2021 AAHA Nutrition and Weight Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats

Incretin therapy in feline diabetes mellitus - A review of the current state of research

Incretin hormones potentiate the glucose-induced insulin secretion following enteral nutrient intake. The best characterised incretin hormones are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) which are produced in and secreted from the gut in response to nutrient ingestion. The property of incretins to enhance endogenous insulin secretion only at elevated blood glucose levels makes them interesting therapeutics for type 2 diabetes mellitus with a better safety profile than exogenous insulin. While incretin therapeutics (especially GLP-1 agonists, and more recently also GLP-1 / GIP dual agonists and other drugs that influence the incretin metabolism (e.g., dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors)) are already widely used treatment options for human type 2 diabetes, these drugs are not yet approved for the therapy of feline diabetes mellitus. This review provides an introduction to incretins and feline diabetes mellitus in general and summarises the current study situation on incretins as therapeutics for feline diabetes mellitus to assess their possible future potential in feline medicine. Studies to date on the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) in healthy cats largely confirm their insulinotropic effect known from other species. In diabetic cats, GLP-1RAs appear to significantly reduce glycaemic variability (GV, an indicator for the quality of glycaemic control), which is important for the management of the disease and prevention of long-term complications. However, for widespread use in feline diabetes mellitus, further studies are required that include larger numbers of diabetic cats, and that consider and test a possible need for dose adjustments to overweight and diabetic cats. Also evaluation of the outcome of GLP-1RA monotherapy will be neceessary.

A randomized, controlled clinical trial demonstrates improved owner-assessed cognitive function in senior dogs receiving a senolytic and NAD+ precursor combination

Age-related decline in mobility and cognition are associated with cellular senescence and NAD + depletion in dogs and people. A combination of a novel NAD + precursor and senolytic, LY-D6/2, was examined in this randomized controlled trial. Seventy dogs with mild to moderate cognitive impairment were enrolled and allocated into placebo, low or full dose groups. Primary outcomes were change in cognitive impairment measured with the owner-reported Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Rating (CCDR) scale and change in activity measured with physical activity monitors. Fifty-nine dogs completed evaluations at the 3-month primary endpoint, and 51 reached the 6-month secondary endpoint. There was a significant difference in CCDR score across treatment groups from baseline to the primary endpoint (p = 0.02) with the largest decrease in the full dose group. No difference was detected between groups using in house cognitive testing. There were no significant differences between groups in changes in measured activity. The proportion of dogs that improved in frailty and owner-reported activity levels and happiness was higher in the full dose group than other groups, however this difference was not significant. Adverse events occurred equally across groups. All groups showed improvement in cognition, frailty, and activity suggesting placebo effect and benefits of trial participation. We conclude that LY-D6/2 improves owner-assessed cognitive function over a 3-month period and may have broader, but more subtle effects on frailty, activity and happiness as reported by owners.

High starch intake favours body weight control in neutered and spayed cats living in homes fed ad libitum

Different starch-to-protein ratios were compared among neutered and spayed domiciled cats. Male and female obese and non-obese cats were fed kibble diets ad libitum for 4 months high in starch (HS (38 % crude protein (CP)): starch 32 %, protein 38 %; DM basis) or high in protein (HP (55 % CP): starch 19 %, protein 55 %) but similar in energy and fat in a crossover design. Physical activity was evaluated using an accelerometer, and body composition (BC), energy expenditure (EE) and water turnover (WT) using the doubly labelled water method. Results were compared in a 2 diet × 2 sex × 2 body condition factorial arrangement. Cats fed the HS (38 % CP) diet maintained a constant body weight, but lean mass (LM) tended to be reduced in female obese but to be increased in male non-obese (P < 0·08) and increased in female non-obese cats (P = 0·01). The HP (55 % CP) diet induced an increase in cat body weight and LM (P < 0·05) without altering BC proportion. EE tended to be higher in males (351 (se 8) kJ/kg0·67/d) than females (330 (se 8) kJ/kg0·67/d; P = 0·06), was unaffected by diet or BC, decreased as age increased (R 2 0·44; P < 0·01) and increased as physical activity increased (R 2 0·58; P < 0·01). WT was higher for the HP (55 % CP) diet (P < 0·01) and increased with EE (R 2 0·65; P < 0·01). The HS (38 % CP) diet favoured body weight control during 4 months of ad libitum feeding. Caution is necessary to balance protein in diets of female obese cats over 5 years, as they may have low energy and food intake, with LM loss.

Gut microbiota promoting propionic acid production accompanies caloric restriction-induced intentional weight loss in cats

Rodent models and human clinical studies have shown gut microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) play roles in obesity and insulin resistance. These roles have been minimally explored in cats, where in the USA an estimated 60% of cats are overweight or obese. Overweight/obese research cats (n = 7) were transitioned from a maintenance diet to a reduced calorie diet fed ad libitum for 7 days, then calories were restricted to achieve 1-2% weight loss per week for an additional 77 days. Cats then received their original maintenance diet again for 14 days. Significant intentional weight loss was noted after calorie restriction (adjusted p < 0.0001). 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and targeted SCFA metabolomics were performed on fecal samples. Fecal microbial community structure significantly differed between the four study phases (PERMANOVA p = 0.011). Fecal propionic acid was significantly higher during caloric restriction-induced weight loss (adjusted p < 0.05). Repeated measures correlation revealed the relative abundances of Prevotella 9 copri (correlation coefficient = 0.532, 95% CI (0.275, 0.717), p = 0.0002) significantly correlated with propionic acid composition. Like humans, obese cats experienced an altered microbial community structure and function, favoring propionic acid production, during caloric restriction-induced weight loss.

