All Pet Food Industry in one place, en.Allpetfood.net

2+ MIN

09/12/2024

How To Handle And Store Pet Food

Dogs

3+ MIN

22/11/2024

Chews and treats for dogs

Veterinary

Are Homemade Diets a Viable Alternative to Prepared Pet Food?

2+ MIN

15/11/2024

Are Homemade Diets a Viable Alternative to Prepared Pet Food?

Dogs

Journal of Animal Science Publishes ADM's Canine Clinical Trial Exploring the Microbiome Effects of BPL1™

3+ MIN

12/06/2024

Next-generation foods: Microbiome, nutrition, animal health and wellbeing

By Juan Gómez Basauri, Ph.D.

The Microbiome
With this interest, the term 'microbiome' may be confusing, particularly to a person who is not a trained microbiologist. For instance, one reference may tell us that the microbiome is the complete set of microbiota (microorganisms, bacteria, fungi), its genes, and the metabolites they produce in the microenvironment in which they reside (habitat) either inside or on the body of an organism (e.g. the intestinal tract, the mouth, the skin, the reproductive system) and sometimes the term microbiome and microbiota are used interchangeably though they are different.
One way to grasp the term microbiome is by using a sports analogy. Imagine a football stadium filled with fans from diverse backgrounds and origins. Similarly, the gut microbiome (the football stadium) consists of a diverse population of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more. What's more, each fan in the stadium has their own unique characteristics and preferences, as do the different microorganisms present in the gut microbiome.
We can expand this analogy further. Inside the football stadium (the gut microbiome), fans communicate and interact with each other and with the players during the game. Similarly, the microorganisms in the microbiome communicate and interact with each other and with the host (human, dog, or cat) through chemical signals and interactions.
This communication results in a strong association between the microbiome and the health of the gastrointestinal tract and other organs such as the brain, liver, skin, and others. And just as a successful football team requires a balance between offense and defense, the microbiome relies on a delicate balance of its microorganisms to maintain health. In contrast, an imbalance or unprepared team can lead to poor performance on the field, and a disruption of the balance in the gastrointestinal tract known as dysbiosis, can lead to health problems for the host.
While there are numerous factors that influence the composition of the microbiome (e.g. host genetics, age, environment), diet plays a fundamental role in the growth and function of certain microorganisms so they can thrive in their respective niches. Nutritional intervention through diet provides a daily opportunity to enhance the health of the microbiome and ultimately the health of the host. Studies show that phyla in the gut microbiome and the composition of bacteria and microorganisms respond predictably to dietary changes – high protein diets, and different types of fiber, to mention a few - in both humans and "healthy" dogs and cats.
It is not only important to know the specific phyla and strains, but also their functionality: what types of metabolic processes take place and what metabolites are generated. Metabolites that have been extensively discussed and researched are short-chain fatty acids, butyric, propionic, and acetic acids. It's important to note that the composition of the microbiota in the intestinal tract is unique to every person, and every dog, cat, and even human also has a unique microbiota profile.
What's next: New generation of foods
For some time now, customized and personalized food has been thought of as a way to tailor dietary recommendations and optimize food choices according to an individual's unique physiological needs for health and wellbeing.
What we already know about the microbiome gives us the starting point for truly personalized nutrition. We should be able to develop personalized food with the desired nutritional outcomes for specific cases and conditions. A study of an individual's microbiome can provide insights into its unique microbial profile and provide personalized dietary recommendations to modulate the gut microbiome to improve and enhance digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health.
Modulating the gut microbiome to enhance wellbeing may seem like a tall order but discovering the secrets that the microbiome holds is key to a long and healthy life not only for our companion animals but also for us humans. By: Juan Gómez-Basauri
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

