Diet Of Cats Research Articles

Effects of Different Processed Diets on Growth Performance, Blood Parameters, Hair Quality and Fecal Microbiota in Ragdoll Cats.

In recent years, there has been ongoing debate about the dietary choices for pet cats, particularly regarding three options: extruded dry food, cooked meat, and raw meat. Determining which diet is most suitable for a cat's healthy growth still requires substantial empirical support. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of feeding Ragdoll cats (n = 5/group) extruded dry food (ED), cooked meat (CM), and raw meat (RM) on their growth performance, apparent digestibility, fur condition, blood parameters, fecal scores, and gut microbiota composition. However, our results indicate that different types of diets did not significantly affect the daily weight gain of Ragdoll cats. The CM group showed a significant improvement in the digestibility of dry matter, fat and protein compared to the ED group (p < 0.05) but no improvement in that of fat compared to the RM group. Compared to the ED group, both the CM and RM groups showed significant improvements in fur condition while exhibiting a significant decrease in fecal scores (p < 0.05). The CM and RM groups exhibited enhanced serum antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05) and increased immunity in the cats (p < 0.05). Immunity enhancement in the CM group was significantly higher than that in the RM group(p < 0.05). The ED group showed an increase in the abundance of beneficial bacteria in Ragdoll cat intestines, while the CM and RM groups showed enhancements in the innate microbiota of feline animals. These data, to some extent, suggest that CM is the most suitable diet for Ragdoll cats, but further research on intestine microbiota is still needed. These study findings provide a reference for purebred pet breeding purposes.

Effects of Dietary Changes on Feline Obesity in Cats in the United States

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the effects of dietary changes on feline obesity in cats in the United States. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Recent studies indicate that dietary changes play a crucial role in addressing feline obesity in the United States. Research shows that transitioning to high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets can significantly reduce weight gain and promote healthier body conditions in cats. Additionally, the incorporation of portion control and feeding schedules, alongside the use of specialized weight management foods, has been linked to effective weight loss in overweight felines. The findings also highlight the importance of increasing fiber content in cat diets, which aids in satiety and reduces overall calorie intake. Furthermore, educating pet owners about the impact of treats and the need for regular veterinary consultations can enhance dietary compliance and improve feline health outcomes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Energy balance theory, obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) theory &amp; behavioral theory of eating may be used to anchor future studies on the effects of dietary changes on feline obesity in cats in the United States. Practically, to address feline obesity, pet owners and veterinarians should adopt several evidence-based dietary strategies. From a policy perspective, several key actions are recommended to address feline obesity on a broader scale.

302 Microgreen and sprouted sorghum as ingredients in raw meat diets for healthy adult cats

Abstract Germination has the potential to naturally enhance the nutritional value of grains, enabling its inclusion in raw diets without compromising their raw status. Germinated sorghum may offer additional value compared with other grains as a sustainable, gluten-free and non-genetically modified option. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating two forms of germinated sorghum, sprouted and microgreens, into raw diets on the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of macronutrients and energy, and fecal characteristics of adult cats. Four complete and balanced raw diets were formulated based on a basal ration (70%), comprised of whole raw chicken, vitamins and minerals, with the addition of sorghum (30%) in four different forms: raw (SR), cooked (boiled; SC), sprouted (SS), and microgreens (SM). Diets were formulated to be isoenergetic and isonutritive; however, they were found to be slightly different in energy and protein content due to changes in nutrient composition during processing of the sorghum grain. Healthy adult shorthair cats [n = 11; 5.1 ± 1.0 kg, average body weight (BW)] were enrolled in an incomplete 4×4 Latin square design. Each experimental period consisted of a 5-d adaptation phase followed by a 5-d collection phase, during which total fecal collection and assessment of fecal score were performed. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with diet as fixed effect, and cat(square), square and period as random effects. One cat was removed from the study due to reasons unrelated to the treatments, while two cats refused to eat the SM diet. Cats fed the SM and SC diets exhibited less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) wet fecal output compared to those fed the SS and SR. Fecal score was affected by diet (P &amp;lt; 0.05), with loose stools (16.37%) observed in cats fed SS and both diarrhea (11.6%) and loose stools (20%) observed in those fed SR, which were absent in those fed the other treatments. Protein ATTD (average 90%) did not differ (P &amp;gt; 0.05) among dietary treatments. Dry matter, organic matter, and gross energy ATTD were 3 to 6% greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in cats fed the SC diet compared with those fed the other treatments; but digestibility coefficients remained within acceptable ranges (&amp;gt; 80%). Fat ATTD was affected P &amp;lt; 0.05) by diet, with cats fed SS having the greatest value and those fed the SC the least; however, the numerical differences (&amp;lt; 2%) were unlikely to have biological relevance. In conclusion, the inclusion of microgreen and sprouted sorghum at 30% in raw meat cat diets did not improve the ATTD of energy and macronutrients compared with when sorghum was added in its raw form. Nevertheless, microgreen sorghum led to an improvement in fecal quality in cats compared with when sorghum was provided in its raw form.

