Companion Animal Nutrition Research Articles

160 The past, present, and future of biotics in companion animal nutrition

160 The past, present, and future of biotics in companion animal nutrition

Companion animal nutrition: Where we are and where we're headed

Companion animal nutrition: Where we are and where we're headed

Detection of antibiotic resistant Enterobacterales in commercial raw pet food: a preliminary study.

Raw diets have become popular in companion animal nutrition, but these diets may be contaminated with harmful bacteria because heat processing is not utilized to mitigate pathogens during the production process. We analyzed 24 commercially available frozen raw canine and feline diets for extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E). Samples were incubated in tryptic soy broth augmented with 50 μg/mL ampicillin to enrich for ESBL-E. ESBL-E were isolated using CHROMagar ESBL plates and isolate identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing were confirmed using the VITEK®2 instrument. ESBL-E were isolated from 42% (10/24) of raw diets, with E. coli, Enterobacter cloacae complex and Klebsiella pneumoniae predominating. Most ESBL-E isolates (71%, 32/45) were multidrug-resistant. Direct plating of samples onto tryptic soy agar yielded bacterial counts >6 log10 for 2 samples from two different manufacturers. This preliminary study justifies further investigation into the potential contribution of raw diets to the dissemination of antibiotic resistant bacteria in companion animals and domestic living spaces.

Pet Wellness and Vitamin A: A Narrative Overview.

The health of companion animals, particularly dogs and cats, is significantly influenced by nutrition, with vitamins playing a crucial role. Vitamin A, in particular, is indispensable, with diverse roles ranging from vision to immune modulation and reproduction. Despite its importance, the metabolism and dietary requirements of vitamin A in companion animals remain complex and not fully understood. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the historical perspective, the digestion, the metabolism, the physiological roles, the deficiency, the excess, and the interactions with other micronutrients of vitamin A in companion animals. Additionally, it highlights future research directions and gaps in our understanding. Insights into the metabolism of vitamin A in companion animals, personalized nutrition strategies based on genetic variability, longitudinal studies tracking the status of vitamin A, and investigations into its immunomodulatory effects are crucial for optimizing pet health and wellness. Furthermore, understanding the stability and bioavailability of vitamin A in pet food formulations is essential for ensuring the provision of adequate micronutrients. Overall, this review underscores the importance of vitamin A in companion animal nutrition and the need for further research to enhance our understanding and to optimize dietary recommendations for pet health and well-being.

Green banana flour as a novel functional ingredient in retorted feline diets.

Green banana flour (GBF) is a novel ingredient that is high in resistant starch and could be a dietary fiber source in companion animal nutrition. In addition, with its light brown color and pectin content, GBF could potentially serve as a natural color additive and thickening agent in pet food manufacturing. The purpose of this research is to evaluate different sources of GBF, the effect of GBF on texture and color in canned foods, and its effect on apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), fecal characteristics, and fecal fermentative end-products in healthy adult cats. Prior to the feline study, different sources of GBF were analyzed for chemical composition, manufacturing properties, true metabolizable energy, and fermentability. For the feline feeding trial, all treatment diets were formulated to meet or exceed the Association of American Feed Control Officials (Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) 2020. Official Publication. Champaign, IL.) guidelines for adult cat maintenance. There were five dietary treatments: rice control (4% rice flour), potato control (4% dehydrated potato flakes), 1% GBF (1% GBF and 3% rice flour), 2% GBF (2% GBF and 2% rice flour), and 4% GBF. All treatment diets were analyzed for texture and color. The animal study was conducted using a completely randomized design with 39 adult domestic cats. There was a 7-d diet adaptation period followed by a baseline fresh fecal collection to determine fecal score, pH, short-chain fatty acid, branched-chain fatty acid, phenol, indole, ammonia, and microbiota. The treatment period lasted for 21 d and a total fecal collection was performed during the last 4 d of this period to determine the ATTD. A fresh fecal sample was also collected during the total fecal collection to evaluate fecal score, pH, metabolites, and microbiota. The MIXED model procedures of SAS version 9.4 were used for statistical analysis. Treatment diets containing GBF had a lower hardness from the texture profile analysis (P < 0.05). For color analysis, the 4% GBF diet was darker in color compared with the rice diet (P < 0.05). There was no difference in food intake, fecal output, or ATTD of macronutrients among the treatment groups (P > 0.05). There was no interaction of treatment and time or main effects shown in fecal score, pH, metabolites, or microbiota diversity (P > 0.05). In conclusion, adding GBF to canned diets may affect the texture and color of the product, but GBF was comparable to traditional carbohydrate sources, rice, and potato, from a nutritional aspect.

