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Oba PM, De La Guardia Hidrogo VM, Kelly J, Saunders-Blades J, Steelman AJ, Swanson KS. Effects of diets supplemented with bioactive peptides on nutrient digestibility, immune cell responsiveness, and fecal characteristics, microbiota, and metabolites of adult cats. J Anim Sci 2024; 102:skae104. [PMID: 38587063 PMCID: PMC11067789 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skae104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Bioactive peptides (BP) are recognized for their ability to function as antioxidants and maintain lipid stability. They may have positive health effects, including antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, osteoprotective, gut health, and immunomodulatory properties, but are poorly tested in cats. Our primary objective was to determine the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of BP-containing kibble diets and assess how the fecal characteristics, metabolites, and microbiota were affected in adult cats. Our secondary objective was to test whether BP could impact blood oxidative stress markers and cytokine concentrations following transport stress. Twelve adult cats (4.83 ± 0.37 yr; 4.76 ± 0.14 kg) were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design to test four extruded kibble diets: Control (no BP), Chicken (4% chicken BP), Marine1 (2% marine BP), and Marine2 (4% marine BP). Each experimental period lasted 28 d, with a 20-d adaptation phase, 5 d for fecal collection, 2 d for blood collection, and 1 d for transport stress testing (driven in vehicle in individual carriers for 45 min). Salivary cortisol and blood oxidative stress markers and cytokines were measured after transport. Fecal microbiota data were evaluated using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and QIIME2. All other data were analyzed using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS, with P < 0.05 being considered significant and P < 0.10 considered trends. No differences were observed in animal health outcomes, with all cats remaining healthy and serum metabolites remaining within reference ranges. Cats fed the Marine2 diet had higher (P < 0.05) ATTD of dry matter (84.5% vs. 80.9%) and organic matter (88.3% vs. 85.8%) than those fed the control diet. The ATTD of protein and energy tended to be higher (P < 0.10) for cats fed the Marine2 diet. Fecal characteristics, metabolites, and bacterial alpha and beta diversity measures were not affected by treatment. However, the relative abundances of six bacterial genera were different (P < 0.05) and two bacterial genera tended to be different (P < 0.10) across treatments. Treatment did not alter salivary cortisol, blood oxidative stress markers, or blood cytokines after transport stress. Our data suggest that BP inclusion may increase nutrient digestibility and modify fecal microbiota and immune measures. More testing is required, however, to determine whether BP may provide additional benefits to cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia M Oba
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | | | - Janelle Kelly
- Champion Petfoods Holding, Inc., Edmonton, AB T5S 2W6, Canada
| | | | - Andrew J Steelman
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Kelly S Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Morrow S, Zhang K, Abood SK, Verbrugghe A. Website Investigation of Pet Weight Management-Related Information and Services Offered by Ontario Veterinary Practices. Vet Sci 2023; 10:674. [PMID: 38133225 PMCID: PMC10747973 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10120674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Adronie Verbrugghe
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (S.M.); (K.Z.); (S.K.A.)
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Rankovic A, Verton-Shaw S, Shoveller AK, Bakovic M, Kirby G, Verbrugghe A. Dietary choline, but not L-carnitine, increases circulating lipid and lipoprotein concentrations, without affecting body composition, energy expenditure or respiratory quotient in lean and obese male cats during weight maintenance. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1198175. [PMID: 37565085 PMCID: PMC10410278 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1198175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Due to the involvement in one-carbon metabolism and lipid mobilization, choline and L-carnitine supplementation have been recommended to minimize hepatic lipid accumulation and support fat oxidation, respectively. This study investigated the lipotropic benefits of choline or L-carnitine supplementation in lean and obese cats maintaining body weight (BW). Methods Lean [n = 9; body condition score (BCS): 4-5/9] and obese (n = 9; BCS: 8-9/9) adult male neutered colony cats were used in a replicated 3 x 3 complete Latin square design. Treatments included choline (378 mg/kg BW0.67), L-carnitine (200 mg/kg BW) and control (no supplement). Treatments were supplemented to the food for 6 weeks each, with a 2-week washout between treatments. Cats were fed once daily to maintenance energy requirements, and BW and BCS were assessed weekly. Fasted blood collection, indirect calorimetry, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry occurred at the end of each treatment period. Serum was analyzed for cholesterol (CHOL), high-density lipoprotein CHOL (HDL-C), triglycerides (TAG), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), glucose, creatinine (CREAT), urea, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Very low-density lipoprotein CHOL (VLDL) and low-density lipoprotein CHOL (LDL-C) were calculated. Data were analyzed using proc GLIMMIX, with group and period as random effects, and treatment, body condition, and their interaction as fixed effects, followed by a Tukey's post-hoc test when significance occurred. Results Cats supplemented choline had lower food intake (P = 0.025). Treatment did not change BW, BCS and body composition (P > 0.05). Obese cats had greater ALP, TAG, and VLDL, and lower HDL-C compared to lean cats (P < 0.05). Choline resulted in greater CHOL, HDL-C, LDL-C and ALT (P < 0.05). L-carnitine resulted in lower CREAT (P = 0.010). Following the post-hoc test, differences between treatment means were not present for ALP (P = 0.042). No differences were found for glucose, urea or NEFA (P > 0.05). Obese cats had a lower fed respiratory quotient (RQ), regardless of treatment (P = 0.045). Treatment did not affect fed or fasted RQ and energy expenditure (P > 0.05). Discussion Choline appeared to increase circulating lipid and lipoprotein concentrations regardless of body condition, likely through enhanced lipid mobilization and hepatic elimination. Neither dietary choline or L-carnitine altered body composition or energy metabolism in the lean or obese cats, as compared to control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Rankovic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Shoshana Verton-Shaw