291 Isoenergetic reduction of dietary macronutrients changes body composition and physical activity in cats, regardless of body condition, when fed to maintenance

Abstract Commercial extruded cat foods deviate noticeably from the natural diet of wild cats and contain greater carbohydrate and less protein. This alteration in macronutrient distribution is postulated as a potential factor in feline obesity, yet the precise role of carbohydrates in either predisposing to, or treating, obesity in cats remains inconclusive. This study explored the effects of diets differing in protein, fat, and carbohydrates (NFE) on physical activity and body composition when fed to adult male cats to maintain body weight (BW). Three extruded diets were formulated for adult maintenance according to AAFCO in an isoenergetic approach using the same ingredients in varying proportions: low-protein (LP; protein 28% of metabolizable energy [ME], fat 40% ME, NFE 32% ME), low-fat (LF; protein 42% ME, fat 30% ME, NFE 30% ME), or low-carbohydrate (LC; protein 36% ME, fat 41%ME, NFE 23% ME). Lean (n = 9) and obese (n = 9) adult male neutered cats were fed each diet for 4-wk in a 3 x 3 Latin square design. Physical activity was measured via actigraphy on d 15 to 21 of each period. On d 23 total tissue mass (TTM), body fat mass (BFM), lean soft tissue mass (LSTM), and bone mineral content (BMC) were assessed by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Daily food intake and weekly BW were recorded. Data were statistically analyzed in SAS Studio via the GLIMMIX procedure with diet and body condition (bc) as fixed effects and cat as subject. A Tukey post-hoc analysis was performed to assess multiple comparisons when significant (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Body weight (Pbc &amp;lt; 0.0001), TTM (Pbc &amp;lt; 0.0001), BFM (Pbc &amp;lt; 0.0001), LSTM (Pbc &amp;lt; 0.0001), and BMC (Pbc = 0.004) were greater in obese compared with lean cats. Regardless of body condition, LSTM was greater in cats consuming the LF diet (P = 0.010). Daily physical activity was similar between lean and obese cats; however, activity as a ratio of light:dark activity was greater for lean cats compared with obese (Pbc = 0.027). Additionally, cats were more active during dark hours when fed LC and LF (Pdiet = 0.016), though no difference was observed for activity during light hours (P = 0.452). These findings support previous observations regarding body composition disparities between lean and obese cats. Contrary to previous reports, no discernible distinctions in voluntary physical activity were noted between lean and obese cats. In previous studies, both high-carbohydrate and high-fat diets reduced voluntary physical activity when fed to maintain BW which was attributed to a potential alteration in mood and energy levels seen in other species. An increase in physical activity in cats consuming the LF diet could suggest a similar pattern. Future research should explore the metabolic implications of varied macronutrient distributions to expand upon the physiological insights presented herein. Funding for this study was provided by Champion Petfoods, Mitacs Accelerate, and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada.

