Abstract
The nutritional assessment is deemed the 5th vital sign in performing a clinical evaluation in veterinary patients, as described by World Small Animal Veterinary Association since 2011. A recent report of the veterinary profession demonstrated there is an underuse of this tool which may be restricted to critically ill patients. Ageing changes in cats and dogs will cause reduction in lean body mass termed sarcopaenia, which increases mortality and morbidity and reduces QoL. Early detection of sarcopaenia can lead to appropriate advice relating to diet and exercise, which could delay and slow the onset of this damaging syndrome. The RVN can play a pivotal role in performing regular nutritional assessments in ageing patients.
Highlights
It is professionally accepted that appropriate and adequate nutrition is one of the most important factors in maintaining health and managing disease in veterinary patients (Lumbis, 2014)
The nutritional assessment must include an evaluation of the following factors: clinical examination of the patient, dietary history and patient environment (Eirmann, 2016). It is advised by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) that the nutritional assessment should be performed every time a patient presents to the veterinary practice for consultation, as each factor can change throughout the pet’s lifetime
Sarcopaenia is common in ageing pets and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality factors and reduced quality of life (QoL) leading to decisions to euthanise
Summary
It is professionally accepted that appropriate and adequate nutrition is one of the most important factors in maintaining health and managing disease in veterinary patients (Lumbis, 2014). Ageing changes in cats and dogs will cause reduction in lean body mass termed sarcopaenia, which increases mortality and morbidity and reduces QoL. It is advised by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and WSAVA that the nutritional assessment should be performed every time a patient presents to the veterinary practice for consultation, as each factor can change throughout the pet’s lifetime.
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