The balance of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids in canine, feline, and equine nutrition: exploring sources and the significance of alpha-linolenic acid.

Both n-6 and n-3 fatty acids (FA) have numerous significant physiological roles for mammals. The interplay between these families of FA is of interest in companion animal nutrition due to the influence of the n-6:n-3 FA ratio on the modulation of the inflammatory response in disease management and treatment. As both human and animal diets have shifted to greater consumption of vegetable oils rich in n-6 FA, the supplementation of n-3 FA to canine, feline, and equine diets has been advocated for. Although fish oils are commonly added to supply the long-chain n-3 FA eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a heavy reliance on this ingredient by the human, pet food, and equine supplement industries is not environmentally sustainable. Instead, sustainable sourcing of plant-based oils rich in n-3 α-linolenic acid (ALA), such as flaxseed and camelina oils, emerges as a viable option to support an optimal n-6:n-3 FA ratio. Moreover, ALA may offer health benefits that extend beyond its role as a precursor for endogenous EPA and DHA production. The following review underlines the metabolism and recommendations of n-6 and n-3 FA for dogs, cats, and horses and the ratio between them in promoting optimal health and inflammation management. Additionally, insights into both marine and plant-based n-3 FA sources will be discussed, along with the commercial practicality of using plant oils rich in ALA for the provision of n-3 FA to companion animals.

Harnessing poultry slaughter waste for sustainable pet nutrition: a catalyst for growth in the pet food industry

Dogs, renowned for their social nature and versatile roles in human society, necessitate proper nutrition to maintain health and vitality. With the burgeoning pet food market in India driven by increasing poultry production, there exists an opportunity to address environmental concerns while advancing companion animal nutrition. Currently, disposal of inedible poultry byproducts poses environmental challenges, urging a shift towards sustainable practices. This paper advocates for the utilization of poultry slaughter waste in pet nutrition, highlighting its nutritional benefits and environmental implications. By recycling poultry waste into valuable sources of animal proteins, minerals, and vitamins, the pet food industry can meet the dietary needs of companion animals while mitigating environmental pollution. Furthermore, the incorporation of animal byproducts aligns with carnivores' natural dietary instincts and addresses the limitations of plant-based protein sources. Drawing from established practices in industrialized nations, this paper underscores the potential of poultry slaughter waste utilization to propel the growth of the pet food industry in India. Embracing this sustainable approach not only ensures the well-being of companion animals but also fosters economic development and environmental stewardship in the Indian context.

200 The Effects of Whole Hemp Seed Supplementation on Health Status, Voluntary Physical Activity, Fecal Quality, and Fermentative End-Products in Healthy Adult Dogs

Abstract The cultivation and utilization of hemp and hemp-derived products have increased at a rapid pace since the enactment of the 2018 farm bill which provided changes in regulation related to cannabis. Although there are three hemp-derived ingredients that have been generally recognized as safe status for human consumption by the FDA, no ingredients have been approved by the FDA for consumption by companion animals or defined by AAFCO. Hemp seeds have the potential to act as a rich source of plant protein, polyunsaturated fatty-acids, and dietary fiber in companion animal nutrition. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing ground whole hemp seed in a baked chew on voluntary physical activity, fecal characteristics, fermentative-end products, and overall health status in healthy adult dogs. All animal procedures were approved by the University of Illinois Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee and were in accordance with the United States Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. Thirty adult beagle dogs were used in a complete randomized design, with ten dogs assigned to each treatment. The dogs were fed the same commercially available, complete and balanced diet and were supplemented with one of three baked chews containing either a high inclusion of ground hemp seed (50%), a low inclusion of ground hemp seed (25%), or cellulose. The baked chews were fed at a level of 10% of the daily intake for 28 d and were formulated to be similar in macronutrient composition, approximately 25% fat, 20% protein, and 25% total dietary fiber. Duration and intensity of voluntary physical activity was measured using activity monitors for 4 d before supplementation and at the end of the supplementation period (d 24 to 27). Fasted blood and a fresh fecal sample were taken on d 0, 14, and 28 to monitor health status, blood variables, fecal characteristics and fermentative-end product concentrations. The baked chews were well accepted by the dogs with minimal intake refusals, and all dogs remained clinically healthy for the duration of the experimental period. No differences in fecal score or fecal pH were observed among the treatment groups (P &amp;gt; 0.05). The treatment did not have an effect on fecal concentrations of volatile fatty acids including acetate, propionate, butyrate, valerate, isovalerate, and isobutyrate (P &amp;gt; 0.05). Concentrations of fecal ammonia, phenols, and indoles were also similar among the groups (P &amp;gt; 0.05). No adverse effects were observed, and the data suggest that in a baked chew the whole ground hemp seed was comparable to the cellulose control.