Dietary habits of fishing cats in a human-dominated wetland in Coastal Thailand

Abstract. Wongson T, Khaewphakdee S, Mongkonsin W, Serieys LEK, Wong W-M, Yindee M, Pattanarangsan R, Suksavate W, Promkuntod P, Klakhaeng C, Sukmasuang R. 2024. Dietary habits of fishing cats in a human-dominated wetland in Coastal Thailand. Biodiversitas 25: 2788-2797. Fishing cats, intimately connected to wetland habitats, face an escalating threat from human activities and environmental change. With its significant findings, this study offers a comprehensive insight into the dietary habits of fishing cats in a human-dominated wetland in coastal Thailand. By examining the scats of 192 fishing cats (Prionailurus viverrinus Bennett 1833) and the remains of 328 prey items, we detailed the fishing cat's diet and assessed its seasonality. Consequently, we identified 16 prey species consumed by fishing cats during the study period. The primary prey was fish, followed by rodents, birds, Indo-Chinese rat snakes (Ptyas korros (Hermann Schlegel 1837)), insects, crabs, and snails. The most crucial prey was the climbing perch (Anabas testudineus Bloch 1792) (n=69), followed by bandicoot rats (Bandicota indica Bechstein, 1800) (n=54), domestic chicken (Gallus gallus Linnaeus 1758) (n=48), and snakehead murrel (Channa striata Bloch 1793) (n=38). The niche breadth index indicated the highest specialization during the summer, while the dietary diversity index was 0.44, 0.52, and 0.38 during the summer, rainy, and winter seasons, respectively. Seasonal variations in dietary composition were not statistically significant. The niche overlap index was 0.95 between the summer and the rainy season, 0.91 between the rainy season and winter, and 0.87 between the summer and winter. These findings, with their direct implications for the conservation of fishing cats, highlight the urgent need for effective land-use management in species preservation.

Comparative Analysis of Dental Diseases in Domestic Cats Fed Different Diets in Canada

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the comparative analysis of dental diseases in domestic cats fed different diets. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In studying domestic cats on different diets, it's clear that those eating dry kibble or dental-specific foods tend to have better dental health than those on wet diets. Dry food's abrasive texture helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, whereas wet diets provide less mechanical cleaning, leading to higher risks of dental diseases like periodontal issues and gingivitis. Dental-specific diets with added oral health benefits play a key role in maintaining gum health and reducing plaque. Veterinary advice stresses the importance of these diets along with regular dental care for overall feline health and wellbeing. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social learning theory, health belief model &amp; biological theory of aging may be used to anchor future studies on comparative analysis of dental diseases in domestic cats fed different diets. Veterinarians and pet owners should be informed about the significant role of diet in maintaining feline dental health. Policy initiatives could advocate for clearer labeling and educational campaigns regarding the dental health benefits of specific cat diets.

Nutritional Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), the land-grant university for the State of Illinois, was founded in 1865, and education in nutrition was recorded as early as 1874. Herein, the contributions of the UIUC to research and graduate training in the field of nutrition are highlighted. Over the past 150 years, faculty members from many academic units have provided foundational nutrition research, including identifying the last essential amino acid, threonine, and establishing chemically defined amino acid diets for chicks, rats, dogs, and cats that led to establishing amino acid requirements for these species. Research on the adverse health effects of trans fatty acids supported their removal from the food system. UIUC has led in the area of functional foods for health, including plant bioactives, soy, and fiber. More recently, UIUC faculty have evaluated the interactions between dietary components and neurocognitive, microbiome, and health outcomes, including cancer. In 2020, the cross-campus Personalized Nutrition Initiative was launched to coordinate interdisciplinary research. The Division of Nutritional Sciences was established in 1968 as one of the country’s first interdisciplinary graduate training programs. The Division of Nutritional Sciences program has conferred over 580 degrees and has implemented innovations in graduate education, many supported by federal training grants and endowed awards and programs.

Proof-of-concept study of anti-Fel d 1 IgY antibodies in cat food using the MASK-air® app.

An innovation to better manage cat-allergic patients utilises anti-Fel d 1 IgY antibodies to neutralise Fel d 1 after its production by the cat. However, there is no published study showing its clinical efficacy in humans in a home setting. A longitudinal, open-label, proof-of-concept study was carried out to approach clinical efficacy of the cat food in cat-allergic patients. After a baseline evaluation, the cats ate only the cat food for the following 4months. Daily evaluation of efficacy was performed for 2weeks at baseline and after 1, 2 and 3months of intervention for periods of 2weeks. The MASK-air app was used daily to assess symptoms, work productivity and medications. Of the 49 patients screened, 42 were followed up and 33 (78.5%) reported MASK-air data at all 3 evaluation periods. The primary end point (visual analogue scale[VAS] for global allergy symptoms) was significantly improved (p<0.0001). Allsymptoms (VAS nose, eye, and asthma), VAS work and the combined symptom-medication score significantly improved after 1month. The percentage of uncontrolled days (VAS>20/100) decreased from 64% at baseline to 35% at 1month (p<0.0001) and 14% at 3months. A sensitivity analysis in patients with uncontrolled disease at baseline found similar results. A cat diet containing anti-Fel d 1 antibodies was able to (i) show decreased allergic symptoms and related outcomes, (ii) inform the design and feasibility of future studies with a control arm and (iii) estimate the sample size of the study. clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05656482.