Retrospective investigation of the energy requirements for weight loss and weight maintenance after weight loss programme in obese dogs

Obesity is a highly prevalent disease in dogs and is characterized by the excessive accumulation of adipose tissue that results in metabolic changes. Its treatment is based on a negative energy balance focusing on energy restriction. However, there are few studies in dogs that assessed the energy intake needed for adequate weight loss and to weight maintenance afterward. The aim of this study was to evaluate data about the treatment of canine obesity, with emphasis on energy restriction to induce weight loss and to maintain body weight (BW) and ideal body condition after weight loss. This was a retrospective study in which records of obese dogs from a veterinary teaching hospital were assessed between 2014 and 2020. Sixteen dogs were considered in the study according to inclusion and exclusion criteria and 10 of these participated in the maintenance phase after weight loss. The animals lost a mean of 23.2% their initial weight in a mean of 422 days. The mean weekly weight loss rate was 0.58% of BW, and the mean daily energy intake for weight loss was 59 kcal/kg current BW0.75. When the target BW was considered, which was defined as the current weight minus 10% for every point in the body condition score scale above 5, the mean energy for weight loss was 71 kcal/kg target BW0.75. In the maintenance phase, the animals were assessed for a mean of 134 days. The mean energy intake to maintenance BW was 70 kcal/kg BW0.75. The lower energy requirement of obese dogs during and after weight loss can work as an alert for the formulations of therapeutic weight loss diets to contain a high nutrient density focusing on the wellbeing, health, and quality of life of obese dogs, not just for the weight loss phase, but a diet for the weight maintenance phase.

Pet Wellness and Vitamin A: A Narrative Overview

The health of companion animals, particularly dogs and cats, is significantly influenced by nutrition, with vitamins playing a crucial role. Vitamin A, in particular, is indispensable, with diverse roles ranging from vision to immune modulation and reproduction. Despite its importance, the metabolism and dietary requirements of vitamin A in companion animals remain complex and not fully understood. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the historical perspective, the digestion, the metabolism, the physiological roles, the deficiency, the excess, and the interactions with other micronutrients of vitamin A in companion animals. Additionally, it highlights future research directions and gaps in our understanding. Insights into the metabolism of vitamin A in companion animals, personalized nutrition strategies based on genetic variability, longitudinal studies tracking the status of vitamin A, and investigations into its immunomodulatory effects are crucial for optimizing pet health and wellness. Furthermore, understanding the stability and bioavailability of vitamin A in pet food formulations is essential for ensuring the provision of adequate micronutrients. Overall, this review underscores the importance of vitamin A in companion animal nutrition and the need for further research to enhance our understanding and to optimize dietary recommendations for pet health and well-being.

Description of the fasted serum metabolomic signature of lean and obese cats at maintenance and of obese cats under energy restriction

This study aimed to investigate the serum metabolomic profile of obese and lean cats as well as obese cats before and after energy restriction for weight loss. Thirty cats, 16 obese (body condition score 8 to 9/9) and 14 lean (body condition score 4 to 5/9), were fed a veterinary weight loss food during a 4-week period of weight maintenance (L-MAINT and O-MAINT). The 16 obese cats were then energy restricted by a 60% energy intake reduction with the same food for a 10-week period (O-RESTRICT). Fasted serum metabolites were measured using nuclear magnetic resonance and direct infusion mass spectrometry after the maintenance period for L-MAINT and O-MAINT cats and after the energy restriction period for O-RESTRICT and compared between groups using a two-sided t-test. Obese cats lost 672 g ± 303 g over the 10-week restriction period, representing a weight loss rate of 0.94 ± 0.28% per week. Glycine, l-alanine, l-histidine, l-glutamine, 2-hydroxybutyrate, isobutryric acid, citric acid, creatine, and methanol were greater in O-RESTRICT compared to O-MAINT. There was a greater concentration of long-chain acylcarnitines in O-RESTRICT compared to both O-MAINT and L-MAINT, and greater total amino acids compared to O-MAINT. Glycerol and 3-hydroxybutyric acid were greater in O-MAINT compared to L-MAINT, as were several lysophosphatidylcholines. Thus, energy restriction resulted in increased dispensable amino acids in feline serum which could indicate alterations in amino acid partitioning. An increase in lipolysis was not evident, though greater circulating acylcarnitines were observed, suggesting that fatty acid oxidation rates may have been greater under calorie restriction. More research is needed to elucidate energy metabolism and substrate utilization, specifically fatty acid oxidation and methyl status, during energy restriction in strict carnivorous cats to optimize weight loss.

Identifying the target population and preventive strategies to combat feline obesity

Feline obesity continues to be a priority health and welfare issue. Most research surrounding obesity currently focuses on obesity treatment. However, treatment for feline obesity is slow, often unsuccessful and not without consequences. Identifying high-risk populations for obesity onset is crucial for developing and implementing preventive strategies. This review identifies post-gonadectomy kittens aged 5-12 months as the primary target population for obesity prevention in domestic cats and highlights dietary and feeding management strategies to be implemented for obesity prevention.

Key Nutritional Factors and Obesity Prevention in Companion Psittacine Birds

Proper nutrition and feeding management are the foundation of good health. Nutrition is one area the veterinary health care team can affect. Optimal feeding practices of companion birds are constantly being evaluated. It is critical that health care team members understand the key nutritional factors in avian nutrition, as this allows for the proper recommendation and education of nutrition to bird owners. Depending on the species, today's pet birds may live decades, so it is imperative that proper nutrition habits be adopted by the owner for their avian pet. Educating the owner on proper nutrition and prevention of obesity is one of the most important roles of the veterinary health care team.