3+ MIN

20/05/2024

Carbohydrates in dog and cat food

What are dietary carbohydrates? Carbohydrates ('carbs') are a group of compounds with a common biochemical structure based on carbon (C), hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O). Carbohydrates enclose sugars, starches and dietary fibres. The simplest molecules within carbohydrates are sugars (monosaccharides and disaccharides). Longer chains and structures made of those sugars are complex carbohydrates like starches (polysaccharides) and dietary fibres (oligo and polysaccharides). Sugars and starches are called digestible carbohydrates. What is the main purpose of digestible carbohydrates in pet foods? Digestible carbohydrates are a direct source of glucose, an important source of energy for the body, and the main one for some tissues like the brain and red blood cells. When carbohydrate supply is limited, glucose can also be synthesised from proteins and other compounds. Dogs and cats have the digestive enzymes necessary to break down digestible carbohydrates into sugar units, which can be absorbed in the small bowel. An exception is milk sugar, lactose, which is not adequately digested in adulthood by majority of dogs and cats and can cause gastrointestinal upset. Starch also has important technological properties for dry kibble manufacturing, since its gelatinization is a crucial part of the extrusion process. (link to how pet food is made factsheets) Please find more information here:
FEDIAF Expert Review – Carbohydrates What about fibre? Dogs and cats do not have the enzymes capable to break the linkages between sugars in fibre; therefore, fibre cannot serve as a direct source of glucose or energy to the animal. However, once fibre reaches the large intestine, it is fermented by the microbiota (mainly bacteria and yeasts) to provide energy to bacteria and large intestinal cells. The degree of fermentability varies depending on the fibre type. Fibre has several benefits to pets. Some fermentable fibres known as prebiotic fibres promote the growth of beneficial intestinal microbiota which can help reduce harmful bacteria colonization. The fermentation products of fibre are beneficial to large intestinal cells. Non fermentable fibre promotes regular bowel movements and regulates faecal consistency. Moreover, since fibre provides almost no calories to the dog and cat, it can be used to deliver bulk and satiation for pets prone to weight gain. Most pet foods use ingredients to provide a mixture of fermentable and non-fermentable fibres, offering the benefits of both fibre types. What are the main sources of carbohydrates in pet food? The common starch sources in pet foods are cereals ('grains'), legumes and root vegetables. Starch needs to be well cooked to be properly digested and to prevent intestinal upset. Fibre is provided by ingredients such as whole grains, purified cellulose, beet or chicory pulp, psyllium seeds, fruit and vegetable fibres, inulin and FOS (fructooligosaccharides). Benefits of carbohydrates in pet food Although not an essential nutrient, digestible carbohydrates provide an easy to use source of energy and glucose, which allows for the formulation of moderate fat diets and help with formulation of low-calorie diets to help manage weight problems. It also helps to spare the use of animal protein, which is a limited resource in pet nutrition and is associated with increased carbon footprint. Dietary fibre is not an essential nutrient either, but it has multiple benefits, such as promotion of a healthy intestinal microbiota, adequate intestinal transit, and satiation. The main fibre and carbohydrates sources included in pet food also provide important essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. The optimal digestible carbohydrate and fibre intake is going to vary from pet to pet. Please consult with your veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to choose the best diet for your pet. Are carbohydrates reported on the pet food label? EU law determines the mandatory minimal nutritional information on the pet food label, listed under the heading 'analytical constituents' as grams per 100 grams of food as fed (%). This includes protein (or crude protein), fat (or crude fat), inorganic matter (or crude ash) and crude fibre; but does not include digestible carbohydrates. The crude fibre value on the label is the result of chemical analysis which underestimates the total dietary fibre content of the diet; the fibre content in the product is typically higher than reported.
For more detailed information about the carbohydrate content of a specific pet food, contact the manufacturer. For more information, visit FEDIAF HERE. Source: FEDIAF.