Nutritional risks and consequences of meat-only diets for dogs and cats

Suitable nutrition is one of the most significant issues that always needs to be considered in the health mainte-nance of living beings. One of the misconcep-tions of many societies is the exclusive feeding of meat to cats and dogs. Dogs and cats are carnivorous animals; more specifically, cats are strict or true carni-vores, while dogs are omnivores. Although cats are true carni-vores, an exclusive diet of meat will not cover their needs. Wholly meat-based diets might be rich in many nutri-ents and minerals, but they are poor in digesti-ble carbohydrates and fiber. Lack of carbohy-drates can cause gas-trointestinal problems and diarrhea. Also, due to hypovitaminosis A and D caused by such diets, skeletal diseases can be one of the seri-ous consequences. High dietary phosphate &gt; 11.8 g in dry matter (DM) reduces renal phosphate reabsorption and increases vulnera-bility to chronic kidney disease. As phosphate excretion and reduction of calcium reabsorption continue, bone decom-position, symptoms of osteoporosis, and sec-ondary hyperparathy-roidism occur. In wholly meat-based canine di-ets, a lack of carbohy-drates compels the an-imal to use protein in the gluconeogenesis process to produce glu-cose. As a result, the body goes through pro-tein deficiency and its side effects. To main-tain digestive system health and prevent diar-rhea, the diet must in-clude soluble fiber. Al-so, the presence of car-bohydrates and fats is essential. Preserving the correct calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (Ca:P) can be solved by adding carbohydrates or using meats with a lower phosphorus content.

Effects of inulin on fecal microbiota and specific immunity in cats

Inulin has potential benefits for alleviating intestinal stress syndrome, constipation, and immunomodulation. However, its effects on cat gastrointestinal tract remain unexplored. Eight healthy adult British short-haired cat were administered 50 mg/kg/d inulin with a basal diet for 21 days, while fecal samples were collected to measure indole and 3-methylindole levels, immune index detection, and fecal microbial diversity on days 0, 7, 14, and 21. The results showed that adding inulin to the diet of cat could cause the increase of sIgA on day 14 (P < 0.05) and enhance their immune performance. In addition, it will also affect the fecal microbiota of the cat. Collinsella abundance was significantly increased, which could indulge ursodeoxycholic acid production. Feeding inulin had no significant effect on the levels of indole and 3-methylindole (P > 0.05). The above results showed that inulin supplementation in cat diet could improve cat health by enhancing immunity and increasing intestinal beneficial flora.

PERSIAN CAT WITH STAPHYLOCOCCUS SP. CYSTITIS

The vesica urinaria is inflamed in cystitis. The pH of the urine, the amount of food consumed, and bacterial infection are all factors that can contribute to infection and the production of uroliths. This article seeks to learn more about the procedures for diagnosing, managing, and treating feline cystitis problems. A male, black Persian cat with a body weight of 4.9 kg, two years old. With complaints of hematuria throughout the previous two days and complains of incontinence and inability to urinate with much volume. Urinary vesica wall thickening was discovered during ultrasound examination, along with urinary vesica crystals. Urinalysis, hematology testing, and urine culture were done. As a crystal breaker in the urinary vesica, ciprofloxacin dexamethasone and Batugin herbal medication were administered to the case animal. Change the cat diet and feed used for urinary care. One week after starting the therapy, the cat appeared in good health, peeing normally and without any signs of pain or blood. Based on macroscopic examination, the cat's urine was yellow and free of blood. The cat's urine was examined under a microscope, and no crystals were found. After seven days of medication, the case cat had positive effects. Smooth urination started, and there was no sign of stranguria, oliguria, or hematuria.

Raw diets for dogs and cats: Potential health benefits and threats.