Companion interview

Nicola Lakeman is Nutrition Manager with IVC Evidensia and provides advice and support on companion animal nutrition for both pet owners and veterinary practices. She firmly believes that offering guidance to clients on nutritional matters is an essential task for all members of the veterinary team – and one that is carried out with varying degrees of competence. Better known to many colleagues by her former name Nicola Ackerman, she is a highly qualified veterinary nurse and a popular speaker at veterinary conferences on the challenges facing the VN profession.

The role of black soldier fly larval protein and fat in companion-animal nutrition: challenges and opportunities from an industry perspective

The pet-food industry is a significant and rapidly growing market, with global sales estimated at over US$100 billion in 2020. The market size for pet food was estimated at 22.9 million tonnes in 2020. The number of cats and dogs being fed commercial pet food is also on the rise, with an estimated 62% of cats and 68% of dogs being fed commercial pet food in the United States alone with an estimated value of A$2.3 billion in 2020. This represents a growth of 3.3% from the previous year, and the market is expected to continue growing with a forecast compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% from 2021 to 2025. The demand for high-quality, specialised pet-food products has led to consistent year-on-year growth in the industry. With this, the increasing demand for commercial pet food on a global scale comes with growing sustainability challenges that must be addressed. In this paper, we will examine some of the opportunities for the use of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) meal and oil in pet-food formulations to reduce the environmental impact of pet food and pet ownership and deliver nutritional and functional benefits to our pets.

Comparative protein quality in black soldier fly larvae meal vs. soybean meal and fish meal using classical protein efficiency ratio (PER) chick growth assay model

Black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) is a relatively new ingredient that has attracted attention for application in human, farm, and companion animal nutrition. However, there is limited data on protein quality (PQ) of BSFLM. This study compared PQ in BSFLM with soybean meal (SBM) and fishmeal (FM) using the classical protein efficiency ratio (PER) chick growth assay model. A total of 240-male day-old Ross×Ross broiler chicks were allocated to 6 test diets for 10 d test. The corn starch-dextrose based diets were: 5 test diets containing 10% crude protein (CP) from casein (as a standard assay diet), SBM, FM, or BSFLM without or with (BSFLM+) additional essential amino acids (EAA) to match the levels of the SBM diet on digestible basis. A sixth diet was nitrogen-free (NFD), to enable calculation of net protein ratio (NPR). The birds had ad libitum access to feed and water, body weight (BW) and feed intake (FI) were recorded at the beginning and end of the experimental feeding period. Body weight gain (BWG), gain to feed ratio (G:F), crude protein intake (CPI), PER, and NPR were calculated. The analyzed CP (as fed) was 10.1, 12.8, 9.5, 11.7, and 14.9% for casein, SBM, FM, BSFLM, and BSFLM+ diets, respectively. Birds fed BSFLM+ had greater BWG (P < 0.01) than birds fed other diets. Feed intake was greater (P < 0.01) for birds fed BSFLM+ and FM diets than birds fed other diets. Birds fed BSFLM+ ate (P < 0.01) more CP than birds fed other diets. Diets had no (P > 0.05) effects on PER and NPR. In terms of ranking, the PER was 2.44, 2.38, 2.34, 2.28, and 2.10 g BWG/g CPI for BSFLM+, SBM, FM, casein, and BSLM, respectively. Corresponding values for NPR were 2.69, 2.78, 2.70, 2.74, and 2.48 g BWG/g CPI, respectively. In conclusion, the protein quality of BSFLM without or with additional EAA was comparable with FM and SBM.