Nutritional management of a dog with hepatic enzymopathy suspected to be secondary to copper-associated hepatitis: a case report

A 4-year-old, female-spayed American Bulldog presented to the Ontario Veterinary College's Health Sciences Center's Clinical Nutrition Service for nutritional management of hepatic enzymopathy and suspected copper-associated hepatitis. Medical history revealed a 3-month history of gradually increasing serum ALT. Additional diagnostics included negative Leptospira titters, normal bile acids, and laparoscopic liver biopsy. Histopathology findings were consistent with diffuse moderate vacuole hepatocellular degeneration, mild positive copper staining, mild chronic lymphoplasmacytic hepatitis both portal and central, and mild biliary hyperplasia. Hepatic copper quantification results were above normal ranges (630 μg/g dry tissue), but below those seen in familial copper-associated hepatitis (>800-1,000 μg/g dry tissue). The patient was prescribed ursodeoxycholic acid, recommended to be fed a homemade diet (HMD), and referred for a nutrition consult. Two days before the nutrition consult, serum ALT fell within the normal range. The body condition score was 5/9, with a good muscle condition score and the dog's appetite and body weight remained stable. Energy intake was appropriate for maintenance. Key nutrient levels of all diets reported were compared to industry standards (AAFCO, NRC, and FEDIAF). Diet history included a commercially available raw meat-based diet (RMBD), of unknown copper content; a high energy commercial dry food (HEC), with copper content higher than the maximum recommended by FEDIAF and immediately prior to nutrition consult the patient had been eating an unbalanced homemade diet (HMD1) for 4 weeks. HMD1 was low in copper and deficient in the hepatoprotectant nutrients vitamin E and zinc. As per the owner's preference and to accommodate the patient's unique nutritional needs, a homemade diet addressing key nutrients for liver disease was formulated (HMD2), with copper content just above the recommended minimum. The new diet was found palatable and the patient's body weight, body, and muscle condition scores remained unchanged. Two months after starting HMD2, all bloodwork values remained within the normal range, including ALT. The reduction of dietary copper content likely reduced serum ALT. However, unbalanced diets cause a risk of nutrient deficiencies and excess. This dog was maintained with no known adverse effects on a complete and balanced HMD diet with a moderately low copper content, moderate protein, and inclusion of hepatoprotective nutrients.

Website Investigation of Pet Weight Management-Related Information and Services Offered by Ontario Veterinary Practices

Pet owners rely on information and advice from their veterinary practice to effectively manage their pet's weight. This study investigated weight management information and services displayed on practice websites in Ontario, Canada. Information collected from the websites of 50 randomly selected small and mixed-animal practices included practice and staff demographics and the type of weight management services, products, and information advertised or displayed. The most frequently advertised weight management service and product were nutritional counselling (34%) and therapeutic diets (25%), respectively. Current bodyweight measurement was advertised on just over half of the websites (54%), while physical therapy counselling was the least-advertised service (16%). Further statistical analyses were performed in an exploratory fashion to determine areas for future research. Binary logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the association between practice demographics and the type of weight management information advertised online. A maximum of two predictor variables were included in each regression model. Exploratory analyses indicated that when controlling for the number of veterinarians in each practice, having a higher number of veterinary technicians was associated with increased odds of a practice website advertising current bodyweight measurement by 80.1% (odds ratio (OR) = 1.80, p = 0.05). Additionally, when controlling the number of veterinary technicians, having a higher number of veterinarians was associated with increased odds of a practice website advertising sales of therapeutic diets by 119.0% (OR = 2.19, p = 0.04). When using corporate practices as reference, independently owned practices had decreased odds of advertising sales of treats and weight management accessories on their practice websites by 78.7% (OR = 0.21, p = 0.03). These preliminary results suggest that advertising weight management information is not prioritized on veterinary practice websites in Ontario, especially those with lower staff numbers. The findings of this study raise awareness on the current state of weight management promotion for pets on veterinary practice websites and highlight ways to improve upon a practice's online presence.

Gut microbiota promoting propionic acid production accompanies diet-induced intentional weight loss in cats

Rodent models and human clinical studies have shown gut microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) play roles in obesity and insulin resistance. These roles have been minimally explored in cats, where in the USA an estimated 60% of cats are overweight or obese. Overweight/obese research cats (n = 7) were transitioned from a maintenance diet to a reduced calorie diet fed ad libitum for seven days, then calories were restricted to achieve 1-2% weight loss per week for an additional 77 days. Cats then received their original maintenance diet again for 14 days. Significant intentional weight loss was noted after calorie restriction (adjusted p < 0.0001). 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and targeted SCFA metabolomics were performed on fecal samples. Fecal microbial community structure significantly differed between the four study phases (PERMANOVA p = 0.011). Fecal propionic acid was significantly higher during diet-induced weight loss (adjusted p < 0.05). Spearman correlation revealed the relative abundances of Prevotella 9 copri (ρ = 0.6385, p = 0.0006) and Blautia caecimuris (ρ = 0.5269, p = 0.0068) were significantly correlated with propionic acid composition. Like humans, obese cats experienced an altered microbial community structure and function, favoring propionic acid production, during diet-induced weight loss.

COAST Development Group's international consensus guidelines for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis

This report describes consensus guidelines and recommendations for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis (OA) according to the "Canine OsteoArthritis Staging Tool excluding radiography" (COASTeR) stage of OA, by the COAST Development Group. The recommendations are based on evidence-based medicine and clinical experience and are proposed with international relevance in mind. The aim is to provide veterinarians with a practical reference to consolidated information and to support the development of patient-specific OA management protocols and informed treatment choices based on the stage of OA.

Conversation Analysis of Clients' Active Resistance to Veterinarians' Proposals for Long-Term Dietary Change in Companion Animal Practice in Ontario, Canada

The impact of nutrition on animal health requires effective diet-related treatment recommendations in veterinary medicine. Despite low reported rates of veterinary clients' adherence with dietary recommendations, little is known about how clients' resistance to nutritional proposals is managed in the talk of veterinary consultations. This conversation-analytic study investigated clients' active resistance to veterinarians' proposals for long-term changes to cats' and dogs' diets in 23 segments from 21 videotaped appointments in Ontario, Canada. Clients' accounts suggested the proposals themselves or nutritional modifications were unnecessary, inappropriate, or unfeasible, most often based on patients' food preferences, multi-pet feeding issues, current use of equivalent strategies, or current enactment of the proposed changes. Resistance arose when veterinarians constructed proposals without first gathering relevant diet- and patient-related information, soliciting clients' perspectives, or educating them about the benefits of recommended changes. Veterinarians subsequently accommodated clients' concerns more often when resistance involved patient- or client-related issues rather than clients' lack of medical knowledge. The design of subsequent proposals accepted by clients frequently replaced dietary changes in the initial proposals with nutritional or non-nutritional alternatives and oriented to uncertainty about adherence. This study provides evidence-based findings for developing effective communication training and practice guidelines in nutritional assessment and shared decision-making.