Raw meat-based diets for pet nutrition are becoming increasingly popular. The percentage of meat content, composition of nutrients, and amount of additives started to play an important role in the recipe of a given food. However, the use of healthier and unprocessed food must also be balanced with the animal's specific needs based on its anatomy, physiology, and behavior. There are many potential advantages and disadvantages of a biologically appropriate raw food (BARF) diet, and all of them should be considered before switching to this approach. Raw meat is considered a diet closest to nature and least processed. However, raw diets threaten pet health because of the potential for nutrient imbalances. The choice of raw meat in pets' everyday diet should be supported by the veterinarian's medical decision and preferably also with nutritionist help. Growing animals require a specific Ca:P ratio in their diet, which may be improper in raw meat. For cats, taurine levels must be carefully checked. In addition, an imbalanced raw-meat diet can be the cause of poor semen quality in males. Females are prone to inhibition of the estrus cycle, especially due to hyperthyroidism. Exogenous thyroid hormone intake is a real concern when feeding a neck/head meat with thyroid glands. There is also a possibility of bacterial or parasitic presence in raw meat. The present paper aims to summarize the current state of knowledge about the benefits and threats of eating a raw meat diet for the health concerns of companion animals.

PROFIL KWASÓW TŁUSZCZOWYCH I ZAWARTOŚĆ TŁUSZCZU W RYBACH, METODY MODYFIKACJI I MOŻLIWOŚCI WYKORZYSTANIA W ŻYWIENIU PSÓW I KOTÓW

Fish are rich in high-quality protein. Additionally, they are known for their high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids such as EPA and DHA. This review aims to provide an overview of the lipid fraction of selected fish species, exploring methods of manipulating fatty acid content and discovering the resulting health benefits for dogs and cats. The article discusses innovative methods used to manipulate fatty acid content in fish, including nutritional strategies, selective breeding and new technologies. Based on the current scientific literature, the article synthesizes knowledge on the impact of these manipulation methods on the nutritional quality of fish. Additionally, literature data were presented indicating the positive aspects of including fish in the diet of dogs and cats. EPA and DHA are responsible for a number of health benefits, including supporting the circulatory system, cognitive functions and the learning process, an element of diet therapy in the treatment of cancer, and alleviating pain associated with degenerative joint diseases.

Does landscape composition influence the diets of feral cats in agroecosystems?

Habitat fragmentation can influence the diet of mammalian predators, potentially increasing their impact on prey species. Agroecosystems are fragmented landscapes that often have high densities of invasive mammalian predators. Feral cats are generalist predators that have successfully adapted to living in agricultural landscapes. Feral cats are known to eat rabbits, rodents, and birds, but it is unclear how landscape characteristics affect prey consumption. Here, we tested whether feral cat diet in New Zealand agroecosystems was affected by landscape composition and spatial configuration. We examined the contents of 112 feral cat gastrointestinal tracts collected from agroecosystems in different New Zealand regions over a 3-year period. We related prey richness and composition to the landscape composition and spatial configuration in a 500-ha area within which each cat was caught. Dietary analysis showed that feral cats were consuming invertebrates, birds, rodents, and rabbits, and that there were some regional and seasonal effects. No significant differences in prey richness or composition of the diet were associated with variation in landscape composition or spatial configuration. This study confirms feral cats as generalist predators that feed on a wide range of prey types in New Zealand agroecosystems, including some native species. Our study highlights the importance of further research for understanding how current conservation interventions in New Zealand, which include revegetation and rodent control, interact with feral cat populations and behaviours to impact on future biodiversity outcomes.

Stable Isotope Analysis Reveals Feral Cat Diet on the Chatham Islands

Feral cats are significant invasive predators in New Zealand and are widely associated with drastic declines in breeding seabird populations. Suppressing or controlling feral cat populations has been a major conservation focus in large island ecosystems, including Rēkohu (The Chatham Islands). The Chatham Island tāiko (Pterodroma magentae) naturally persists in a single breeding colony after experiencing rapid population declines in the 19th &amp; 20th centuries. A deeper understanding of feral cat ecology and diet is required to ensure control methods maximise conservation benefits. We used stable isotope analysis of feral cat fur, claws, and bone collagen to investigate the ecology and diet of feral cats trapped in the Tuku Nature Reserve on Rēkohu (The Chatham Islands). We predicted that cat diet would be highly specialised among individuals but relatively stable over time. To estimate the relative contribution of available prey to feral cat diets we employed Bayesian mixing models. Standard ellipse areas were used to understand diet stability over time. Our results have implications for the ongoing management of the Chatham Island Taiko.&#x0D; Supervised by: Cilla Wehi

Influence of a Mixture of Protein Hydrolysate from Black Soldier Fly Larvae and Schizochytrium on Palatability, Plasma Biochemistry, and Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Capacity in Cat Diets.