Effects of extrusion specific mechanical energy and dryer conditions on the survival of Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 for commercial pet food applications

In companion animal nutrition, probiotics (direct-fed microbials) are considered functional ingredients that benefit the gastrointestinal and immune health of the host. Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 is a spore-forming bacterial strain that has been reported to survive environmental stresses, heat processing, and extreme-pH conditions. Extrusion cooking is the most widely used method to produce commercial dog and cat foods, however the thermal and mechanical forces exerted during extrusion and drying present a challenge for guaranteeing the viability of live microorganisms after processing. Two experiments were conducted to determine the reduction in viability of the microorganism at graded flour inoculation levels (0, 6.2, 6.7, and 7.3 log10 colony forming units per gram (CFU/g)) subjected to extrusion cooking under varied levels of specific mechanical energy that were achieved by adjusting the extruder water input (10, 12, and 20 kg/h), and extruder screw speed (400, 500, and 600 rpm). A second experiment was conducted to determine the survival of the microorganism subjected to three dryer conditions (49 °C for 10 min; 107 °C for 16 min; and 66 °C for 46 min). Enumeration of bacterial colony forming units was performed on pre- and post-processing samples. Extrusion data were analyzed using a general linear model using the GLIMMIX procedure, and dryer data were analyzed as a completely randomized design with one-way analysis of variance (SAS v. 9.4, SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC) with significance accepted at a level of 95% confidence (α = 0.05). The results indicate that the low SME extrusion conditions (in-barrel moisture of 35%, extruder screw speed of 400 rpm, and specific mechanical energy of 129 kJ/kg) resulted in the greatest retention (P < 0.05), with a mean log10 reduction of viable spores of 0.44, 2.15, and 2.67 for the low, moderate, and severe extrusion conditions, respectively. Viability of the spores through three dryer conditions were observed to be similar across all treatments. This study also demonstrated that the greatest losses of viability occurred during extrusion rather than drying, and that in-barrel moisture and extruder screw speed are two operational parameters may be modified for the optimization of Bacillus coagulans survival in extruded foods.

PSIII-4 Nutritional evaluation of yeast biomass from candida utilis as a protein source in cat diets

Abstract Yeast products have found much favor within companion animal nutrition. A recently developed proprietary process has introduced an enhanced yeast biomass from Candida utilis (merchandised as SylPro®) into the animal food marketplace. Candida utilis has been shown to be a valuable protein in canine, swine and aquaculture diets; however, no previous research has evaluated its use in feline diets. Therefore, the current objective was to determine the nutrient digestibility of diets containing SylPro® yeast biomass (SYL) as the primary protein source relative to soybean meal (SOY), pea protein concentrate (PEA), and chicken meal (CKN) fed to cats. Apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of diets were estimated using Titanium dioxide as an indigestible marker. The DM ATTD for SYL was lower (P &amp;lt; 0.0001) than CKN (86.39 vs. 87.43%, respectively) but similar to both SOY (85.66%) and PEA (86.54%). The OM ATTD of SYL, SOY, and PEA were not different (P &amp;lt; 0.0001) and were each lower than CKN (average of 89.60 vs. 91.16%, respectively). The CP ATTD for SYL (89.9%) was not different from the other three treatments (P = 0.0200). Crude fat ATTD of SYL was lower (92.52%; P &amp;lt; 0.0001) than all treatments with PEA being greatest (94.82%) and CKN and SOY intermediate (average of 93.84%). The SYL and CKN had higher TDF ATTD (average of 66.20%; P &amp;lt; 0.0001) relative to PEA and SOY (average of 49.79%). The GE ATTD of SYL was lower than CKN (90.18 vs. 90.97%, respectively; P = 0.0154) but similar to both SOY (90.18%) and PEA (90.30%). In conclusion, all diets were highly digestible but CKN preformed the best. The SYL diet was similar to CKN for ATTD of CP and TDF. The SYL diet was also similar to both SOY and PEA for ATTD of DM, OM, CP and GE.