Different Diet Energy Levels Alter Body Condition, Glucolipid Metabolism, Fecal Microbiota and Metabolites in Adult Beagle Dogs

Diet energy is a key component of pet food, but it is usually ignored during pet food development and pet owners also have limited knowledge of its importance. This study aimed to explore the effect of diet energy on the body condition, glucolipid metabolism, fecal microbiota and metabolites of adult beagles and analyze the relation between diet and host and gut microbiota. Eighteen healthy adult neutered male beagles were selected and randomly divided into three groups. Diets were formulated with three metabolizable energy (ME) levels: the low-energy (Le) group consumed a diet of 13.88 MJ/kg ME; the medium-energy (Me) group consumed a diet of 15.04 MJ/kg ME; and the high-energy (He) group consumed a diet of 17.05 MJ/kg ME. Moreover, the protein content of all these three diets was 29%. The experiment lasted 10 weeks, with a two-week acclimation period and an eight-week test phase. Body weight, body condition score (BCS), muscle condition score (MCS) and body fat index (BFI) decreased in the Le group, and the changes in these factors in the Le group were significantly higher than in the other groups (p < 0.05). The serum glucose and lipid levels of the Le and He groups changed over time (p < 0.05), but those of the Me group were stable (p > 0.05). The fecal pH of the Le and He groups decreased at the end of the trial (p < 0.05) and we found that the profiles of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bile acids (BAs) changed greatly, especially secondary BAs (p < 0.05). As SCFAs and secondary BAs are metabolites of the gut microbiota, the fecal microbiota was also measured. Fecal 16S rRNA gene sequencing found that the Me group had higher α-diversity indices (p < 0.05). The Me group had notably higher levels of gut probiotics, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Bacteroides plebeius and Blautia producta (p < 0.05). The diet-host-fecal microbiota interactions were determined by network analysis, and fecal metabolites may help to determine the best physical condition of dogs, assisting pet food development. Overall, feeding dogs low- or high-energy diets was harmful for glucostasis and promoted the relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria in the gut, while a medium-energy diet maintained an ideal body condition. We concluded that dogs that are fed a low-energy diet for an extended period may become lean and lose muscle mass, but diets with low energy levels and 29% protein may not supply enough protein for dogs losing weight.

Influence of dietary supplementation with new Lactobacillus strains on hematology, serum biochemistry, nutritional status, digestibility, enzyme activities, and immunity in dogs

Background and Aim

The use of antibiotics is associated with many side effects, with the development of bacterial resistance being particularly important. It has been found that dogs and their owners host similar resistant bacteria. This contributes to increased concurrent bacterial resistance and a possible trend of increased bacterial resistance in humans. Thus, using probiotics in dogs is an alternative option for preventing and reducing the transmission of bacterial resistance from dogs to humans. Probiotics are characterized by their potential to endure low pH levels and high concentrations of bile acids in the gastrointestinal tract. Lactobacilli are more acid-tolerant and resistant to bile acid, so they are ideal probiotics to be added to the canine diet. According to the previous studies, the benefits of Lactobacillus are a stable nutritional status and greater digestibility, along with improved fecal scores and reduced ammonia in dogs. However, no studies have been conducted with Lactobacillus plantarum CM20-8 (TISTR 2676), Lactobacillus acidophilus Im10 (TISTR 2734), Lactobacillus rhamnosus L12-2 (TISTR 2716), Lactobacillus paracasei KT-5 (TISTR 2688), and Lactobacillus fermentum CM14-8 (TISTR 2720), or their use in combination. Hence, the aim of this study was to examine the possible effects of the aforementioned Lactobacillus on hematological indices, nutritional status, digestibility, enzyme activities, and immunity in dogs. From the results, a new and safe strain of Lactobacillus may emerge for use as a probiotic in the future.

Materials and Methods

In this study, 35 dogs were allocated equally into seven groups: Group 1 received a basal diet (control), while Groups 2-7 received the same diet further supplemented with L. plantarum CM20-8 (TISTR 2676), L. acidophilus Im10 (TISTR 2734), L. rhamnosus L12-2 (TISTR 2716), L. paracasei KT-5 (TISTR 2688), L. fermentum CM14-8 (TISTR 2720), or a mixture of probiotics (L. plantarum, L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, L. paracasei, and L. fermentum), respectively. All probiotics were administered at a dose of 10⁹ colony-forming unit/dog for 28 days. Nutritional status, hematology, serum biochemistry, digestibility, enzyme activities, and immunity parameters were assessed.

Results

There were no differences among the groups in body weight, feed intake, body condition score, fecal score, and fecal dry matter on the different sampling days. The hematology and serum biochemical analyses showed a difference only in creatinine activity (p < 0.001), with higher values in group L. fermentum CM14-8 (TISTR 2720) and lower values in group L. paracasei KT-5 (TISTR 2688) than in controls. However, all measurements were within the normal laboratory reference ranges. Fecal characteristics (fecal ammonia and fecal pH), fecal digestive enzyme activities, serum immunoglobulin (IgG), and fecal IgA did not differ significantly among the groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Lactobacillus plantarum CM20-8 (TISTR 2676), L. acidophilus Im10 (TISTR 2734), L. rhamnosus L12-2 (TISTR 2716), L. paracasei KT-5 (TISTR 2688), and L. fermentum CM14-8 (TISTR 2720), along with their mixture are safe and non-pathogenic additives for use as new probiotic strains of Lactobacillus in dogs. Although the new Lactobacillus strains had no effect on hematology, serum biochemistry, nutritional status, digestive enzyme activities, immunity, body weight, feed intake, or body condition scores in dogs, further studies should investigate the intestinal microbiota and the development of clinical treatments.