The objective of this research was to evaluate palatability, plasma biochemistry, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory capacity, and immune levels in cats by feeding supplementing inclusion of different levels of a mixture of protein hydrolysate from black soldier fly larvae and schizochytrium (BSFPs) in diets. In the feed experiment, a total of 24 adult cats (12 females and 12 males; BW: 3.02 ± 0.06 kg) were randomly divided into four groups: (1) diet with chicken and fish meal as primary protein resource (CON); (2) diet with 5% BSFPs replacing chicken meal, fish meal, chicken oil, and fish oil (5% BSFPs); (3) 10% BSFPs; and (4) 15% BSFPs. The body weight and feed intake were recorded, and a blood sample was collected for analysis. In the palatability experiment, three diets containing 5%, 10%, and 15% BSFPs were evaluated by comparing with CON. These results suggested that different levels of BSFPs could improve palatability in cat diets by enhancing the first sniff, the first bite, and feed intake (p < 0.05). However, no significant influence existed in body weight and average daily feed intake (p > 0.05). In comparison to the CON group, 5% and 15% BSFPs significantly increased the total protein content, and all treatment groups decreased the triglyceride content and enhanced the calcium concentration in plasma; in addition, the activity of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase and the content of creatinine and urea nitrogen were significantly reduced by the supplementation inclusion of BSFPs in the diets (p < 0.05). The enzyme activity of glutathione peroxidase was dramatically enhanced by the supplementation of 10% and 15% BSFPs in diets compared with the CON diet, and the activity of superoxide dismutase was increased and the malondialdehyde concentration was remarkably reduced in all three treatments (p < 0.05). Compared with the CON group, different levels of BSFPs in the diets significantly increased the immunoglobulin A content in plasma; similarly, the immunoglobulin G concentration was significantly enhanced by the supplementation of 10% and 15% BSFPs in the diets (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the interleukin-1β content was significantly reduced in the inclusion of 10% and 15% BSFPs in the diets, and 15% BSFPs remarkably decreased the content of interleukin-8 in plasma compared with the CON diet (p < 0.05). To sum up, the supplementation of different levels of BSFPs exhibited a positive effect on palatability and enhanced the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune capacity. Particularly, the addition levels of 10% and 15% BSFPs were more effective in antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and immunity.

Determining the effects of Candida utilis-fermented pea starch vs. unfermented pea starch, alone or in whole diets, on palatability and glycemic response in dogs and cats.

Current research suggests yeast fermentation has the potential to improve palatability of pea-based diets for both cats and dogs. However, to be useful, fermentation should not compromise other healthy attributes of peas such as a low glycemic response. Fermentation of uncooked pea starch with Candida utilis (ATCC 9950) appeared to increase crude protein, crude fiber content, inorganic compounds (phosphorus and iron) and phenols. Whole diets were designed with fermented and unfermented pea starch to assess palatability, food intake, and glycemic responses in unacclimated, mixed sex Beagle dogs and mixed breed cats (n = 8 and n = 7, respectively). For palatability testing, a control diet was formulated with 30% corn starch as well as test diets with 30% inclusion of fermented or unfermented pea starch (all lab-made), then compared to a commercial diet containing pea starch (Legacy/Horizon). Fermentation had little effect on rapidly digestible starch either in uncooked starch form or when incorporated into whole diets, but did decrease resistant starch by 15% and increase slowly digestible starch by 20%. Palatability tests using either two choices or four choices at a time revealed a significant preference for the fermented pea starch diet (p < 0.01) in both species. For the glycemic responses, a total of four different pea products were included: unfermented pea starch, fermented pea starch, and 30% inclusion of unfermented and fermented pea starch in whole formulated diets. There were no significant changes in glycemic responses with the fermented pea diet compared to the unfermented diet, demonstrating that healthful low glycemic properties of pea starch were retained after C. utilis fermentation. Overall, C. utilis-fermentation technique was successfully adapted to pea starch where it resulted in increased palatability and food intake in dogs and cats, with potential to positively contribute to overall health benefits for both species.