120 Analytical Strategies for Survey Data in Pet Nutrition and Management

Abstract Companion animal researchers have been at the forefront of using survey methodologies to study dogs’ and cats’ dietary and health patterns in the general population. The reporting of survey results has increased in recent years, facilitated by the rise in internet access, the modest cost of conducting web surveys, and the capability to target surveys to pet owners through address lists collected by services and social media. Data from population surveys have the potential to garner unique and comprehensive information that complements the understanding offered by designed experiments. Recent developments in survey methodologies and the availability of user-friendly survey tools enable the collection of large-scale or even Big Data sets, not only in the number of survey responses but also in the number and type of variables measured. Irrespective of the sample size, the study of survey data necessitates the consideration of complex sampling designs and analysis approaches that reflect the nature of this data. An overview of the characteristics of complex sampling designs typical of survey data with applications to companion animal nutrition is presented. The fundamentals of the analytical approaches that are suitable for survey data are demonstrated, and procedures available to accommodate clustering, stratification, underrepresentation, and nonresponse are reviewed. Examples of survey data visualization and analysis strategies are presented.

Supplementation of Diets With Bovine Colostrum Influences Immune and Gut Function in Kittens.

In its early life a kitten faces many significant events including separation from its mother, re-homing and vaccination. The kitten is also slowly adapting to their post-weaning diet. Recent advances in companion animal nutrition have indicated that functional ingredients such as colostrum can help support the immune system and gastrointestinal health. Here we report for the first time the effect of feeding a diet containing 0.1% spray dried bovine colostrum (BC) to growing kittens on gut-associated lymphoid (GALT) tissue responses, systemic immune responses, and on intestinal microbiota stability. BC supplementation induced increased faecal IgA expression, and a faster and stronger antibody response to a rabies vaccine booster, indicative of better localised and systemic immune function, respectively. BC supplementation also helped to maintain kittens' intestinal microbiota stability in the face of a mildly challenging life event. These results show that BC supplementation can help strengthen the immune system and enhance the gut microbiota stability of growing kittens.

Companion Animal Nutrition Symposia 2020 - A Review.

For the 2020 ASAS-CSAS Annual Meeting held in Madison, WI the Companion Animal nutrition section had three symposia to address “Food fraud and food safety in companion animal foods”, “Feeding behavior and management”, and “Dairy ingredients and their application in pet food”. As pets moved from the barn into homes, pet parents pay closer attention to dietary strategies and feeding practices that may improve pet health and longevity. Food safety is a key component to support health of pet animals and humans since they share the same environment, including areas devoted for food preparation and storage. Another key aspect is the use of novel and functional ingredients to improve health, for example the use of dairy products. While the health benefits associated with consumption of dairy ingredients (i.e., whey, kefir, yogurt) are known for humans, there is a need for further evaluation of the nutritional adequacy and functionality of these ingredients for companion animals. Finally, humanization of pets may have impacted their lives more than we thought, as the number of overweight and obese animals are rising. We explored some of the issues related to how the food could be a factor in contributing with obesity and strategies to help pets to lose weight.

Ontario Veterinary College First-Year Veterinary Students' Perceptions of Companion Animal Nutrition and Their Own Nutrition: Implications for a Veterinary Nutrition Curriculum.

Extant research shows veterinarians face increasing challenges in discussing nutrition with clients despite receiving professional nutrition education in the veterinary medical curriculum. This article's aim is to elicit student veterinarians' baseline nutrition-related perceptions and nutrition information-seeking behaviors at the time of entering veterinary school. Participants were newly enrolled veterinary students at the Ontario Veterinary College (n = 120). Focus group discussions (n = 19) informed the design of an online questionnaire capturing students' demographics and perceptions of their own and their pets' nutrition. Students reported being influenced by individual factors (e.g., time), social networks (e.g., family), and surrounding environment (e.g., cost, contradictory media messages). Overall, 58% of students considered themselves knowledgeable about pet nutrition when commencing veterinary school, with 71% prioritizing their pets' diets as much as their own. Students' confidence in finding pet nutrition information was correlated with perceived accessibility (r = .76, p = .001) and perceived quantity of information available on pet nutrition (r = .83, p = .001), but not quality of information (r = .13, p = .03). In general, students relied on and trusted veterinarians for nutrition advice. However, 94% of students mistrusted pet food companies' motivations. Our data support that students entering veterinary school have their own perceptions on pet nutrition that impact nutrition education, suggesting this as an important consideration in the design and delivery of a veterinary nutrition curriculum. Veterinary medical faculty should be encouraged to discuss baseline nutrition information and address any misconceptions to prepare students for future consultations with clients.