7+ MIN

07/05/2024

Worth begging for

Treats and chews are a hot category for pet specialty retailers catering to dog and cat owners. Pet owners want options with which they can reward their beloved animals but are often still seeking products that have added benefits or make for a healthy choice. "Over the past two years, we saw sales of collagen sticks skyrocket, but not enough to oversell bully sticks or more traditional chews," said Marcus Maximo, CMO at Natural Farm, a manufacturer based in Atlanta. "This makes me believe the trends are still on adding value to popular chews such as bully sticks, collagen or yak cheese by bringing to the market more unique shapes and size variations, combining proteins and adding flavors. Anything that brings value and quality and at the same time makes them more affordable is part of the trend." When shopping for treats and chews, Maximo said pet owners will look at how safe a product is and what benefits it might provide to their pet. Others factors include the label, how clean the ingredients are and how reliable the company is, he said. "It is always a mix between benefits and safety when shopping for treats and chews," Maximo added. Natural Farm recently introduced two products. Its Stuffed Cheek Roll is an alternative to stuffed bones, which always raise some concern as they can splinter, Maximo said. It comes in 5 to 6 inches or 9 to 10 inches and in different flavors. The second product, Power Cheese, is part of Natural Farm's Power Chew line. "It is an alternative chew to traditional yak cheese," Maximo said. "This product combines a hard cow milk cheese on the inside with beef pizzle on the outside. This is a win-win chew, packed with protein that lasts longer than traditional yak cheese. It is made by Natural Farm in our facilities in Brazil so we can guarantee quality, transparency and safety, which is something you can't find with traditional yak cheese from Nepal." There's no doubt that yak products are all the rage. Sherry Redwine, owner of Odyssey Pets, a pet store in Dallas, said that the biggest trend she's noticed is yak chews flooding the market. "It seems everyone and their yak are getting on this bandwagon," she said. "They now come in flavors too, like strawberry, pumpkin and blueberry. And, of course, collagen chews are hot hot hot—and not going away anytime soon." Redwine said she has also seen private label products gaining traction in this category. "There are now companies out there doing things on a smaller scale so that single-store independent retailers can now get in on the action," she continued. "It reinforces your brand and keeps your name top of mind with your customers." Cost is a factor in chew purchases, said Jason Ast, co-owner of Just Dog People, a pet store in Garner, N.C. Pet owners are willing to invest in a good chew, but they want to feel they are getting value out of it. "Customers are always looking for the best bang for their buck," he explained. "They want long-lasting chews that are affordable. This is definitely the No. 1 thing people are looking for when shopping for dog chews. Customers also want to know their treats or chews were made in the USA." Ast said that they've also seen a surge in puppies in their area and that many of those pet owners are looking for puppy-safe chews. "That means chews that won't cause puppy teeth to fall out prematurely, and they also want chews that won't break off and end up choking their new fur baby," Ast said. Kim McCohan, chief happiness officer at Bend Pet Express, a retailer with locations in Bend, Ore., said that any alternatives to rawhide—but that still fall into the "solo-ingredient category"—are sought after in chews. "[Earth Animal's] No-Hides are popular but due to their manufacturing process could be financially out of reach for some people," she said. "That is when many turn to cheaper collagen rolls." Alan Snyder, CEO of Frankly Pet, a manufacturer in Milwaukee, said he's noticed functional treats trending. "Everyone loves indulging their pets, but consumers are seeking products that also contain beneficial ingredients to address specific issues such as supporting dental health, mobility and joints, digestive health and more," he said. "Collagen is an ingredient that's very popular at the moment as it helps build up bones, joints and muscles in addition to supporting a healthy coat, skin and nails." Frankly Pet is introducing a new peanut butter flavor to its line of collagen rolls. Made in the USA with American-grade beef, Peanut Butter Chew Rolls feature 90 percent protein and 100 percent collagen. Amy Cairy, vice president of marketing for W.F. Young, maker of Honest to Goodness treats, noted that the emphasis on treats and chews these days is on healthy options. "We have also seen a heightened awareness of the need to 'diversify the diet' as pets, and their people, could all use more fruits and veggies in their daily lives to support overall health," Cairy continued. "This is leading to increasing demand for more plant-based treats to help pet parents add healthy and beneficial options to their treat cabinet." W.F. Young's new Honest to Goodness Plant Snacks for dogs are all-natural, plant-based treats that promote functional health and overall wellness. They are available in six recipes including Happy Feet with Apples and Cinnamon, Way to Glow with Coconut and Flax, Mellow Belly with Pumpkin and Cinnamon, Golden Years with Blueberry and Carrot, Buddy Boost with Cranberry and Pomegranate, and Good Vibes with Chamomile and Ginger. Taking stock of sales trends in the cat chews and treats category, McCohan said that thanks to TikTok and one particular cat account, their stores have seen an uptick in small dental chews. "The cat in this particular account chews hard treats, and the super-close video and sound of this act are so popular that their account has taken off," she said. Redwine noted that single-ingredient, freeze-dried meat treats that are healthy and palatable for cats remain the biggest sellers in her store. Selling more treats & chews Making smart display and marketing choices can help drive purchases of treats and chews. As there are so many options on the market, retailers can help guide pet owners toward the right choice for them. Maximo said that with so many variations, functions and benefits to offer, he recommends displaying chews on a raw bar table. "This is not a new concept, but instead, I'd group them to communicate the simplicity of what they are, their main function, their benefits and then by size recommendations," he said. As treats and chews are often an impulse buy for consumers, Cairy said she recommends creating fun displays and constantly changing them. "Adding seasonal flavors or packaging that fits your display theme can really spur purchases and a sense of discovery and newness for shoppers," she added. "For example, a 'Happy Spring' treat display could feature treats with brightly colored packaging or highlight plant-based formulas." Snyder said retailers have many options when it comes to arranging a treats and chews aisle. "Organizing the products can be done in several ways," he said. "This could be by brand, by all-natural products, by function, made in the USA, treats for training, etc. This helps optimize the shopping experience for pet parents. That said, treats and chews are often impulse purchases, so displaying treats and chews on endcaps leading up to the register can help, too." At Just Dog People, they always have Nylabones and Benebones on a visible wall area since they sell so well, Ast said. "Our body parts can be found on a central display, called the 'Body Parts Bar,' where we have 20 various chews and treats for our furry customers," he continued. "We've found that people enjoy strolling around the body parts bar while shopping—many people are amazed at some of the items for sale—duck heads, chicken feet, etc." McCohan said she tends to display chews based on category at her stores. "If they are inedible, we display those together, while the edible chews are together," she noted. "One of our locations displays all the edible chews in baskets kind of on their side and at an angle. Customers can grab what they want out of the basket but see more of each. Another location displays them in metal buckets on a pole, so there are many height offerings. I will say the location with the baskets down low allows dogs to pick what they want, and I don't think we allow that enough for our pets." To that point, Snyder added that it's advantageous to incorporate a "sampling station" in stores and rotate brands and products on a weekly or monthly basis. He summed up: "Not only would this allow customers visiting the store with their pets to try the treats before buying, but it would help further showcase the quality, texture, smell and taste of products, leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction." Source: Pet Product News.