Nutritional Management of Cats and Dogs with Diabetes Mellitus

This article reviews the nutritional assessment and management of diabetic dogs and cats. It discusses how to determine appropriate nutritional goals for individual patients, including comorbid patients with diabetes. Considerations for macronutrient and micronutrient modifications will be reviewed.

Changes in gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids are involved in the process of canine obesity after neutering

Neutering is a significant risk factor for obesity in dogs. Changes in gut microbiota and its metabolites have been identified as a key player during obesity progression. However, the mechanisms that promote neuter-associated weight gain are not well understood. Therefore, in this study, sixteen clinically healthy Beagle dogs (6 male and 10 female, mean age = 8.22 ± 0.25 mo old) were neutered. Body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS) were recorded at 1 d before neutering, 3, 6, 10, 16, and 21 mo after neutering. Dogs were grouped based on their BCS as ideal weight group (IW, n = 4, mean BW = 13.22 ± 1.30 kg, mean BCS = 5.00 ± 0.41) and obese group (OB, n = 12, mean BW = 18.57 ± 1.08 kg, mean BCS = 7.92 ± 0.82) at 21 mo after neutering. Serum lipid profile, glucose, and hormones and fecal microbiota and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were measured. Our results showed that OB dogs had greater (P < 0.0001) BW (18.57 vs. 13.22 kg), BCS (7.92 vs. 5.00), and average daily gain (12.27 vs. 5.69 g/d) than IW dogs at 21 mo after neutering, and the obesity rate was up to 60%. In addition, significant increases (P < 0.05) in serum triglyceride (TG, 1.10 vs. 0.56 mmol/L) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, 6.96 vs. 5.40 mmol/L) levels and a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in serum adiponectin (APN, 54.06 vs. 58.39 μg/L) level were observed in OB dogs; serum total cholesterol (4.83 vs. 3.75 mmol/L) (P = 0.075) and leptin (LEP, 2.82 vs. 2.53 μg/L) (P = 0.065) levels tended to be greater in OB dogs; there was a trend towards a lower (P = 0.092) APN/LEP (19.32 vs. 21.81) in OB dogs. Results of fecal microbial alpha-diversity showed that Observed_species and Chao1 indices tended to be lower (P = 0.069) in OB dogs. The STAMP and LEfSe analyses revealed that OB dogs had a greater (P < 0.05 and LDA > 2) reduction in relative abundances of Bacteroides, Prevotella_9, and Megamonas than IW dogs. In addition, OB dogs also had greater (P < 0.05) reduction in fecal acetate, propionate, and butyrate concentrations than IW dogs. Moreover, clear negative correlations (|r| > 0.5 and P < 0.05) were found between SCFAs-producing bacteria and BW, TG, and HDL-C. The functional predictions of microbial communities based on PICRUSt2 analysis revealed that lipid metabolism and endocrine system were significantly disturbed in obese dogs after neutering. Thus, intervention with SCFAs-producing bacteria might represent a new target for the prevention or treatment of canine obesity after neutering. Moreover, weight control before neutering may also contribute to the prevention of canine obesity after neutering.

Effects of overfeeding on the digestive efficiency, voluntary physical activity levels, and fecal characteristics and microbiota of adult cats

The incidence of feline obesity continues to rise despite it being a preventable disease. There are many risks and health perturbations associated with obesity, with several of those impacting a pet's quality of life, wellness, and longevity. Feline obesity is commonly studied, but most research has been focused on weight loss rather than weight gain. To our knowledge, feline studies have not examined the implications of overfeeding and weight gain on gastrointestinal transit time (GTT) nor the association it has with the fecal microbiota. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the effects of overfeeding and weight gain on apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), GTT, blood hormones, serum metabolites, hematology, fecal microbiota populations, and voluntary physical activity of cats. Eleven lean adult spayed female cats [body weight (BW) = 4.11 ± 0.43 kg; body condition score = 5.41 ± 0.3; age = 5.22 ± 0.03 y] were used in a longitudinal weight gain study. After a 2-wk baseline phase, cats were allowed to overeat for 18 wk. A commercially available complete and balanced diet was fed during the baseline phase to identify the intake needed to maintain BW. Cats were then fed the same diet ad libitum to induce weight gain. Fecal samples, blood samples, and voluntary physical activity data were collected at baseline (week 0) and 6, 12, and 18 wk after weight gain. Fecal samples were collected for microbiota analysis, determination of ATTD, and GTT measurement while blood samples were collected for serum chemistry, hematology, and insulin and leptin measurements. Microbiota data were evaluated using QIIME2. All other measures were evaluated statistically using the mixed models procedure of SAS using repeated measures analysis, with time effects being the focus. A P < 0.05 was considered significant. The ATTD of dry matter (P = 0.0061), organic matter (P = 0.0130), crude protein (P < 0.0001), fat (P = 0.0002), and gross energy (P = 0.0002), and GTT (P = 0.0418) decreased with overfeeding and weight gain. Fecal bacterial alpha diversity measures were unchanged, but fecal bacterial beta diversity was impacted (P < 0.05) with overfeeding and weight gain. The relative abundances of 16 bacterial genera, including Bifidobacterium, Collinsella, Erysipelatoclostridium were affected (P < 0.05) by overfeeding and weight gain. In conclusion, overfeeding and subsequent weight gain reduced ATTD, reduced GTT, and caused changes to the fecal microbial community of adult cats.