339 Challenges and opportunities in developing a companion animal nutrition curriculum for veterinary students

Abstract Preparing future veterinarians who are knowledgeable and competent in companion animal nutrition presents distinct challenges and opportunities for veterinary educators. Students enter veterinary school from vastly different undergraduate backgrounds, which translates to students with varying degrees of knowledge related to companion animals and nutrition. Oftentimes, nutrition may be overlooked or not emphasized in veterinary curricula, resulting in new graduates who are not able to perform diet assessments for patients. Because nutrition is a fundamental cornerstone of health, veterinary educators have a responsibility to provide veterinary students with the knowledge and skills necessary to be competent in companion animal nutrition. Challenges for veterinary educators in delivering companion animal nutrition curriculum can be broadly categorized as: 1) challenges regarding lack of student knowledge of the petfood industry/companion animal nutrition, 2) challenges in student ability to apply companion animal nutrition skills, 3) challenges in preparing students for communication with clients, and 4) challenges regarding educational resources to teach veterinary students. On the other hand, many opportunities exist for veterinary curricula to incorporate nutrition effectively. These opportunities include, but are not limited to, offering basic and advanced nutrition courses, nutrition labs, and nutrition case studies. To produce veterinarians competent in companion animal nutrition, veterinary educators must identify and overcome the challenges in training veterinary students.

336 Integration of teaching and extension of companion animal biology and nutrition

Abstract Students have a strong desire for hands on experiences during their undergraduate careers. This can be accomplished through combining teaching with extension to provide students with new experiences. Many students chose Animal Science because they had experiences with extension programs when younger and they have a desire to help animals. Utilizing undergraduate students in community outreach programs provides an opportunity for students to develop critical skills required for employment, but also provides a broader reach of companion animal extension programs. A variety of creative activities can be utilized to improve student learning and gain experiences outside of the classroom. Extension or outreach programs allow for opportunities for students to develop leadership skills. Undergraduate students serving as instructors in 4-H and other youth programs can provide both an impact on the education of the youth involved, but also develop a deeper understanding of materials. Undergraduate students can be involved in teaching health care, nutrition, and other topics related to companion animals to youth audiences. Examples of successful programs include student organized dog training courses, service-learning projects through humane societies or animal rescues, student involvement in feral cat control programs, and student assistance with spay/neuter programs. These activities can support student-learning outcomes as well as provide a valuable community service. During the process, the Kolb’s experiential learning cycle should be used to promote student development. This cycle includes a concrete experience, reflection, conceptualization, and active experimentation. Students must reflect on their experiences, consider how it could be improved, how it relates to their future careers and educational experience, and propose areas of improvement to gain the most from their experiences. Measuring the impacts of these activities on student learning and life skills, as well as community implications, will be critical to evaluation of the success of the programs.

PSVI-5 Undergraduate success in animal science courses based on demographics, motivation, and online courses

Abstract A deeper understanding of student demographics, motivation, and outlook of online vs. face to face courses in Animal Science is needed to allow educators to facilitate greater student success. The purpose of this study was to investigate student factors which effected their final course grades. The following courses were surveyed at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Animal Science Department: Animal Products (ASCI 210), Anatomy and Physiology of Domestic Animals (ASCI 240), Introduction to Companion Animals (ASCI 251), Companion Animal Behavior (ASCI 271), Companion Animal Nutrition (ASCI 321), Equine. Nutrition (ASCI 322), Equine Reproduction (ASCI 342), Animal Welfare (ASCI 370), Processed Meats (ASCI 410), (n = 139). The survey utilized a 5 part likert-type scale; (1) strongly disagree, (2) disagree, (3) don’t know, (4) agree, (5) strongly agree with questions measuring student motivation in scales of intrinsic motivation, self-determination, self-efficacy, career motivation, and grade motivation. Additional questions relating student demographics (gender, ethnicity, experience, area of study, e.g.) were included. Survey analyses and student final course grades were analyzed by Spearman Correlation Coefficients to observe correlations and p-values of student demographics, motivation, and online vs. face to face student success. Students with increased motivation in self-efficiency, self-determination, and grade motivation showed a tendency of higher final course grades. No significant correlations were found in student demographics with final course grades. The method delivery, face to face (n = 101) or online (n = 38) had no difference in final course letter grades. These data indicate student final grades appeared to be influenced greater by certain motivations, rather than demographics or methods of delivery. The results of this study will allow educators to identify motivators, to increased success in student learning in Animal Science.