5+ MIN

30/04/2024

The truth about Salmonella and dog food

How worried should I be about Salmonella in dog food?
It should go without saying, the presence of any pathogenic bacteria is unwelcome and, as 'pathogenic' suggests, carries risk. However, for a healthy, happy canine, Salmonella is typically a minor issue, with the majority of dogs showing few to no symptoms. The real concern lies in the possible transmission to humans, who are far more susceptible to the bacteria than their four-legged counterparts.
How does Salmonella affect dogs? Salmonella is a type of bacteria that infects the gastrointestinal tract. If present in dogs, they are usually asymptomatic unless they have an already weakened immune system or are a puppy. However, even if a dog doesn't show signs of salmonellosis — the symptomatic infection caused by Salmonella — they can still spread the disease through feces or saliva, which can infect humans. The type of Salmonella that affects dogs is more likely to affect humans as well, making it a zoonotic disease — a disease that in transmissible between animals and humans.
How do I know if my dog has Salmonella? When the disease is seen in an adult dog, they typically have another infection or health problem at the same time. However, puppies are more likely to show symptoms of the disease whether they have an underlying condition or not. Symptoms of salmonellosis include the following: Severe, sudden onset, watery diarrhea Bloody diarrhea (hematochezia) Vomiting Lethargy Fever Decreased appetite, with or without weight loss Dehydration Though rare, Salmonella can travel to the lungs, causing pneumonia, or to the reproductive tract of breeding female dogs, leading to loss of pregnancy. If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, it's important to take them to the vet and follow the recommended steps to recovery. Causes of Salmonella in dogs The most common sources of Salmonella are contaminated food, water, or the feces or saliva of an infected animal. 'Dogs can get Salmonella infection just like humans through contaminated foods,' says Laura Ward, DFA's nutritionist. 'While a healthy dog is often resilient, certain factors can increase susceptibility. Age, poor nutrition, underlying conditions such as cancer, pre-existing diseases, stress, and even antibiotic treatments are all contributors that can affect your dog's resilience against Salmonella.' Does raw feeding cause Salmonella? The ingredients used in cooked and raw pet foods have an equal probability of being contaminated with Salmonella. The cooking process and HACCP should mean that Salmonella is killed in production facilities with good hygiene and safety controls. Other means of controlling Salmonella are used in raw food processing, such as HPP. Basically, all kinds of dog food have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, and proper hygiene and handling should be carried out to avoid the spread to humans. 'Washing your hands and exercising good food hygiene is important no matter what kind of food your dog is fed,' says Laura. 'Dogs which lick their owners, especially around their faces can also mean that Salmonella can be easily transmissible to their humans. 'Dogs now live more closely with humans than they ever have before, meaning that the opportunities for Salmonella and other bacteria to be passed on are many.' Salmonella is more dangerous for you than your dog Even though your dog is the one consuming the contaminated food, people and other pets around the food can still contract the disease from exposure to contaminated food or their contaminated pets. It's extremely important to keep small children away from dog food at all times as little ones tend to put everything in their mouth. A recent report on one particular dog food recall stated that seven people were infected with Salmonella, six of whom were children one year of age or younger. How do dogs spread Salmonella? Once Salmonella gets established in the pet's gastrointestinal tract, the animal can shed the bacteria when they have a bowel movement, and the contamination can continue to spread through their feces. For this reason, it's particularly important to clean up your dog's poop in yards or parks where people or other animals may become exposed, in addition to cleaning items in the home. If you or your child show any signs of illness such as diarrhea, vomiting, extreme lethargy, or other concerning symptoms, consult your doctor and ensure all potentially contaminated areas are cleaned. What to do if your dog food has been recalled If your pet food has been recalled, stop feeding it to your dog and throw it away in a secure container where other animals cannot access it. Do not donate the food or feed it to the wildlife. It's then important to clean and disinfect all pet supplies, including all storage containers, bowls, surfaces, scoops, bedding, toys, floors, and any other surfaces that the food or dog may have had contact with. Clean up all pet feces and thoroughly wash your hands after handling the product or cleaning up potentially contaminated items or surfaces. Should I avoid a dog food brand that's been recalled for Salmonella? While you must throw out all recalled food, it isn't necessary to avoid the brand going forward, especially if it is honest and open about the contamination. It might be the case that the brand regularly and thoroughly tests for pathogens, which can be a positive sign. However, if you notice repeat cases of contamination, it may be a red flag and time for a change. How to treat your dog with Salmonella If you suspect your dog is infected with Salmonella, speak to your vet. They will likely ask what food your dog has consumed in recent days (it's a good idea to keep a note of their dog food at all times — maybe by photographing the packaging) and if they have been close to any infected animals. In most dogs who develop symptoms, providing them with plenty of fluid is usually sufficient to help their immune system fight off the infection. Treatments can include: At-home hydration Probiotics Intravenous fluids Antibiotics or steroids Blood transfusion Overall, Salmonella in dogs isn't as scary as you may think and in the rare cases where salmonellosis occurs, it's usually treatable. The majority of the time, you won't even realize if your dog has been infected and they will be able to fight off the bacteria with their healthy immune system. However, if your dog's food has been recalled or you think they are infected with Salmonella, it's essential to take precautions to stop any spread. Source: Dog Food Advisor

