Abstract
Dietary fibre has been a subject of study in companion animal nutrition for approximately 25 years, recently focusing on its benefits for dog and cat health and well-being. Pet animal diets contain significant amounts of carbohydrates, including dietary fibre. Depending on the properties of carbohydrates and their level in the diet, different physiological effects occur. High concentrations of dietary fibre affect appetite regulation and, potentially, gastric emptying, intestinal transit time and nutrient digestibility. Other effects include changes in faecal consistency and volume, increased production of short chain fatty acids, and alterations in the microbial population. Recent work on prebiotics and the benefits of a healthful large bowel microbiota has increased interest in dietary fibres and their potential value in clinical nutrition. This chapter is an update of the Fahey et al. (2004) comprehensive review of the effect of dietary fibre on companion animal nutrition and health. Studies conducted since 2004 will be emphasised.
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