Tue Apr 29 3:10 PM - 4:15 PM | Pet food nutrition sessions: Obesity, life stages, nutrient profiles KCCC 2104A-B - Unraveling the myth of dietary carbohydrates and feline obesity: A meta-analysis and study findings — Hannah Godfrey, BSc.H., MSc., Ph.D. candidate, University of Guelph Ontario Veterinary College, explains conflicting results previously reported in studying high-carbohydrate versus high-protein diets for addressing obesity in cats. Using a meta-analysis approach, she synthesized findings across 16 studies to determine the relationship between dietary carbohydrates and body fat mass, fasted glucose and fasted insulin concentrations in cats. Following the findings from the meta-analysis, she then conducted a study using a three-test diet approach, incorporating a pairwise isoenergetic reduction of each macronutrient to test the individual effect of each energy source — an underutilized study design. The findings aligned with the meta-analysis, offering new insights into altering dietary fat, rather than carbohydrates, to address obesity and insulin resistance.
- Innovating pet nutrition: Combating the pet obesity epidemic with new food approaches and ingredients — Kathy Gross, Ph.D., adjunct professor, and Julia Guazzeli Pezzali, Ph.D., assistant professor, Kansas State University Pet Food Program, focus on understanding the pet obesity epidemic, exploring nutritional innovations and formulation approaches specifically for overweight and obese pets. In addition, Gross discusses the emerging role of gut health and the gut microbiome in obesity, plus practical application of recent research on ingredients to develop effective weight management pet foods. This approach advocates for regulatory updates to aid safe and effective product formulation.
- Time to reconsider NRC and AAFCO guidelines for amino acid requirements in dogs? — Claire Timlin, Ph.D., director of research and development, Four Rivers Kennel, highlights the need for further canine-specific research to inform pet food formulations, particularly with the differences between existing industry research and the nutritional guidelines laid out by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which are largely based on data summarized in the “Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats” (NRC) last published in 2006. Demographics of the companion animal population are changing, and despite the increased number of senior dogs, there are no recommended guidelines for the amino acid requirements of this important life stage, though several studies conducted since 2006 have reported on those requirements. Dickerson and her team have studied the amino acid requirements of Labrador retrievers across the life cycle, with a focus on the aging dog. Her presentation also discusses the bioavailability of amino acids from different protein sources.
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