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Anna K. Shoveller
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Marica Bakovic
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Gordon Kirby
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Adronie Verbrugghe
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Oba PM, Utterback PL, Longshaw M, Parsons CM, Swanson KS. Comparing the standardized amino acid digestibility of an alternative protein source with commercially available protein-based ingredients using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skad236. [PMID: 37422915 PMCID: PMC10393201 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Using single-cell-based proteins in pet foods is of interest, but little testing has been done. Therefore, our objective was to determine the amino acid (AA) digestibilities, assess protein quality of a novel microbial protein (MP) (FeedKind), and compare it with other protein-based ingredients using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. Test ingredients included: MP, chicken meal (CM), corn gluten meal (CGM), pea protein (PP), and black soldier fly larvae. Thirty cecectomized roosters (n = 6/ingredient) were randomly assigned to test ingredients. After 24 h of feed withdrawal, roosters were tube-fed 15 g test ingredient and 15 g corn, and then excreta were collected for 48 h. Endogenous AA corrections were made using additional roosters. Digestible indispensable AA score (DIAAS)-like values were calculated to determine protein quality according to Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), The European Pet Food Industry Federation, and National Research Council reference values for growing and adult dogs and cats. Data were analyzed using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS 9.4, with P ≤ 0.05 being significant. All reactive lysine:total lysine ratios, an indicator of heat damage, were higher than 0.9, except for CM (0.86). Digestibility of indispensable and dispensable AA were >85% and >80% for MP, respectively, with indispensable AA digestibilities being >80% for all other ingredients. In general, CGM had the highest, while CM had the lowest AA digestibilities. Two exceptions were lysine and tryptophan. Lysine digestibility for MP was higher than that of all other ingredients, while tryptophan digestibility for MP was higher than that of CM, CGM, and PP. Threonine digestibility was highest for CGM and MP. Valine digestibility was highest for CGM, PP, and MP. DIAAS-like calculations identified limiting AA of each ingredient and depended on the reference used and life stage and species of animal. Using AAFCO guidelines, all DIAAS-like values for MP were >100 suggesting that it could be used as the sole source of protein in adult dog and cat diets; only methionine had DIAAS-like values <100 for growing kittens. For dogs, limiting AA was most commonly methionine, threonine, and tryptophan in the other protein sources. For cats, limiting AA was most commonly lysine and methionine. Lysine was severely limited in CGM across all life stages considered. Further research in dogs and cats is necessary, but our data suggest that the MP tested has high AA digestibilities and is a high-quality protein source that may be useful in pet foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia M Oba
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801USA
| | - Pamela L Utterback
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801USA
| | - Matt Longshaw
- Calysta (UK) Ltd., The Wilton Centre, Redcar, Cleveland, TS10 4RF, UK
| | - Carl M Parsons
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801USA
| | - Kelly S Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Smola MA, Oba PM, Utterback PL, Sánchez-Sánchez L, Parsons CM, Swanson KS. Amino acid digestibility and protein quality of mealworm-based ingredients using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skad012. [PMID: 36617258 PMCID: PMC9951253 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Mealworms may serve as an alternative protein source for pet foods because of their high protein content and low environmental footprint. The amino acid (AA) content and protein quality of mealworm-based ingredients may vary depending on their composition and processing, however, so testing is required. Our objective was to measure the AA composition, AA digestibility, and protein quality of mealworm-based ingredients using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. The University of Illinois Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee approved all animal procedures prior to experimentation. Sixteen cecectomized roosters (4 roosters per substrate) were randomly allotted to one of four test substrates: 1) whole lesser mealworm (A. diaperinus) meal (ADw); 2) defatted lesser mealworm (A. diaperinus) meal (ADd); 3) defatted yellow mealworm (T. molitor) meal (TMd); and 4) hydrolyzed T. molitor protein meal (TMh). Ingredients were provided by Ÿnsect, France. After 26 h of feed withdrawal, roosters were tube-fed test substrates. Following crop intubation, excreta samples were collected for 48 h. Endogenous loss corrections for AA were made by using five additional cecectomized roosters. All data were analyzed using SAS version 9.4. All substrates had high AA digestibilities, with all indispensable AA digestibilities being >90% with the exception of histidine (87.9% to 91.1%) and valine (77.9% to 79.7%). Amino acid digestibilities were not different among substrates (P > 0.05). Digestible indispensable AA score (DIAAS)-like values were calculated to determine protein quality according to Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutrient profiles, The European Pet Food Industry Nutritional Guidelines (FEDIAF) nutritional guidelines, National Research Council (NRC) recommended allowances for adult dogs, adult cats, growing puppies, and growing kittens, and NRC minimal requirements for growing puppies and growing kittens. In general, TMh had the highest and TMd had the lowest DIAAS-like values for most indispensable AA. Methionine (TMh; TMd; ADw) and phenylalanine (ADd) were the first-limiting AA. Our results demonstrate that mealworm-based ingredients are high-quality protein sources. Further research in dogs and cats is necessary to confirm sufficient palatability and digestibility, but these data suggest that they are valuable sources of protein for pet foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith A Smola
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Patricia M Oba
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Pamela L Utterback
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | | | - Carl M Parsons