How to treat (and supplement) pets like part of the family

6+ MIN

26/04/2024

How to treat (and supplement) pets like part of the family

These savvy consumers increasingly seek high-quality products to support the holistic well-being of their pets. Common areas of focus include mobility and joints, dental and oral wellness, healthy ageing and general well-being. As an indicator of this mounting opportunity, functional treats for dogs and cats in the United Kingdom each have a forecasted CAGR of more than 12% through 2026.1 Pet supplements are also predicted to show steady growth, with the UK's overall pet health and supplement market estimated to grow by a CAGR of 8.6% through 2026.1 The introduction of functional treats has boosted consumer interest in the pet supplements segment. Soft chews are outpacing other pet supplement formats in terms of growth as functional treats deliver a guilt-free reward with the added advantage of wellness benefits — much like gummy supplements for humans. Flavour is key to capturing pet satisfaction: taste profiles often centre around chicken, fish and other meats, as well as fruits and vegetables. For people and their pets, fun and functional wellness products are dynamic drivers of potential. Where human and pet nutrition converge Functional ingredients that are highly popular among humans can be just as useful for their furry companions. This commonality facilitates the development of a coherent product offering for the entire family, such as microbiome solutions. Consumers worldwide are gaining awareness that the gut microbiome helps to maintain overall well-being for themselves and their pets. Prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics can all support a healthy gastrointestinal environment, as well as the skin and oral microbiomes. However, consumer understanding of biotics and which products are effective is still relatively nascent. Plus, the less information a consumer has about biotics, the less likely they are to purchase them. Remarkably, of surveyed Europeans, Polish consumers are the most knowledgeable about the gut microbiome and biotics related to cats and dogs … and 81% have purchased biotics for their pets at least once.2 Most people who purchase biotics do so because they've received a professional recommendation and want to help their pet manage a specific condition. Approximately one in three European pet owners have purchased biotics at least once a year because of a recommendation.2 In many cases, they use biotics to support their pet's digestive or gastrointestinal concerns. There is a clear opportunity for brands to help inform more consumers about the advantages of biotics in pet products. Expanding awareness through marketing and packaging, as well as veterinary advocacy, can help to increase the adoption of these wellness products. A window of opportunity Positive endorsements from a trusted source go a long way in terms of informing consumer purchasing decisions. European pet owners primarily rely on veterinarians, pet stores and websites about pets to research new foods, treats and/or supplements for their dogs and cats.2 On top of that, 95% of functional treat purchases are highly influenced by the product's attribute and primary health benefit claim.1 Consumers perceive claims such as clinically tested, scientifically studied and vet recommended as evidence of a product's effectiveness.3 And nine out of 10 European consumers say a veterinarian is their number one trusted source of information about new pet products.2 Scientifically robust benefit claims are also necessary to convince trusted key audiences such as veterinarians, pharmacists and specialist retailers that new wellness products dedicated to dogs and cats do what they say. Furthermore, compliance with European regulations is critical for successful product launches. Brands can get a running start with a white label manufacturer that offers innovative, turnkey formulations that are designed to address pet parent demands. Consumer insights show that soft chews are the clear leader as the preferred treat format in Europe, followed by sticks and biscuits.2 Toppers and mix-ins are also gaining interest. These formats currently have greater availability in the marketplace because they are easy to use and convenient for pet owners. But unique formats can also unleash opportunities; 27% of German pet owners say they would buy functional treats as a squeezable paste.2 No matter what the format is, functional products must preserve active ingredients throughout their shelf-life. Overcoming functionality challenges Soft chews are typically manufactured with classic extrusion equipment, although this high-heat process might negatively affect colours, flavours and functional ingredients. Unlike others in the industry, ADM creates turnkey and tailor-made soft chews with a cold extrusion process that omits the use of heat, water or gumming agents. This preserves the texture, flavour and beneﬁts of all the ingredients and enables suppliers to bring a superior soft chew to market. The quality and type of functional ingredients can also help to ensure they remain active during transit and storage. For example, extreme heat from extrusion and baking can diminish the efficacy of live probiotics. Postbiotics, which are a preparation of inanimate micro-organisms and/or their components, can confer a health benefit on the host despite challenging processing conditions.4 Thus, postbiotics may be a useful alternative to probiotics in certain wellness product applications. Pioneering research in pet nutrition As the field of microbiome solutions continues to mature, research regarding the use of biotics and their effects on canine health is just beginning to emerge. Sophie Nixon, PhD, Head of Clinical Research for Pet and Animal Well-Being at ADM, has overseen an exploratory, first-in-species study with adult dogs to evaluate the effects of daily supplementation of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT8145 (BPL1) in both live probiotic and heat-treated postbiotic forms.5 Data indicates that both the probiotic and postbiotic versions of BPL1 can safely be supplemented in healthy adult dogs, with changes observed in faecal short-chain fatty acids, bacterial composition and faecal metagenome (compared with controls). A further clinical study is ongoing to assess additional physiological outcomes. Additionally, inactivated Bifidobacterium longum CECT7347 (ES1) may support gut barrier function according to in vitro data.6,7 In addition, the efficacy of the live probiotic Bacillus velezensis DSM 15544 as a zootechnical additive (a gut flora stabiliser) was confirmed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).8 Pioneering science such as these trials will spur the development of pet products that feature highly sought-after wellness claims and comply with European regulations, providing consumers with trusted options to support the wellness journey of their pets.9 Evidence suggests that demand for functional pet products and supplements is growing in the European market. Half of European pet owners report purchasing functional treats at least every 2 months and approximately six in 10 consumers say they would be interested in buying some type of functional treat for their dog(s) and/or cat(s) in the future (58% of pet owners living in Germany, 60% in France and 63% in the UK and 69% in Poland).2 Microbiome solutions present an intriguing opportunity for brands to deliver on evolving pet owner demands and take advantage of an emerging product category with extensive development potential. By leveraging ADM's large portfolio of ingredients, formulation expertise, end-to-end support and ongoing clinical research, pet brands will have what it takes to gain credibility and differentiate themselves in the marketplace.
References www.euromonitor.com/pet-care-in-the-united-kingdom/report. Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (Chicago, IL, US), ADM Outside Voice, proprietary research conducted via Morning Consult (2023). https://store.mintel.com/report/americas-pet-owners-market-report-2021. https://isappscience.org/behind-the-publication-understanding-isapps-new-scientific-consensus-definition-of-postbiotics/. Manuscript undergoing peer review: BPL1® is a trademark registered for Biopolis SL in the EU and other countries. P. Martorell, et al., 'Heat-Treated Bifidobacterium longum CECT-7347: A Whole-Cell Postbiotic with Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Gut-Barrier Protection Properties,' Antioxidants 10, 536 (2021). ES1 (Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum CECT7347) is used by ADM Biopolis under license from CSIC. In the UK, this strain is named Bacillus subtilis C-3102 (DSM 15544) and, in the EU, it's named Bacillus velezensis DSM 15544. Local regulations must be reviewed to confirm the permissibility of ingredients for each category. Source: Nutraceutical.

