health and also human health as a reservoir for potential zoonotic pathogens and antibiotic resistant bacterial strains. In order to describe the feline gastrointestinal microbial diversity, fecal samples from cats have been characterized using both culture-dependent and culture-independent methods. However, data correlating total microbial composition and their functions are lacking. Present descriptive study evaluated both phylogenetic and metabolic diversity of the feline intestinal microbiota using GS Junior titanium shotgun pyrosequencing. A total of 152,494 pyrosequencing reads (5405 assembled contigs) were generated and classified into both phylogenetic and metabolic profiles of the feline intestinal microbiota. The Bacteroides/Chlorobi group was the most predominant bacterial phylum comprising ~ 68% of total classified diversity, followed by Firmicutes (~ 13%) and Proteobacteria (~ 6%) respectively. Archaea, fungi and viruses made up the minor communities in the overall microbial diversity. Interestingly, this study also identified a range of potential enteric zoonotic pathogens (0.02–1.25%) and genes involved in antimicrobial resistance (0.02–0.7%) in feline fecal materials. Based on clustering among nine gastrointestinal metagenomes from five different monogastric hosts (dog, human, mice, cat and chicken), the cat metagenome clustered closely together with chicken in both phylogenetic and metabolic level (> 80%). Future studies are required to provide deeper understandings on both intrinsic and extrinsic effects such as impact of age, genetics and dietary interventions on the composition of the feline gastrointestinal microbiome.

Does evidence exist to include dietary therapy in the treatment of Crohn's disease?

Prescription drugs and surgery are two common medical therapies for Crohn's disease (CD), an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the GI tract. Unfortunately, certain drugs can cause serious side effects, and surgeries must often be repeated. No diet has been established to alleviate the pain and suffering of CD patients. This is curious given the fact that a higher prevalence of food sensitivities exist in this population of patients, and enteral nutrition is not only the first-line of therapy in Japan, but a known research method used to place the majority of CD patients into remission. Although not all patients respond equally to diet, many simply remove symptom-provoking foods, such as dairy, wheat, corn and certain fruits and vegetables. We suggest assisting these patients in their self-assessment of irritating and symptom-provoking foods by educating them in the use of a food-symptom diary followed by a customized elimination diet trialed for 2-4 weeks to determine if there is any benefit to the individual patient.

Characterization and quantification of feline fecal microbiota using cpn60 sequence-based methods and investigation of animal-to-animal variation in microbial population structure

The complex microbial community of the intestine plays a major role in animal health and diseases. Despite its significance to feline health and the significance of intestinal and fecal populations to the public health, little is known about the actual composition of the normal microbiota of the cat. To create a sequence-based inventory of feline fecal microbiota, we applied established methods exploiting the gene encoding the universal 60kDa chaperonin (cpn60) to create libraries of cloned cpn60 sequences from pooled fecal samples from five exclusively indoor and four outdoor, known predatory cats. Sequencing of 1248 clones from each library revealed diverse populations dominated by Actinobacteria (particularly bifidobacteria) and Firmicutes (particularly lactobacilli). To investigate the degree of animal-to-animal variation in species abundance, ten targets were selected from the libraries for analysis by quantitative real-time PCR. Quantitative PCR results showed substantial animal-to-animal variation in target abundance although most targets were detected in all cats. This study lays the foundation for future work aimed at understanding the dynamics of intestinal microbial communities and their role in feline health.

Long-Term Evaluation of Canine Perianal Fistula Disease Treated With Exclusive Fish and Potato Diet and Surgical Excision

The records of 33 dogs that had perianal fistula disease treated with en bloc surgical excision and bilateral anal saculectomy, and that were perioperatively administered an exclusive white fish and potato diet, were reviewed to determine outcome. By 1 year after surgery, 87.9% of the dogs had complete or near-complete resolution of visible fistula disease, while only 20.7% continued to have mild intermittent clinical signs. Fecal incontinence was not reported in any dog. Overall, complications were considerably less in both severity and frequency when compared with previous reports.

Molecular characterisation of the gut microflora of healthy and inflammatory bowel disease cats using fluorescence in situ hybridisation with special reference to Desulfovibrio spp

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a common cause of chronic large bowel diarrhoea in cats. Although the aetiology of IBD is unknown, an immune-mediated response to a luminal antigen is thought to be involved. As knowledge concerning the colonic microflora of cats is limited and requires further investigation, the purpose of this study was to determine the presence of specific bacterial groups in normal and IBD cats, and the potential role they play in the health of the host. Total bacterial populations, Bacteroides spp., Bifidobacterium spp., Clostridium histolyticum subgp., Lactobacillus-Enterococcus subgp. and Desulfovibrio spp. were enumerated in 34 healthy cats and 11 IBD cats using fluorescence in situ hybridisation. The study is one of the first to show the presence of Desulfovibrio in cats. Total bacteria, Bifidobacterium spp. and Bacteroides spp. counts were all significantly higher in healthy cats when compared with IBD cats, whereas Desulfovibrio spp. (producers of toxic sulphides) numbers were found to be significantly higher in colitic cats. The information obtained from this study suggests that modulation of bacterial flora by increasing bifidobacteria and decreasing Desulfovibrio spp. may be beneficial to cats with IBD. Dietary intervention may be an important aspect of their treatment.