2023 AAHA Senior Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats

Veterinary professionals are taught to recognize that "old age is not a disease." However, clients may have the perception that older dogs and cats undergo an unavoidable physical, mental, and behavioral decline attributable simply to old age. The veterinary team's role includes providing medical care and support to senior pets to maintain their quality of life, as well as supporting and educating clients on proper senior animal care and addressing any misconceptions about the aging process. These Guidelines describe a systematic approach to the healthcare of the senior pet that is based on an evidence-guided assessment of both healthy and unhealthy canine and feline patients. By using evidence-guided medicine, which may include conventional and integrative approaches as well as environmental management for the senior pet, the patient's quality of life can be enhanced and potentially extended during this vulnerable life stage. Developing a senior program for the veterinary practice requires appropriate training of the entire healthcare team and includes a robust client education program that focuses on the wellbeing of the senior pet. Palliative and hospice care should be included in the education and information provided for both the veterinary team and the families of senior pets.

An overweight/obesity survey among dogs and cats attended at a veterinary teaching hospital during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT Anecdotal reports suggest that the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (COVID-19) has increased overweight and obesity prevalence in dogs and cats. The present report aimed to perform a retrospective overweight/obesity survey on 1,001 consecutive cases attended in the Veterinary Clinics Hospital from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul during its reopening to the public after months closed due to the pandemic. The overall overweight or obesity observed prevalence was 36.63%; being the frequency in cats slightly greater (38.37%) than compared to dogs (35.76%). No local increase in these frequencies was detected. Neutering (dogs and cats), age greater than 10 years (dogs), and male gender (cats) were factors associated with overweight/obesity. Bodyweight was not registered in about 30% of the medical records, while the body condition score was not registered in about 50% of the cases. These flaws were more often observed in feline medical records and efforts to improve these data records are warranted.

Effects of black soldier fly larvae as protein or fat sources on apparent nutrient digestibility, fecal microbiota, and metabolic profiles in beagle dogs

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) act as a biological system converting organic waste into protein and fat with great potential application as pet food. To evaluate the feasibility of BSFL as a protein and fat source, 20 healthy beagle dogs were fed three dietary treatments for 65 days, including (1) a basal diet group (CON group), (2) a basal diet that replaced 20% chicken meal with defatted black soldier fly larvae protein group (DBP group), and (3) a basal diet that replaced 8% mixed oil with black soldier fly larvae fat group (BF group). This study demonstrated that the serum biochemical parameters among the three groups were within the normal range. No difference (p > 0.05) was observed in body weight, body condition score, or antioxidant capacity among the three groups. The mean IFN-γ level in the BF group was lower than that in the CON group, but there was no significant difference (p > 0.05). Compared with the CON group, the DBP group had decreasing (p < 0.05) apparent crude protein and organic matter digestibility. Furthermore, the DBP group had decreasing (p < 0.05) fecal propionate, butyrate, total short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), isobutyrate, isovalerate, and total branched-chain fatty acids (BCFAs) and increased (p < 0.05) fecal pH. Nevertheless, there was no difference (p > 0.05) in SCFAs or BCFAs between the CON and BF groups. The fecal microbiota revealed that Lachnoclostridium, Clostridioides, Blautia, and Enterococcus were significantly enriched in the DBP group, and Terrisporobacter and Ralstonia were significantly enriched in the BF group. The fecal metabolome showed that the DBP group significantly influenced 18 metabolic pathways. Integrating biological and statistical correlation analysis on differential fecal microbiota and metabolites between the CON and DBP groups found that Lachnoclostridium, Clostridioides, and Enterococcus were positively associated with biotin. In addition, Lachnoclostridium, Clostridioides, Blautia, and Enterococcus were positively associated with niacinamide, phenylalanine acid, fumaric acid, and citrulline and negatively associated with cadavrine, putrescine, saccharopine, and butyrate. In all, 20% DBP restrained the apparent CP and OM digestibility, thereby affecting hindgut microbial metabolism. In contrast, 8% BF in the dog diet showed no adverse effects on body condition, apparent nutrient digestibility, fecal microbiota, or metabolic profiles. Our findings are conducive to opening a new avenue for the exploitation of DBP and BF as protein and fat resources in dog food.

Nutrient and Maillard reaction product concentrations of commercially available pet foods and treats

Thermal processing is used to produce most commercial pet foods and treats to improve safety, shelf life, nutritional characteristics, texture, and nutrient digestibility. However, heat treatments can degrade protein quality by damaging essential amino acids, as well as contribute to the Maillard reaction. The Maillard reaction forms melanoidins that favorably improve food qualities (e.g., color, flavor, aroma), but also form Maillard reaction products (MRP) and advanced glycation end-products that may negatively affect health. Because commercial pet diets are frequently fed to domestic cats and dogs throughout their lifetimes, it is critical to quantify MRP concentrations and understand the variables that influence their formation so future diets may be formulated with that in mind. Because few research studies on MRP in pet diets have been conducted, the goals of this study were to measure the MRP in commercial pet foods and treats, estimate pet MRP intake, and correlate MRP with dietary macronutrient concentrations. Fifty-three dry and wet dog foods, dog treats, and cat foods were analyzed for dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, acid-hydrolyzed fat, total dietary fiber, and gross energy using standard techniques. MRP were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Data were analyzed using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS 9.4. Dry foods had lower reactive lysine concentrations and reactive lysine: total lysine ratios (indicator of damage) than wet foods. Wet foods had more fructoselysine (FRUC) than dry foods; however, dry dog treats contained more FRUC than wet dog treats. The greatest 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural (HMF) concentrations were measured in dry and wet dog foods, whereas the lowest HMF concentrations were measured in dry and wet cat foods. Based on dietary concentrations and estimated food intakes, dogs and cats fed wet foods are more likely to consume higher carboxymethyllysine and FRUC concentrations than those fed dry foods. However, dogs fed wet foods are more likely to consume higher HMF concentrations than those fed dry foods. In cats, those fed dry foods would consume higher HMF concentrations than those fed wet foods. We demonstrated that pet foods and treats contain highly variable MRP concentrations and depend on diet/treat type. In general, higher MRP concentrations were measured in wet pet foods and dry treats. While these findings are valuable, in vivo testing is needed to determine if and how MRP consumption affect pet health.