1+ MIN

19/04/2024

LAIKA, a vet-to-vet solution for the veterinary community

Built with veterinarians for veterinarians, the project is guided by a belief in the power of AI to augment and enhance human capabilities, aiming to offer veterinarians a reliable partner in their mission to care for pets. It incorporates a sophisticated two-layer AI system, with the initial layer focusing on data-driven diagnoses and the second layer providing direct interaction capabilities. This blend of technology is designed to support veterinarians in making more accurate and efficient diagnoses. So far, LAIKA has been embraced by 104 clinics in our pilot phase (far surpassing the original target of engaging 25 clinics), underscoring the demand for such an innovative tool. Veterinarians appreciate LAIKA as their right-hand assistant—a general support for diagnoses, disease information, dosage queries, and more. It's becoming clear that LAIKA is on its way to becoming the veterinarian's best friend, enabling them to perform at 100% efficiency and beyond. LAIKA promises to redefine pet healthcare, making advanced diagnostics and care accessible to all. Future plans include expansion across Italy, France, and other EU countries shortly. For more information, visit: https://laika.aitemsolutions.com/#/home

Source: All Pet Food.

The story behind Hill’s Prescription Diet ONC Care — Nutrition designed specifically for pets with cancer

3+ MIN

01/04/2024

The story behind Hill’s Prescription Diet ONC Care — Nutrition designed specifically for pets with cancer

As part of its purpose to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets, Hill's Pet Nutrition recently launched Prescription Diet ONC Care — the first dry & wet pet food from Hill's designed specifically for pets with cancer. When Hill's Pet Nutrition debuted its Prescription Diet food 75 years ago, it became the world's first veterinarian-prepared food for the nutritional management of canine disease. Today, Hill's Pet Nutrition, a division of Colgate-Palmolive, continues its legacy of improving the health and well-being of pets with a food that's backed by science, innovation and technology. The impetus to create a food specifically for pets with cancer came from veterinarians and scientists at Hill's Pet Nutrition, who understand dogs and cats with cancer struggle to get the nutrition they need.
'One of the insights we received from veterinarians is how frustrating and debilitating cancer management is for pets and pet owners,' said Leslie Hancock, Chief Medical Officer and Worldwide Director of Clinical Nutrition Research at Hill's Pet Nutrition. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, almost half of dogs over the age of 10 will develop cancer. 'Cancer treatments often make pets feel sick, and often lose their appetite as a result,' Hancock added. 'On top of suffering from cancer, pets are also suffering nutrient deficiencies from the lack of a balanced diet.' To respond to this feedback, team members at Hill's Pet Nutrition brought their findings to the company's upstream research and innovation team, which works to find new, cutting-edge technologies that can positively impact pet health. 'And what do you know? They had already been working on technology that would improve the palatability, or preferred taste, of pet food with microbiome technology that helps address the impact cancer and treatment can have on the intestinal microbiome and stool quality,' Hancock said. By utilizing this technology and improving palatability — through the optimization of macronutrients like protein and fat, and processing the food in a robust manner — Hill's Pet Nutrition created a food that even the most unwilling of appetites, especially those of pets with cancer, would eat. 'Prescription Diet ONC Care's unique formula allows for small meals to make a big impact,' said Madison Amundson, Associate Scientist at Hill's Pet Nutrition. In February 2023, scientists at Hill's Pet Nutrition, including Amundson, published findings about Prescription Diet ONC Care's effectiveness in Veterinary Sciences, an international scientific, peer-reviewed journal. Among the results, dogs showed a high acceptance of Prescription Diet ONC Care within the first day — with continued eating enthusiasm over the next month. Though Prescription Diet ONC Care has been providing nutrition to dogs and cats for just the past six months in certain markets, members of the Hill's Pet Nutrition team have already received positive feedback. 'We underestimated its popularity and what it can be,' Hancock said, adding that veterinarians have prescribed Prescription Diet ONC Care for pets who have issues receiving a balanced diet, like those who suffer from other causes of reduced food intake (otherwise called anorexia or dysrexia). Going forward, team members at Hill's Pet Nutrition will continue studying the impact of Prescription Diet ONC Care and refining and improving the food. But this achievement hasn't been lost on the team at Hill's Pet Nutrition. 'Prescription Diet ONC Care has been a fascinating exploration into how we can take applied food science and create a diet with a positive therapeutic intent,' Hancock said. 'It just kind of gives a good overwhelming feeling that this product is finally out there to help those who really need it,' Amundson added. 'This is a new milestone in the oncology world for a food that's really designated for pets with cancer.' Hill's Pet Nutrition Prescription Diet ONC Care is now available in North America, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa and Japan. By the end of 2024, the food is expected to launch in Australia, New Zealand and Asia. Source: Colgate-Palmolive.