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Kelly S Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Opetz DL, Oba PM, Swanson KS. Effects of overfeeding on the digestive efficiency, voluntary physical activity levels, and fecal characteristics and microbiota of adult cats. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skad338. [PMID: 37772600 PMCID: PMC10590176 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle L Opetz
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Patricia M Oba
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Kelly S Swanson
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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Opetz DL, Oba PM, Kostiuk D, Kelly J, Swanson KS. Effects of weight loss and feeding specially formulated diets on the body composition, blood metabolite profiles, voluntary physical activity, and fecal metabolites and microbiota of overweight cats. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skad332. [PMID: 37773637 PMCID: PMC10601921 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline obesity is a common and preventable disease, posing a myriad of health risks and detriments. Specially formulated diets and restricted feeding may serve as an intervention strategy to promote weight loss and improve feline health. In this study, our objective was to determine the effects of restricted feeding and weight loss on body composition, voluntary physical activity, blood hormones and metabolites, and fecal microbiota of overweight cats. Twenty-two overweight adult spayed female and neutered male cats [body weight (BW) = 5.70 ± 1.0 kg; body condition score (BCS) = 7.68 ± 0.6; age = 4 ± 0.4 yr] were used in a weight loss study. A control diet (OR) was fed during a 4-wk baseline to identify intake needed to maintain BW. After baseline (week 0), cats were allotted to OR or a test diet (FT) and fed to lose ~1.0% BW/wk for 24 wk. At baseline and 6, 12, 18, and 24 wk after weight loss, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scans were performed and blood samples were collected. Voluntary physical activity was measured at weeks 0, 8, 16, and 24. Fecal samples were collected at weeks 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24. Change from baseline data were analyzed statistically using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS, with P < 0.05 considered significant. Restricted feeding of both diets led to weight and fat mass loss, lower BCS, and lower blood triglyceride and leptin concentrations. Cats fed the FT diet had a greater reduction in blood triglycerides and cholesterol than cats fed the OR diet. Restricted feeding and weight loss reduced fecal short-chain fatty acid, branched-chain fatty acid, phenol, and indole concentrations. Fecal valerate concentrations were affected by diet, with cats fed the OR diet having a greater reduction than those fed the FT diet. Fecal bacterial alpha diversity was not affected, but fecal bacterial beta diversity analysis showed clustering by diet. Restricted feeding and weight loss affected relative abundances of 7 fecal bacterial genera, while dietary intervention affected change from baseline relative abundances of 2 fecal bacterial phyla and 20 fecal bacterial genera. Our data demonstrate that restricted feeding promoted controlled and safe weight and fat loss, reduced blood lipids and leptin concentrations, and shifted fecal metabolites and microbiota. Some changes were also impacted by diet, highlighting the importance of ingredient and nutrient composition in weight loss diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle L Opetz
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Patricia M Oba
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Darcia Kostiuk
- Champion Petfoods Holding, Inc., Edmonton, CanadaAB T5S 2W6
| | - Janelle Kelly
- Champion Petfoods Holding, Inc., Edmonton, CanadaAB T5S 2W6
| | - Kelly S Swanson
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Rankovic A, Godfrey H, Grant CE, Shoveller AK, Bakovic M, Kirby G, Verbrugghe A. Dose-response relationship between dietary choline and serum lipid profile, energy expenditure and respiratory quotient in overweight adult cats fed at maintenance energy requirements. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6596195. [PMID: 35641141 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Choline is an essential nutrient linked to hepatic lipid metabolism in many animal species, including cats. The current study investigated the serum lipid profiles, serum liver enzymes, respiratory quotients and energy expenditures of overweight cats fed maintenance diets, in response to graded doses of supplemental dietary choline. Overweight (body condition score [BCS]:≥6/9) adult male neutered cats (n=14) were supplemented with five choline chloride doses for three-week periods, in a 5 x 5 Latin square design. Doses were based on individual body weight (BW) and the daily recommended allowance (RA) for choline (63mg/kg BW 0.67) according to the National Research Council. Doses were: control (no additional choline: 1.2 x RA, 77 mg/kg BW 0.67), 2 x RA (126mg/kg BW 0.67), 4 x RA (252mg/kg BW 0.67), 6 x RA (378mg/kg BW 0.67), and 8 x RA (504mg/kg BW 0.67). Choline was top-dressed over the commercial extruded cat food (3620mg choline/kg diet), fed once a day at maintenance energy requirements (130kcal/kgBW 0.4). Body weight and BCS were assessed weekly. Fasted blood samples were taken and indirect calorimetry was performed at the end of each three-week period. Serum was analyzed for cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides, non-esterified fatty acids, glucose, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alanine aminotransferase. Very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were calculated. Data was analyzed via SAS using proc GLIMMIX, with group and period as the random effects, and treatment as the fixed effect. Statistical significance was considered at P < 0.05. Body weight and BCS did not change (P > 0.05). Serum cholesterol, HDL-C, triglycerides, and VLDL increased with 6 x RA (P < 0.05). Serum ALP decreased with 8 x RA (P = 0.004). Choline at 4 x and 6 x RA decreased serum BUN (P = 0.006). Fed or fasted respiratory quotient and energy expenditure did not differ among dietary choline doses (P > 0.05). These results suggest that dietary choline supplementation at 6 x RA may increase hepatic fat mobilization through increased lipoprotein transport, and beneficially support hepatic health in overweight cats. Future studies that combine these results with existing knowledge of feline weight loss and hepatic lipidosis are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Rankovic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, CANADA
| | - Hannah Godfrey
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, CANADA
| | - Caitlin E Grant
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, CANADA
| | - Anna K Shoveller
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, CANADA
| | - Marica Bakovic