Epidemiological Study of the Occurrence of Typhus Group Rickettsia Natural Infection in Domiciliated Dogs from a Rural Community in South-Eastern Mexico

Simple Summary

Rickettsioses are relevant emergent and reemergent zoonoses in the Americas, including Mexico. Murine typhus caused by typhus group (TG) Rickettsia is prevalent in humans and their companion animals, such as dogs. This study found that 23.9% of the dogs (34/142) were infected by TG Rickettsia in Maxcanú, Yucatan (southeastern Mexico). Statistical analyses showed that reduced outdoor activities, age, sex and previous antiparasitic treatment are associated factors with less risk of TG Rickettsia infection in the sampled dogs. Monitoring and controlling these factors could help to restrict the enzootic transmission risk and prevent the potential zoonotic transmission.

Abstract

The aim is to describe the Typhus group (TG) Rickettsia infection in dogs and to identify factors associated with this infection. We collected blood samples and gathered exposure and clinical data of 142 dogs from a rural community of Yucatan. The Rickettsia group was determined by semi-nested PCR. Generalized linear models with binomial error distribution were used to model the associated factors from the dog sample for risk ratio (RR) estimation. Thirty-four dogs (23.9%) showed molecular evidence of TG Rickettsia DNA. The multivariate model showed that mixed-breed dogs (RR = 0.06) and dogs that had received antiparasitic treatment (RR = 0.049) had a lower risk of getting infected, taking as reference the purebred group and the non-treated dogs, respectively. Looking at variable interactions, adult dogs without outdoor activities had a lower infection risk than puppies (RR = 0.26). Among dogs with antiparasitic treatment, females had a higher infection risk than male dogs (RR = 26.2). The results showed enzootic TG Rickettsia circulation in dogs of a rural community. The factors outdoor activities, age and previous antiparasitic treatment, as well as the clinical variables signs of hemorrhages and epistaxis, were associated with a less chance of natural infection in the studied dogs. Prevention and control of the enzootic transmission risk of TG Rickettsia should help to reduce the potential zoonotic transmission of this pathogen.

Home-cooked diets cost more than commercially prepared dry kibble diets for dogs with chronic enteropathies

OBJECTIVE

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in the management of canine chronic enteropathies (CCEs). Dog owners may elect to feed home-cooked diets (HCDs) rather than veterinary commercially prepared diets (CPDs) because of perceived lower costs. There is a paucity of data comparing costs of these options. We hypothesize there will be differences in costs between complete and balanced HCDs and nutritionally comparable CPDs.

SAMPLE

6 Home-cooked diets.

PROCEDURES

Six HCD recipes (2 highly digestible, 2 limited antigen, 2 low-fat) were formulated by 2 board-certified veterinary nutritionists to mimic the nutritional and ingredient profiles of veterinary CPDs for management of CCEs. The cost (in US$ on a per 100 kilocalorie [kcal] basis) of each recipe was determined via collection of ingredient prices from 3 grocery stores combined with supplement prices from online retailers. Prices of CPDs were obtained from a national online retailer. Maintenance energy requirements of 1.6 X (70 X BWkg0.75), where BWkg represents body weight in kilograms, were calculated for 3 dog sizes (5, 20, and 40 kg), and costs of feeding maintenance energy requirements with HCDs versus dry and canned CPDs were compared with a Kruskal-Wallis test and post hoc testing.

RESULTS

The median costs of all dry and canned CPDs and HCDs were $0.29 (range, $0.18 to $0.46), $1.01 (range, $0.77 to $1.20), and $0.55 (range, $0.35 to $1.14), respectively. Feeding complete and balanced HCDs cost more than feeding dry CPDs (P < .001), but not canned CPDs (P > .99).

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Dry CPDs cost the least for nutritional management of CCEs. There is a wide range of costs for both CPDs and HCDs.

Estimation of percent body surface area in cats with use of computed tomography

OBJECTIVE

To establish a baseline reference and create a user-friendly chart for normal body surface area (BSA) in the adult domestic cat similar to the "Rule of Nines" chart.

DESIGN

Prospective cadaveric study.

SETTING

University Teaching Hospital.

ANIMALS

Seven adult domestic short-haired feline cadavers of normal body condition (4-6/9) and body weight.

INTERVENTION

Individual whole-body computed tomography (CT) scan was performed on all cats. Images were analyzed with 3-dimensional technology to measure the BSA. A chart was created, illustrating the individual surface area of each body part.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Obtained measurements of the cats are different from surface areas of people and dogs. Percentage of total BSA for cats was as follows: head 13%, neck 5%, thorax 20%, abdomen 15%, pelvis and tail 9%, front legs 7% each, and pelvic legs 12% each.

CONCLUSION

The distribution of BSA between body parts is different in cats compared to dogs and people. A species-specific chart was created to assure a more accurate estimation of BSA in cats.

From Nutritional Adequacy to Hygiene Quality: A Detailed Assessment of Commercial Raw Pet-Food for Dogs and Cats

Raw meat-based diets (RMBDs) are widely used as unconventional diets for dogs and cats at different life stages, despite concerns regarding nutritional adequacy and microbial contamination. The aim of this study was to evaluate both the nutritional and hygiene quality profile of RMBDs purchased in Germany. For this purpose, crude nutrients were assessed in 44 RMBDs and compared to declared values. In addition, selected minerals were determined in 31 RMBDs labelled as complete and compared to the minimum requirement (MR) for intended species and life stages. Aerobic colony count (ACC) and Enterobacteriaceae were used to assess the hygiene quality of 37 commercial RMBDs, while the presence of Salmonella spp. was examined in 10 products. Fat and protein content exceeded tolerated deviation from declared values in 33% and 45% of RMBDs, respectively. Each RMBD showed at least one concern regarding nutrient content. The RMBDs had high fat contents (mean 69, range 33−95 g/Mcal) that were negatively correlated with protein (r = −0.74, p < 0.0001). Considerable contaminations by ACC and Enterobacteriaceae were found (2.61 × 108 ± 3.63 × 108 and 3.61 × 106 ± 8.39 x106 CFU/g, respectively). A higher count of Enterobacteriaceae was detected in a frozen RMBDs made of poultry or carcasses from different animals, compared to the thawed counterpart (p = 0.003), as well as compared to other sources, such as beef, horse, and lamb, regardless of the storage condition. Salmonella spp. were found in 2/10 RMBDs. This study confirmed that feeding commercial RMBDs might pose a risk to pet health.