3+ MIN

20/03/2024

Cats’ noses appear to function like powerful aroma analysis equipment

Published in PLOS Computational Biology, the study was funded by Waltham Petcare Science Institute and led by Ohio State University, Monell Chemical Senses Center and the University of Pennsylvania. These new findings deepen our understanding of the domestic cat's enhanced sense of smell, aiding new strategies to meet cats' food preferences. Researchers created an anatomically accurate 3D computer simulation of a domestic cat's nose to understand how cats smell. They used a variety of techniques to create the simulation, including high-resolution micro-CT scans to generate an accurate model of a cat's nose. The simulation of air and odor flow through the virtual cat nose revealed similarities with a parallel coiled gas chromatograph. In basic gas chromatography, the substance being analyzed is vaporized and carried by a steady flow of gas through a tube. Different chemical components in the substance interact with the tube in distinct ways, which enables them to be separated and identified. In a cat, its complex nasal structure is made up of multiple tubes, like a parallel coiled gas chromatograph, making the process even more efficient than the basic chromatography technique. 'We have partnered with leading institutions to further understand cats' sense of smell', says Dr. Scott McGrane, sensory science expert at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute. 'Computational Fluid Dynamics (or CFD) is usually used to solve engineering questions related to how fluids flow. In our case, we have applied CFD to study airflow and how aroma compounds move through the cats' nose. Cats' noses have a complex structure that enhances their ability to smell, akin to the snail-like coiled cochlea which we know enhances hearing sensitivity'. 'This new research shows a cat's nasal structure is about 100 times more efficient in detecting aroma compounds than having a single straight tube, which most amphibians have', Dr. McGrane added. The study and findings deepen our understanding of cats' enhanced sense of smell and present the potential for future computational and behavioral studies on the palatability of cat food, including in the area of new sustainable protein sources. It's a topic we are exploring through our sensory science work, which aims to further our understanding of the sense of smell and taste in cats and dogs. Our recent research has discovered new insights into the taste perception of pets by studying the sensitivity of taste receptors using a range of approaches, including computational modelling. One study looked into bitterness and its relationship with toxicity for dogs, while another explored the kokumi taste receptor of cats, which is described as a taste enhancer rather than a taste on its own. We are committed to using scientific research to gain a better understanding of how cats and dogs experience and enjoy the food they eat. It means we can continue meeting their needs nutritionally, while at the same time ensuring they savor their meal, for happy pets, as well as healthy pets.

Source: Whaltam PetCare

Are Vegetarian Diets for Cats and Dogs Safe?

3+ MIN

11/03/2024

Are Vegetarian Diets for Cats and Dogs Safe?

A Vegetarian Diet for Cats The cat is an obligate carnivore and has highly exacting nutritional needs, for this reason we advise owners to think very carefully before providing a vegetarian diet for their cats, and to ensure they get advice from a veterinary nutritionist. There is some commercial 'complete' vegetarian cat food available on the market. If a cat owner is intending to feed one of these products, we would recommend the owner discusses this option with their vet in the context of the individual needs of their cat. Cats have high requirements for protein and amino acids which their bodies breakdown very rapidly. If resources run low they're unable to reduce the rate of breakdown which makes them particularly sensitive to deficiencies. The particular importance of taurine (an amino acid exclusively found in animal-based proteins) in cat nutrition is well documented. It is an essential nutrient for cats and deficiency can lead to blindness and/or heart failure. Cats have minimal ability to synthesise sufficient taurine to meet their needs and therefore require a dietary supply which is found exclusively in animal derived materials. Whilst synthetic supplements are available, these can vary in bioavailability and there is no margin for error. Arachidonic acid (an essential fatty acid) is another example of a nutrient required by cats only available from animal sources, along with preformed vitamin A (retinol) as cats cannot utilise sufficient quantities from the pro-vitamin A of vegetables. Cats also need to sustain good levels of vitamin B12 found naturally in meat. A Vegetarian Diet for Dogs Dogs are omnivores and can adapt to a well-balanced vegetarian diet. There is a wider range of commercially prepared 'complete' vegetarian dog foods available and for the majority of owners this is the safest way to feed a vegetarian diet. Once again, we advise that these feeding options are discussed with the vet or animal nutritionist. Vegan diets for Pets Vegan foods (no animal products) should be carefully checked by a vet or animal nutritionist as they may be deficient in arginine, lysine, methionine, tryptophan, taurine, iron, calcium, zinc, vitamin A and some B vitamins2,3. Meticulous attention to detail would be needed to assure nutritional adequacy and palatability. Home Prepared Vegetarian Diets for Cats and Dogs Studies have shown that nutritional errors are commonplace in many homemade diets1; providing a nutritionally balanced, homemade vegetarian diet is a complicated task that would require meticulous planning and a specific formulation from a vet or animal nutritionist – particularly for cats. A survey of 86 vegetarian dogs in Germany, Switzerland and Belgium found that over 50% of the dogs were fed diets deficient in protein, essential amino acids, calcium, zinc and vitamins D and B122. Dietary deficiencies can have a significant impact on long term health and well-being.
Source: FEDIAF 1 University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine 'Homemade dog food recipes can be a risky business, study finds' (15 July 2013) 2 A Field Study on the Nutrition of Vegetarian Dogs and Cats in Europe. Jan 1998-Dec 1999. E. Kienzle, R Engelhard. 2 Dwyer JT. Nutritional consequences of vegetarianism. Annual reviews of nutrition 1991: 11: 61-69. 3 McDonald P, Edwards RA, Greenhalgh JFD, et al. Evaulation of foods – protein. In: Animal Nutrition, 5th ed. Harlow (Essex), UK: Longman Scientific and Techincal, 1995.