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, CANADA
| | - Gordon Kirby
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, CANADA
| | - Adronie Verbrugghe
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, CANADA
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Iwazaki E, Lee AH, Kruis AM, Phungviwatnikul T, Valentine H, Arend LS, Knox RV, de Godoy MRC, Swanson KS. Effects of a high-protein, high-fiber diet rich in antioxidants and L-carnitine on body weight, body composition, metabolic status, and physical activity levels of cats after spay surgery. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6562661. [PMID: 35365999 PMCID: PMC9047173 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spay and neuter surgeries are useful in controlling pet populations, but increase obesity risk due to increased appetite, decreased metabolic rate and decreased energy expenditure. Dietary management may help limit post-spay weight gain, but few research studies have been conducted in cats. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a high-protein, high-fiber diet (HPHF) compared to a moderate-protein, moderate-fiber diet (MPMF) in female cats following spay surgery. Twenty healthy female cats (9.5±0.1 mo) were used. After a 4-wk baseline phase with cats fed MPMF to maintain body weight (BW), 16 cats were spayed and allotted to MPMF (n=8) or HPHF (n=8), with the remaining cats being sham-operated and fed MPMF (n=4). Cats were fed to maintain BW for 12 wk, then allowed to eat up to twice that amount for another 12 wk. Daily food intake, twice weekly BW and twice weekly body condition scores (BCS) were assessed. Back fat thickness (BF) using ultrasound, body composition using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), feline body mass index (fBMI), body fat percentage estimates using zoometry measurements, serum metabolites, and voluntary physical activity levels were measured prior to spay (wk 0) and every 6 wk post-spay. A treatment*time effect was observed for food intake (g/d), but not caloric intake (kcal ME/d). Caloric intake was affected by time and treatment, being reduced over the first 12 wk and reduced at higher amounts in HPHF and MPMF cats vs. sham cats. BW, BCS and body fat percentage were affected over time. Treatment*time effects were observed for blood urea nitrogen, alkaline phosphatase, and fructosamine, while blood triglycerides, total cholesterol, creatinine, total protein, phosphorus, and bicarbonate were affected by time. Physical activity was reduced over time. Our results demonstrate that spay surgery affects food intake, BW, metabolism, and physical activity of cats. Dietary intervention in this study, however, led to minor changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Iwazaki
- Nippon Pet Food Co. Ltd, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Animal Sciences; University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Anne H Lee
- Department of Animal Sciences; University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Alissa M Kruis
- Department of Animal Sciences; University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - Helen Valentine
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Lídia S Arend
- Department of Animal Sciences; University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Robert V Knox
- Department of Animal Sciences; University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Maria R C de Godoy
- Department of Animal Sciences; University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA.,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL USA
| | - Kelly S Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences; University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA.,Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA.,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL USA
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10
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Do S, Koutsos EA, McComb A, Phungviwatnikul T, de Godoy MRC, Swanson KS. Palatability and apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility of retorted black soldier fly larvae-containing diets and their effects on the fecal characteristics of cats consuming them. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6542851. [PMID: 35246679 PMCID: PMC9036390 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a growing interest in using black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) due to its supposed sustainability and nutritional qualities. Because little research has been conducted to evaluate the use of BSFL in cats, our objective was to determine the palatability and apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility (ATTD) of BSFL-containing canned diets and the fecal characteristics of healthy adult cats consuming them. First, three palatability tests were conducted to compare the following diets: 1) diet with poultry byproduct meal (PBPM) and chicken serving as the primary protein sources (control) vs. diet with BSFL meal replacing PBPM (BSFL meal); 2) control vs. diet with whole BSFL replacing some PBPM and poultry fat (BSFL whole); and 3) control vs. diet with BSFL oil replacing poultry fat (BSFL oil). All diets were formulated to meet Association of American Feed Control Officials nutrient profiles for adult cats and were produced using a still retort. A paired t-test was conducted to analyze data from each palatability test, with a higher (P < 0.05) consumption ratio being observed for BSFL meal (1.93:1), BSFL whole (2.03:1), and BSFL oil (1.57:1). Second, 32 adult cats (20 females and 12 males; BW: 4.19 ± 0.55 kg; age: 3.3 ± 0.38 yr) were used in a completely randomized design study composed of a 21-d baseline period and a 70-d experimental period. Cats consumed the control diet during the baseline and were then allotted to one of four experimental diets (n = 8 per group): 1) control, 2) BSFL meal, 3) whole BSFL, and 4) BSFL oil. Fecal samples were collected after baseline and experimental periods for ATTD and fecal characteristic analysis. Fecal output was higher (P < 0.05) and fecal dry matter percentage was lower (P < 0.05) in cats fed BSFL meal than those fed BSFL oil. Organic matter, crude protein (CP), and energy ATTD were lower (P < 0.05) in cats fed BSFL meal than those fed BSFL oil or control. CP and energy ATTD were lower (P < 0.05) in cats fed BSFL whole than those fed BSFL oil. A few serum metabolites were affected by diet (P < 0.05) but remained within reference ranges. Hematology was not affected by diet (P > 0.05). Overall, our results suggest that BSFL-containing diets are palatable and do not negatively affect fecal characteristics or serum chemistry but may have slightly lower nutrient digestibilities in adult cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungho Do
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | | | | | | | - Maria R C de Godoy