Impact and control of feral cats preying on wandering albatrosses: Insights from a field experiment

AbstractInvasive alien species are a major threat to seabird species, and the number of impacted species is still increasing. A recent study revealed for the first time that feral cats predated a large albatross species and that without cat control, some albatross populations would markedly decline. We examined this new predator–prey system by individually monitoring known‐age wandering albatross chicks with camera traps in a colony experimentally divided into zones with and without cat control. Our design allowed us to investigate how cat control influenced cat abundance and how this in turn influenced the probability for a chick to be predated by a cat. After cat controls, cat abundance was lower in controlled zones than in uncontrolled zones, while a survival analysis showed that the probability for a chick to die from cat predation depended on the zone but not on cat abundance. Our monitoring also provided a fine‐scale investigation of the various sources of chick mortality. In addition to cat predation (24% of mortality overall), our data documented predation by giant petrels, for the first time in Kerguelen, and revealed a strong and unexpected effect of nest flooding on chick mortality. Overall, our results underline the need for future studies investigating interindividual variability in cat diet and spatial ecology.

High starch intake favours body weight control in neutered and spayed cats living in homes fed ad libitum.

Different starch-to-protein ratios were compared among neutered and spayed domiciled cats. Male and female obese and non-obese cats were fed kibble diets ad libitum for 4 months high in starch (HS (38 % crude protein (CP)): starch 32 %, protein 38 %; DM basis) or high in protein (HP (55 % CP): starch 19 %, protein 55 %) but similar in energy and fat in a crossover design. Physical activity was evaluated using an accelerometer, and body composition (BC), energy expenditure (EE) and water turnover (WT) using the doubly labelled water method. Results were compared in a 2 diet × 2 sex × 2 body condition factorial arrangement. Cats fed the HS (38 % CP) diet maintained a constant body weight, but lean mass (LM) tended to be reduced in female obese but to be increased in male non-obese (P < 0·08) and increased in female non-obese cats (P = 0·01). The HP (55 % CP) diet induced an increase in cat body weight and LM (P < 0·05) without altering BC proportion. EE tended to be higher in males (351 (se 8) kJ/kg0·67/d) than females (330 (se 8) kJ/kg0·67/d; P = 0·06), was unaffected by diet or BC, decreased as age increased (R 2 0·44; P < 0·01) and increased as physical activity increased (R 2 0·58; P < 0·01). WT was higher for the HP (55 % CP) diet (P < 0·01) and increased with EE (R 2 0·65; P < 0·01). The HS (38 % CP) diet favoured body weight control during 4 months of ad libitum feeding. Caution is necessary to balance protein in diets of female obese cats over 5 years, as they may have low energy and food intake, with LM loss.

Duckweed protein as an alternative plant-based protein source for dog and cat dry diets.

Duckweed has attracted increasing attention as a high-quality and sustainable novel plant-based protein source. However, little research has been conducted in dogs and cats. We evaluated the effects of inclusion of duckweed protein (Lemna; MCSelect; Parabel; Vero Beach, FL) primarily in replacement of pea protein in dog diets at 0%, 5%, and 10% and cat diets at %, 10%, and 15% on stool quality, nutrient digestibility, and palatability. We hypothesized that duckweed protein would be a viable protein source in both dog and cat diets by showing no detriment to nutritional outcomes. All feeding tests were conducted at an independent research facility (Susquehanna, PA). A standard 2-bowl palatability test over a 2-d period was conducted with adult animals (n = 30 each) to determine intake ratio between test diets (duckweed-containing diets) and control diets (0% duckweed protein). Apparent total tract nutrient digestibility was conducted with 18 adult dogs and 21 adult cats (n = 6 to 7 per diet) with 5 d of diet acclimation followed by 5 d of total fecal collection. Stool quality was evaluated on a 1 to 5 scale where 1 = non-formed or diarrhea and 5 = hard, formed. Palatability data were analyzed using paired t-test (daily consumption) and chi-square test (first choice). All other data were analyzed by ANOVA and contrast (SAS version 9.4). For cats, 10% duckweed had greater (P < 0.05) palatability than control, while no difference was observed between 15% duckweed protein and control. For dogs, 5% and 10% duckweed protein had (P < 0.05) lower palatability, demonstrating a preference to control. Both cats and dogs fed duckweed diets had acceptable stool quality (Mean = 3.4 and 3.3, respectively). No detriments in nutrient digestibility were observed in dogs fed 5% and 10% duckweed protein; however, cats fed 10% and 15% duckweed protein had (P < 0.05) lower dry matter, protein, and energy digestibility vs. control. In conclusion, the data collected indicate that duckweed can be a viable replacement for other plant-based proteins in dog diets at inclusion levels up to 10%; more development is needed for duckweed protein inclusion into cat diets.