Impact of Obesity on Lung Function in Cats with Bronchoconstriction

Obesity is a nutritional disorder commonly diagnosed in adult cats that has been associated with an increased risk of different chronic diseases including respiratory diseases. The main objective of this study is to define if there is a relation between lung function measured by barometric whole-body plethysmography and obesity in cats with bronchoconstriction. Fifty-three cats were included in the study. All animals presented a bronchoconstriction status diagnosed with an Enhanced Pause (Penh) value higher than the reference range. Based on a standardized 9-point body condition scale, 36 cats were normal-weight cats (with BCS < 6), and 17 cats were considered overweight or obese cats (with BCS ≥ 6). Overweight cats were mainly male cats and older, and presented lower tidal volume values, lower minute volume values, and lower peak inspiratory and expiratory flows than normal-weight cats. According to the results of the present study, overweight cats showed a more compromised lung function parameters related to restrictive pattern compared with normal-weight cats. However, overweight cats did not show a higher bronchoconstriction level compared with normal-weight cats.

Veterinary professionals’ weight-related communication when discussing an overweight or obese pet with a client

OBJECTIVE

Pet weight may be difficult for veterinary professionals to address with clients, particularly when pets are overweight or obese. The objective of this study was to characterize the communication processes and content of weight-related conversations occurring between veterinary professionals and clients.

SAMPLE

Audio-video recordings of 917 veterinarian-client-patient interactions involving a random sample of 60 veterinarians and a convenience sample of clients.

PROCEDURES

Companion animal veterinarians in southern Ontario, Canada, were randomly recruited, and interactions with their clients were audio-video recorded. Interactions were reviewed for mentions of weight, then further analyzed by means of a researcher-generated coding framework to provide a comprehensive assessment of communication specific to weight-related interactions.

RESULTS

463 of 917 (50.5%) veterinary-client-patient interactions contained an exchange involving the mention of a single patient’s (dog or cat) weight and were included in final analysis. Of the 463 interactions, 150 (32.4%) involved a discussion of obesity for a single patient. Of these, 43.3% (65/150) included a weight management recommendation from the veterinary team, and 28% (42/150) provided clients with a reason for pursuing weight management.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Findings illustrate opportunities to optimize obesity communication to improve the health and wellbeing of veterinary patients.

Effects of the Protein Concentration and Quality in a Canned Diet on the Fecal Microbiota of Healthy Adult Cats

Feline diets can markedly differ in their protein concentration and quality, which might also affect the intestinal microbiota of cats. In the present study, 6 canned diets, differing in their protein quality (high/low, achieved by varying amounts of meat and collagen-rich ingredients) and concentration (high quality/low quality: 36.2/36.7% in dry matter (DM), 43.3/45.0% in DM and 54.9/56.1% in DM), were fed to 10 healthy adult cats for 6 weeks each. At the end of the feeding periods, fecal samples were collected to analyze the microbiota (16S rDNA sequencing) and bacterial metabolites. Increasing dietary protein concentrations increased the relative abundance of Fusobacterium and Bacteroides as well as the concentrations of ammonium and n-valerate in the feces of the cats, independently of the dietary protein quality. A lower dietary protein quality was accompanied by a higher evenness index and a higher relative abundance of Fusobacteria and Bacteroidetes in the feces when compared to the feeding of the high protein quality diets. A promotion of bacterial proteolytic activity and, in particular, increased intestinal ammonium concentrations might be undesired effects of high protein intakes in cats. Whether the long-term feeding of those diets could be critical for feline health requires further investigation.

Mild to moderate overweight in dogs: is there an impact on routine hematological and biochemical profiles, echocardiographic parameters and cardiac autonomic modulation?

Obesity is considered the most common nutritional disease of dogs. Even though overt obesity is more likely to impair health, even moderately overweight dogs are at greater risk for requiring medication for chronic health problems earlier in life. Although the number of overweight dogs far exceeds the number of obese ones, most of the studies published so far focused on derangements in a mixed overweight/obese population (Body condition score - BCS ≥7/9) rather than in separated groups. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of mild to moderate obesity on routine hematological and biochemical profile and cardiovascular parameters in dogs. Nine healthy lean (BCS =4-5/9) and 24 overweight dogs (BCS = 6-7/9) were enrolled. Complete blood count, serum biochemistry analyses, echocardiographic parameters, and cardiac autonomic function by heart rate variability (HRV) were determined. In our study population, although total protein, globulin and phosphorus concentrations were increased in overweight compared to lean dogs, all complete blood count and biochemical parameters were within reference ranges for both groups. Parameters usually increased in obese dogs, like triglycerides and cholesterol concentrations, were within reference ranges in our overweight population. There were no significant changes in echocardiographic parameters, but HRV had a significant decrease in high frequency (HF) power (P = 0.02), suggesting a depression in parasympathetic activity. Our findings show that mild to moderate overweight dogs do not show the hematological and echocardiographic alterations already reported for mixed overweight/obese populations but might have impaired cardiac autonomic modulation. Although not enough to make conclusions, our data raise the question of whether research studies should place overweight and obese dogs in the same category.