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Kelly S Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA,Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA,Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL 61801, USA,Corresponding author:
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11
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Vecchiato CG, Delsante C, Galiazzo G, Perfetti S, Pinna C, Sabetti MC, Zagnoli L, Biagi G, Pietra M. Case Report: A Case Series Linked to Vitamin D Excess in Pet Food: Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) Toxicity Observed in Five Cats. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:707741. [PMID: 34490396 PMCID: PMC8416511 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.707741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) toxicity caused by defective pet food formulations is a rare occurrence described in cats. Nevertheless, it poses a health risk, even though the affected pet food is not fed as the sole diet. Excessive vitamin D3 intake might cause hypercalcemia and soft tissue mineralization, which are findings that prompt clinicians to further investigate the feasible etiology. This case series describes the effects of an extremely high vitamin D3 intake in five young cats caused by the consumption of a fish-based complementary kitten pet food (KPF) that was fed to all of the cats as part of their diet (cases 1, 2, and 3) or eaten exclusively (cases 4 and 5). Due to the different amounts of vitamin D3 consumed, diagnostic examinations showed different degrees of severity of hypercalcemia and azotemia as well as different radiographic findings in cases where diagnostic imaging was performed (cases 2, 4, and 5). All of the cats were treated by withdrawing the affected food and providing medical management of the hypercalcemia. All of the cats recovered, except for two persistent azotemic cats, which developed chronic kidney disease. The goal of this case series is, therefore, to describe the occurrence and resolution of an acute vitamin D3 toxicity due to the highest amount of dietary vitamin D3 intake that has ever been described in domestic cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla G Vecchiato
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Costanza Delsante
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Giorgia Galiazzo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Simone Perfetti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Carlo Pinna
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Maria C Sabetti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Laura Zagnoli
- Clinica Veterinaria dell' Orologio - AniCura, Sasso Marconi, Italy
| | - Giacomo Biagi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Marco Pietra
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
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12
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Dodd SAS, Shoveller AK, Fascetti AJ, Yu ZZ, Ma DWL, Verbrugghe A. A Comparison of Key Essential Nutrients in Commercial Plant-Based Pet Foods Sold in Canada to American and European Canine and Feline Dietary Recommendations. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082348. [PMID: 34438805 PMCID: PMC8388700 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Plant-based pet foods appear to be growing in popularity, but it is unclear how suitable these products are for dogs and cats, considering both species naturally consume diets rich in, or exclusively comprised of, animal tissues. Laboratory analyses of essential nutrients were performed on 26 plant-based diets available in Ontario, Canada in 2018, including 18 canine products (13 products labelled for adult maintenance, four for all life stages, one for puppy growth), 5 feline products (two for adult maintenance and three for all life stages), and 3 products labelled for both dogs and cats (one for adult maintenance and two for all life stages). The nutrient measurements were compared to industry standard nutrient profiles. Four products met the recommendations of the Association of American Feed Control Officials and one product the nutrient recommendations of the European Pet Food Industry Federation for adult dogs. No diets met recommended nutrient content for adult cats or growing puppies or kittens. Nutrients most commonly found to be insufficient were: sulfur amino acids, taurine, arachidonic acid, EPA and DHA, calcium phosphorus and vitamin D. These nutrients are all typically found in animal tissues, though non-animal sources are available, and require careful formulation or supplementation in products made without animal-derived ingredients. Compliance with Canadian labelling regulation and guidelines was poor. These problems do not appear to be exclusive to plant-based foods and have been demonstrated previously in commercially available animal-based products as well. This study demonstrates areas where manufacturers of plant-based pet foods must improve formulation and/or manufacturing practices to produce products appropriate for feeding cats and dogs. Abstract Plant-based foods intended for feeding dogs and cats are available in Canada, though few studies have examined the suitability of plant-based foods for dogs and cats. All commercial plant-based extruded and wet pet food products available in Ontario, Canada, in 2018 (n = 26) were acquired and analysed for energy, crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, ash, amino acids, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins A, B12, D2 and D3. Results were compared with recommendations of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). Thirteen products were labelled for adult canine maintenance, four for canine all life stages, one for puppy growth, two for adult feline maintenance, three for feline all life stages, one for adult maintenance of dogs and cats and two for all life stages of dogs and cats. Four products met AAFCO and one product met FEDIAF nutrient recommendations for canine maintenance. No diets met AAFCO or FEDIAF recommendations for feline maintenance or growth for either species. Nutrients most commonly found insufficient were: sulfur amino acids, taurine, arachidonic acid, EPA and DHA, calcium phosphorus and vitamin D. There were no nutrients unable to be provided from non-animal sources. Compliance with labelling guidelines was also poor, similar to other findings with commercial animal-based pet products. The results from this study indicate areas where producers of plant-based pet foods must improve to meet the industry recommended nutrient profiles and labelling requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. S. Dodd
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Anna K. Shoveller
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Andrea J. Fascetti
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (A.J.F.); (Z.Z.Y.)
