Interactions of Cellulose Content and Diet Composition with Food Intake and Digestibility in Dogs

Abstract

In diets specifically designed for obese dogs and cats, fiber is considered important to reduce energy density and therefore energy intake. However, there is contradictory evidence on the effects of high fiber diets on food intake. Butterwick and Markwell (1997) found no influence of soluble or insoluble fiber on the energy intake in energy-restricted dogs. In contrast, Jewell and Toll (1995) noted decreased energy and dry matter intake in dogs after they were fed a medium or high fiber diet. These differences may be due to different composition or palatability of basic experimental diets. In this investigation, we studied the interactions between diet composition (especially high fat content) and fiber (cellulose) on dry matter intake. Digestibility of macronutrients and organic matter was also determined in some high fiber diets.