Non–digestible oligosaccharides and defense functions: lessons learned from animal models

Animals are constantly exposed to a diversity of health challenges and the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is a major, if not the principal, site of exposure. Animal models and a limited number of human clinical studies have shown that the assemblages and metabolic activities of the resident bacteria are important determinants of the effectiveness of the various host defense mechanisms and thereby influence the ability of animals to respond to health challenges. The assemblages of bacteria resident in the GIT provide a first line of defense that can exclude invading pathogens, reduce the proliferation of opportunistic pathogens already resident in the GIT, and reduce the availability, carcinogenicity, or toxicity of noxious chemicals. The mucosa of the GIT is a second, multilayered line of defense that includes the mucous and other secretions, the epithelial cells, and immune-associated cells scattered within and under the epithelium. The final line of defense contends with pathogens or noxious chemicals that transcend the mucosal barrier and enter the host and consists of the innate and acquired components of the systemic immune system and the xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes. The lactic acid producing bacteria (LAB) are considered to be immunomodulatory and directly or indirectly influence the GIT and systemic defense functions. Corresponding with this, supplementing the diet with inulin, oligofructose, or other nondigestible oligosaccharides that increase the densities and metabolic capacities of the LAB enhances defense mechanisms of the host, increases resistance to various health challenges, and accelerates recovery of the GIT after disturbances.

A High Fiber Diet Responsive Case in a Poodle Dog with Long-Term Plant Eating Behavior

An 11-year-old, castrated male Miniature Poodle dog was referred due to daily plant eating followed by vomiting for 7 years. Each time the dog went out for a walk, he had been munched grass, and then vomited. There were no abnormal findings on medical examinations. Through behavior examination and consultation, we diagnosed this dog as having a plant eating problem. Because we assumed that the dog had eaten plants to supply of dietary deficiency or relieve digestive problems, advised the owner to discontinue supplying previous diet and to feed high-fiber diet. On the follow up, the owner said that the dog had not eaten plants and vomited from 3 days after initial dietary change. The dog has not shown any clinical signs for 13 months. This clinical finding shows a possibility that deficient diet, especially fiber, relates to the plant eating behavior of a dog.

Oral administration of butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, a butyrate-producing bacterium, decreases the formation of aberrant crypt foci in the colon and rectum of mice

Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, a butyrate-producing ruminal bacterium, was evaluated for use as a probiotic to prevent colorectal cancer. Oral administration to Jcl:ICR mice of a new strain of B. fibrisolvens (MDT-1) that produces butyrate at a high rate (10(9) cfu/dose) increased the rate of butyrate production by fecal microbes, suggesting that MDT-1 can grow in the gut. The number of colorectal aberrant crypt foci (ACF), putative preneoplastic lesions induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine, was reduced after MDT-1 administration (10(9) cfu/dose, 3 times/wk for 4 wk). The number of aberrant crypts (ACs), number of foci having 3 or 4 ACs per focus, and the percentage of mice having 3 or 4 ACs per focus were also reduced, suggesting that the progress of lesions was suppressed by MDT-1. Interestingly, the MDT-1 cell homogenate did not have a similar beneficial effect. MDT-1 had low beta-glucuronidase activity, and administration of MDT-1 reduced the beta-glucuronidase activity in the colorectal contents. The numbers of natural killer (NK) and NKT cells in the spleen were markedly enhanced in response to MDT-1. Decreased beta-glucuronidase activity and increased numbers of NK and NKT cells and butyrate production may explain in part why MDT-1 administration suppressed ACF formation. These results suggest that colorectal cancer may be prevented or suppressed by the utilization of MDT-1 as a probiotic. Administration of MDT-1 had no harmful effect on the health of mice at least for 3 mo.

The nutritional management of gastrointestinal tract disorders in companion animals

Dietary protein, carbohydrates, fats and fibre have marked influences on gastrointestinal tract function and dysfunction. This article reviews the nutritional management of common gastrointestinal disorders in companion animals and introduces some of the current areas of research including probiotics, prebiotics, protein-hydrolysate diets, immunonutrition and dietary fibre. Nutritional management of oesophageal disease revolves around varying the consistency of the diet and feeding the animal from an elevated container. Provision of bowel rest remains the mainstay of the management of acute gastroenteritis but food-based oral rehydration solutions are a useful adjunct. The recommended diet for chronic small bowel diarrhoea is a highly digestible, hypoallergenic, gluten-free, low-lactose and low-fat diet with modest amounts of fermentable fibre. The use of probiotics in the management of diarrhoea in companion animals has not yet been shown to be beneficial. It is likely that prebiotics will prove more effective than probiotics in the prevention of enteropathogenic infections. Approximately 50% of cats in New Zealand that suffer from chronic idiopathic vomiting or diarrhoea will respond to a novel-protein-elimination diet and approximately 30% meet the diagnostic criteria for food sensitivity. Growing evidence supports the use of protein-hydrolysate diets in the management of inflammatory bowel disease and further advances in immunonutrition are expected. The dietary management of colitis should include a hypoallergenic diet with a fermentable fibre source. Manipulation of the diet provides clinicians a powerful therapeutic strategy to be used alone or concurrently with drug therapy in the management of gastrointestinal disorders.