| | - Zengshou Z. Yu
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (A.J.F.); (Z.Z.Y.)
| | - David W. L. Ma
- Department of Human Health and Nutrition Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Adronie Verbrugghe
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
- Correspondence:
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13
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Do S, Koutsos EA, Utterback PL, Parsons CM, de Godoy MRC, Swanson KS. Amino acid digestibility and digestible indispensable amino acid score-like values of black soldier fly larvae fed different forms and concentrations of calcium using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. J Anim Sci 2021; 99:skab124. [PMID: 33880561 PMCID: PMC8188813 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skab124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) are an alternative protein source for animals, including dogs and cats. Dietary calcium source is an essential nutrient for BSFL development in the pupal stage. Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and calcium chloride (CaCl2) are common calcium sources but differ in solubility, acid-binding capacity, and calcium concentration. A high calcium concentration in BSFL may affect how well nitrogen and amino acids (AA) are digested by animals consuming them, thereby affecting feed conversion efficiency. Our objective was to determine the effects of dietary calcium form and concentration on nutrient composition, AA digestibility, and digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS)-like values of BSFL intended for use in animal feeds using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. All BSFL tested in this study were harvested at 18 d after hatch. Industry standard rearing conditions were maintained and a commercial layer ration was fed to all BSFL until 11 d post-hatch. From day 11 to 18, BSFL were fed a combination of distiller's dried grains with solubles from a distillery, bakery byproduct meal, and varied calcium sources. All BSFL diets contained 0.2% calcium in the basal diet plus additional calcium in the following amounts and forms: BSFLA: 1.2% CaCl2, BSFLB: 1.2% CaCO3, BSFLC: 0.75% CaCO3, and BSFLD: 0.6% CaCO3 + 0.6% CaCl2. On day 18, BSFL were washed and frozen. Prior to the rooster assay, BSFL were lyophilized and ground. In total, 16 cecectomized roosters (4 roosters per substrate) were randomly assigned to test substrates. After 24 h of feed withdrawal, roosters were tube-fed 20 g of test substrates. Following crop intubation, excreta were collected for 48 h. Endogenous corrections for AA were made using five additional cecectomized roosters. All data were analyzed using a completely randomized design and the GLM procedure of SAS 9.4. Nutrient and AA digestibilities were not different among substrates. DIAAS-like values were calculated to determine protein quality according to the Association of American Feed Control Officials nutrient profiles and National Research Council recommended allowances for dogs and cats. Although AA digestibilities did not differ, those containing CaCO3 generally had higher DIAAS-like reference values than the diet containing CaCl2 alone (BSFLA). Aromatic AA (Phe + Tyr) and sulfur AA (Met + Cys) were often first-limiting AA. Our results suggest that calcium sources fed to BSFL did not affect AA digestibility and protein quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungho Do
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | | | - Pamela L Utterback
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Carl M Parsons
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Maria R C de Godoy
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Kelly S Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL 61801, USA
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14
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Dodd SAS, Grant C, Abood SK, Verbrugghe A. Case Report: Application and Limitations of a Plant-Based Diet Formulated for a Cat With Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:658265. [PMID: 33898549 PMCID: PMC8062804 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.658265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A 2-year-old male castrated domestic shorthair cat was presented for recommendations for dietary management of chronic FLUTD using a strictly plant-based diet as per the stipulations of the cat's owner. The cat had a history of urethral obstruction of unknown etiology, persistent marked struvite crystalluria, and persistent inappropriate elimination. Commercial plant-based products meeting the nutritional recommendations for maintenance of adult cats with the lowest concentration of struvite precursors were identified, but the cat would not eat them. At the request of the client, a homemade plant-based diet was formulated with the intention of increasing water intake and promoting acidic, dilute urine. Urine concentration was able to be decreased somewhat and struvite crystalluria resolved, but the urine remained more alkaline than intended. The cat clinically improved and no further FLUTD episodes were reported by the client.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A S Dodd
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Caitlin Grant
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah K Abood
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Adronie Verbrugghe
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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15
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Oba PM, Lee AH, Vidal S, Wyss R, Miao Y, Adesokan Y, Swanson KS. Effect of a novel animal milk oligosaccharide biosimilar on macronutrient digestibility and gastrointestinal tolerance, fecal metabolites, and fecal microbiota of healthy adult cats. J Anim Sci 2021; 99:skaa399. [PMID: 33320182 PMCID: PMC7799586 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
