Nutrition

Cats currently are the most popular pet in America, and are considered a family member by many cat owners. Despite these facts, cats do not receive the veterinary care they need; in 2006, only 64% of cats (compared with 83% of dogs) visited a veterinarian (1).

During the last 150 years or so, spectacular advances have been made in the science of medicine. The discoveries of the principles of adequate sanitation and nutrition, and of antibiotics, vaccines, and other drugs have demonstrated the value of the scientific approach to health problems. As a result, most health care professional education now focuses on the scientific aspects of treatment of disease.

The goal of clinical nutrition is to sustain the nutritional health of the pets we care for without adversely affecting the quality of the bond between our clients and their pets. To do this we consider the signalment of the animal, the most suitable diet to recommend given the pets physiological state and (or) disease, and the most appropriate feeding strategy for both the pet and her owner.

Pets require a satisfactory diet to maintain normal structure and function at all stages of life. I define a satisfactory diet as one that is complete, balanced, palatable, digestible, and safe. Complete means that the diet provides adequate amounts of all required nutrients; balanced means that the nutrients are present in the proper proportions. Balance is crucial because excesses of some nutrients may cause deficiencies of others.

For joint supplements, the news isn't good. Despite the enthusiasm, and aggressive marketing, not only is compelling evidence for efficacy lacking, there is evidence against efficacy. For example, a recent study in humans1 concluded that, "Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate alone or in combination did not reduce pain effectively in the overall group of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Our ability to communicate with clients determines our success as clinicians and caregivers. This is because client adherence to our recommendations depends in part on the relationship we share. In medicine, as in life, improved interpersonal interactions between caregiver and patient lead to increased commitment and satisfaction for all concerned.

Obesity is the most common nutritional problem encountered in daily practice. Studies suggest that obesity may affect as many as 40% of dogs and 30% of cats in some practices.

In general, information about an animal's origin and natural history is often the basis for recommendations concerning dietary management of these animals in captivity. In captivity, whether in an aquarium, screened cage, or (inappropriately) loose in the house – reptiles and amphibians have specific ranges for temperature, humidity, and ventilation which are essential for optimal health. Maintenance of an animal outside of its optimal range is a physiological stress that often results in poor intake, digestion/absorption, and utilization of food.

The United States has a complex system for controlling chemical residues in meat poultry and egg products, with rigorous processes for approval, sampling and testing, and enforcement. Three principal agencies are involved in the control of residues in meat, poultry, and egg products.

Do you know what an obese pet looks like? Your clients don't! Learn how to accurately assess a pet's body condition score and raise clients' awareness of pet obesity while helping them reverse the growing trend.

Excess weight is the most common medical condition in companion animals and has a number of health and wellness implications for both pets and their owners.

Pairing interventions that benefit both the pet's and owners' health may be a valuable role for veterinarians.

In this study, dog owners presenting to a veterinary referral center are invited to participate.

2011 Nestlé Purina Veterinary Symposium on companion animal medicine: Table of Contents (Sponsored by Nestlé Purina)

Part of the 2011 Nestlé Purina Veterinary Symposium publication

Part of the 2011 Nestlé Purina Veterinary Symposium publication

Part of the 2011 Nestlé Purina Veterinary Symposium publication

Part of the 2011 Nestlé Purina Veterinary Symposium publication

Dundas, Ontario -- The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has crafted a set of global nutrition guidelines consistent with those released last year by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).

Clients have a lot of pet food products to choose from-and a lot of marketing jargon to decipher. It's up to you to help them find the right food for their pets.

Correct answer for Image Quiz: Ophthalmology-A dog with acute, excessive lacrimation

Veterinary nutritionist Dr. Joseph Bartges discusses the AAHA Nutrional Assessment Guidelines for Dogs and Cats.

A look at the effects of CKD and how proper nutrition can help.

Caffeine and sugar may get you through your day at the veterinary practice, but they won't get you to your happy place. Exercise your mind by exercising your body and your rights to healthy food.

What dietary intervention might improve a diabetic cat's chances of resolution?

How one veterinary clinic handles patients that aren't eating.

Getting a little perspective on this developing problem.

Proceedings for "Current concepts in the understanding of joint disease," a symposium by Iams.

About 50% of dogs in the United States between the ages of 5 and 10 years are overweight or obese.

Joints are highly specialized organs allowing repetitive painfree and largely frictionless movements.