GNU100 is a novel animal milk oligosaccharide (AMO) biosimilar. In a recent in vitro fermentation study, GNU100 was shown to be fermentable by feline gastrointestinal microbiota and lead to increased short-chain fatty acid production. Our objectives herein were to evaluate the palatability, safety, and gastrointestinal tolerance of GNU100 in healthy adult cats. Exploratory end-points were measured to assess utility. In study 1, 20 adult cats were used to test the palatability of diets containing 0% or 1% GNU100. In study 2, 32 (mean age = 1.9 yr; mean body weight = 4.6 kg) male (n = 12) and female (n = 20) adult cats were used in a completely randomized design. After a 2-wk baseline, cats were assigned to one of the following treatment groups and fed for 26 wk: control (CT, no GNU100), low dose (LD, 0.5% GNU100), medium dose (MD, 1.0% GNU100), and high dose (HD, 1.5% GNU100). On weeks 2, 4, and 26, fresh fecal samples were collected for the measurement of stool quality and immune and inflammatory markers and on weeks 2 and 4 for microbiota and metabolites. On week 4, total feces were collected to measure apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility. On weeks 2, 4, and 26, blood samples were collected for serum chemistry, hematology, and inflammatory marker measurement. The palatability test showed that 1% GNU100 was strongly preferred (P < 0.05), with GNU100 having a 17.6:1 consumption ratio compared with control. In the long-term study, all cats remained healthy, without any signs of gastrointestinal intolerance or illness. All diets were well accepted, resulting in similar (P > 0.05) food intake, fecal characteristics, immunoglobulin A, and calprotectin, and dry matter, organic matter, fat, and crude protein digestibilities. Fecal butyrate was greater (P = 0.02) in cats fed HD than cats fed LD or MD. Fecal indole was lower (P = 0.02) in cats fed HD than cats fed LD. Cats fed CT had a higher (P = 0.003) relative abundance of Actinobacteria than cats fed LD. The relative abundance of Peptococcus was impacted by diet and time. At 4 wk, Campylobacter was lower in fecal samples of cats fed HD. Overall, the data suggest that dietary GNU100 supplementation was highly palatable, well tolerated, did not cause detrimental effects on fecal quality or nutrient digestibility, increased fecal butyrate concentrations, and reduced fecal indole concentrations, supporting the safety of GNU100 for inclusion in feline diets and suggesting potential benefits on gastrointestinal health of cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia M Oba
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Anne H Lee
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Sara Vidal
- Gnubiotics Sciences SA, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Romain Wyss
- Gnubiotics Sciences SA, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Yong Miao
- Gnubiotics Sciences SA, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | | | - Kelly S Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
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16
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Abstract
Feline obesity is a highly prevalent disease that poses an urgent and serious challenge. Attempted treatment by weight reduction is often unsuccessful; a new preventative approach that focuses on the role of the owner may be helpful. This study used data collected from an international survey of cat owners designed to assess owner personality and self-control, owner-pet attachment, feeding practices, and the cat's body condition. Owner-reported body condition scores (BCS) of cats were assessed using images adapted from a 5-point BCS system and categorized as a binary dependent variable: overweight/obese (BCS 4-5) and not overweight (BCS 1-3). Owner-reported BCS scores using a verbal BCS scale were also used as a binary dependent variable. Of the 6,835 respondents, 30.5% described their cat as overweight/obese using the visual BCS scale, and 32.5% using the verbal scale. Multivariable logistic regression models were built using stepwise-backward selection. A total of 8 variables were significant using the visual score as the dependent variable, while 11 variables were significant using the verbal score as the dependent variable (p < 0.05). Low owner conscientiousness was associated with an increased risk of feline overweight/obesity (OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.10-1.38), whereas preference for delayed reward was associated with a decreased risk (OR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.75-0.96). Contrary to expectation, indulgent (OR = 0.76, 95% CI 0.53-0.91) and inconsistent (OR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.76-0.93) feeding practices appeared protective. Other significant variables (p < 0.05) included cat-related factors (age, gender, housing, source) and management-related factors (dry diet, supermarket dry diet, raw diet, stealing, hunting, and measuring food with a scoop). A third multivariable analysis was performed, using results from cats classified as overweight/obese using both scoring methods, compared with cats classified as a healthy weight using both scoring methods. A total of 10 variables were found to be significant (p < 0.05). There was significant overlap of results from all three analyses. The results of this study indicate that feline obesity is a complex problem, with many contributing risk factors. It is essential to recognize the importance of owner characteristics, and that the prevention of obesity in cats may require the development of a range of interventional strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Wall
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Nick John Cave
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Emilie Vallee
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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17
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Abstract
Feline obesity is a highly prevalent disease that poses an urgent and serious challenge. Attempted treatment by weight reduction is often unsuccessful; a new preventative approach that focuses on the role of the owner may be helpful. This study used data collected from an international survey of cat owners designed to assess owner personality and self-control, owner-pet attachment, feeding practices, and the cat's body condition. Owner-reported body condition scores (BCS) of cats were assessed using images adapted from a 5-point BCS system and categorized as a binary dependent variable: overweight/obese (BCS 4-5) and not overweight (BCS 1-3). Owner-reported BCS scores using a verbal BCS scale were also used as a binary dependent variable. Of the 6,835 respondents, 30.5% described their cat as overweight/obese using the visual BCS scale, and 32.5% using the verbal scale. Multivariable logistic regression models were built using stepwise-backward selection. A total of 8 variables were significant using the visual score as the dependent variable, while 11 variables were significant using the verbal score as the dependent variable (p < 0.05). Low owner conscientiousness was associated with an increased risk of feline overweight/obesity (OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.10-1.38), whereas preference for delayed reward was associated with a decreased risk (OR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.75-0.96). Contrary to expectation, indulgent (OR = 0.76, 95% CI 0.53-0.91) and inconsistent (OR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.76-0.93) feeding practices appeared protective. Other significant variables (p < 0.05) included cat-related factors (age, gender, housing, source) and management-related factors (dry diet, supermarket dry diet, raw diet, stealing, hunting, and measuring food with a scoop). A third multivariable analysis was performed, using results from cats classified as overweight/obese using both scoring methods, compared with cats classified as a healthy weight using both scoring methods. A total of 10 variables were found to be significant (p < 0.05). There was significant overlap of results from all three analyses. The results of this study indicate that feline obesity is a complex problem, with many contributing risk factors. It is essential to recognize the importance of owner characteristics, and that the prevention of obesity in cats may require the development of a range of interventional strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Wall
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Nick John Cave
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Emilie Vallee
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Kerr KR, Kappen KL, Garner LM, Utterback PL, Parsons CM, Swanson KS. Commercially available avian and mammalian whole prey diet items targeted for consumption by managed exotic and domestic pet felines: true metabolizable energy and amino acid digestibility using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. J Anim Sci 2014; 92:4478-85. [PMID: 25149332 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2013-7246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Whole prey diets are commonly used in the zoo and home setting for captive exotic and domestic cats, respectively. Despite their increase in popularity, nutrient digestibility of such diets has been poorly studied. In this study, the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay was used to determine the protein quality and nitrogen-corrected true ME (TMEn) of 17 whole prey samples (mice [1 to 2 , 10 to 13 , 21 to 25 , 30 to 40 , and 150 to 180 d old], rats [1 to 4, 10 to 13, 21 to 25, 32 to 42, and >60 d old], rabbits [stillborn, 30 to 45 d old, and >65 d old], chicken [1 to 3 d old], and quail [1 to 3, 21 to 40, and >60 d old]) and 2 ground poultry-based products (chicken and duck). Amino acid score (AAS) and protein digestibility corrected AAS (PDCAAS) were calculated using the nutrient profile recommendations for domestic cat food as a reference value (AAFCO, 2012). Average individual indispensable AA (IAA) and total IAA (TIAA) digestibility coefficients were variable anddepended on AA (84 to 94% TIAA, 85 to 95% Arg, 87 to 96% His, 82 to 92% Ile, 84 to 94% Leu, 85 to 93% Lys, 89 to 97% Met, 83 to 94% Phe, 80 to 95% Thr, 84 to 94% Trp, and 80 to 93% Val) and sample. For a majority of the whole prey items, AA concentrations were greater than the Association of American Feed Control Officials ( AAFCO: , 2012) domestic cat nutrient profile recommendations for growth and reproduction and adult maintenance; however, some whole prey had AA concentrations below the AAFCO (2012) recommendations: Met + Cys (1.10% DM) in ground duck (1.06% DM) and taurine (Tau; 0.20% DM) in 30-to-45- and >65-d-old rabbits (0.01 and 0.10% DM, respectively), 150-to-180-d-old mice (0.18% DM), and ground duck (0.15% DM). The TMEn (3.76 to 6.44 kcal/g DM) expressed as the percent of GE (i.e., TMEn/GE) ranged from 66 to 85%, demonstrating how variable the digestibility of these items may be and justifying more research in this area. Both Met and Tau are commonly added to commercial pet foods, so supplements are readily available to address potential deficiencies and improve protein quality. A direct comparison of the ME of whole prey items by in vivo feline and rooster experiments is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Kerr
- Division of Nutritional Sciences Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
| | - K L Kappen
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
| | - L M Garner
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
| | - P L Utterback
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
| | - C M Parsons
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
| | - K S Swanson
- Division of Nutritional Sciences Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
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Kerr KR, Kappen KL, Garner LM, Swanson KS. Commercially available avian and mammalian whole prey diet items targeted for consumption by managed exotic and domestic pet felines: macronutrient, mineral, and long-chain fatty acid composition. Zoo Biol 2014; 33:327-35. [PMID: 25043384 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2013] [Revised: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Whole prey diets encourage species-typical behaviors making them popular in the zoo and home setting for captive exotic and domestic felids, respectively. We evaluated macronutrient, mineral, and long-chain fatty acid composition of 20 whole prey items: mice (1-2, 10-13, 21-25, 30-40, and 150-180 days of age); rats (1-4, 10-13, 21-25, 33-42, and >60 days of age); rabbits (still born, 30-45 days, >65 days with skin, and >65 days of age with skin removed); chicken (1-3 days of age, ground adult); duck (ground adult); and quail (1-3, 21-40, and >60 days of age). Composition of whole prey was highly variable (15-40% DM, 34-75% CP, 10-60% fat, and 8-18% ash). A majority of whole prey samples (15/20) had at least one mineral or fatty acid below AAFCO [] or NRC [] minimum recommended concentrations for domestic cats (K, Na, Cl, Mg, Cu, Mn, and/or Zn; total fat, linolenic acid, arachidonic acid and/or EPA and DHA). These data identify potential nutrient deficiencies allowing for alterations in dietary formulation prior to long-term feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R Kerr
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois; Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois
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