3+ MIN

28/11/2023

What to Know About the Mysterious Respiratory Illness Affecting Dogs

A mysterious respiratory illness that has been sickening dogs continues to spread across the United States while veterinarians try to determine its causes and the best methods for treating it. The symptoms are similar to kennel cough, an upper respiratory infection, but can last much longer and, in some cases, prove fatal, according to veterinarians. Here is what we know: What are the symptoms? The infected dogs develop a cough, fever, lethargy and intermittent loss of appetite. While infected, some dogs will develop pneumonia. Veterinarians have reported seeing blue and purple gums in those cases. Dogs with kennel cough may show some of these symptoms, such as coughing, lack of appetite, fever and lethargy. If it's kennel cough, the symptoms usually clear up in one to three weeks. With the latest respiratory illness, however, veterinarians are reporting that dogs can have symptoms for six weeks or more. Where has this been reported? The illness has been found in at least seven states: Colorado, Massachusetts, Oregon, Rhode Island, Illinois, Maryland and Wyoming. It's unclear how many dogs in total have been infected, because there is no official count of the cases. The cause is not clear It's unclear what causes the illness. Researchers are still running tests to learn more about the illness. There is some disagreement on whether the illness is caused by a virus or by bacteria. Dr. David Needle, senior veterinary pathologist at the New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory of the University of New Hampshire, said that he believed the illness was being caused by a bacteria, based on what he had seen in his area. Some veterinarians in Oregon hypothesize that it could be viral, because the dogs they have treated have not responded to antibiotics. 'I'm open to it being either, and I'm open to it being something we're not even thinking about,' said Dr. Kurt Williams, director of the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University's Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine. Researchers strongly agree that dogs are most likely to develop the illness when they have been around other dogs. Dr. Lindsey Ganzer, a veterinarian and the chief executive at North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs, Colo., said that all of the dogs she had treated for the illness had spent time in places with high concentrations of dogs, such as boarding facilities, doggy day care centers or dog parks. Dr. Ganzer said she feared that veterinarians might see an increase in cases as more owners board their dogs or send them to day care during the holidays. 'We're really hoping just with getting the word out there that people are less inclined to do that,' she said. 'The veterinary community as a whole is kind of scared.' What should owners do? Don't panic, and isolate your dog if it is showing symptoms. Dr. Stephen Kochis, the chief medical officer for the Oregon Humane Society, said he did not want people to be alarmed by the new illness, because the overall number of dogs with respiratory illnesses had not increased. If dogs are showing symptoms, there are steps owners can take to be proactive, he said. 'All of us have gone through Covid,' he said. 'I would say if your dog is showing signs of respiratory disease, isolate them in the home, call your vet, get them seen.' Source: The New York Times

4+ MIN

19/10/2023

Survey Reveals Impact of Excess Weight for Dogs – and Their Owners

ST. LOUIS — A new survey from Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets found that excess physical weight in dogs carries an emotional weight for owners, and that many owners view their dogs as thinner than they really are. Results showed that approximately one in five dog-owning households consider one or more of their dogs to be overweight, according to a press release. However, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, the number of overweight dogs in the U.S. has reached a record high, with 59% of evaluated dogs either overweight (37%) or having obesity (22%). The Pro Plan Veterinary Diets survey was released on Oct. 11 – National Pet Obesity Awareness Day – and included more than 600 U.S. dog owners who identified their dog as overweight. It highlighted the physical and emotional factors contributing to excess weight and how these hinder dog owners from helping their pets. 'Dogs do not always gain excess weight due to a lack of care from their owners,' said APOP President Ernie Ward, DVM. 'If anything, an overweight dog may be a sign that the owner cares too much about their dog's happiness. But while it's often said that 'food is love,' feeding a pet too much could lead to an overall reduced quality of life.' More from the release: The Emotional Impact of Excess Weight The new survey revealed that excess weight gain in pets can be related to the emotions owners experience around feeding and treating: -75% of surveyed owners agreed they feel guilty when their dogs appear hungry. -67% agreed food is a primary source of their dog's happiness. -67% agreed they bond with their dog by feeding him/her treats and don't want to lose that bond. -54% agreed they feed their dog more food, table scraps or treats when their pet begs for them. Despite their fears about losing the bond with their dogs, 88% of surveyed owners whose dogs are overweight agreed their pets' body condition does concern them and 92% agreed that weight loss would be beneficial. These beliefs may be fueled by weight-related behavior changes in their pet that can impact the owner: -92 percent of surveyed owners agree they are sad when their dog can't participate in activities they previously enjoyed when their weight was ideal. -45% indicate their dog has less energy for playtime, 44% say their dog tires easily after minimal activity and 27% say their dog is less engaged or playful with their families. 'The results show that many owners of overweight dogs feel conflicted about what quality of life means for their pets,' said Jason Gagné, DVM, DACVIM (Nutrition), Director of Veterinary Communications for Pro Plan Veterinary Diets. 'While owners recognize that excess weight is keeping their dogs from participating in activities they once enjoyed, they also worry their dogs will be unhappy if feeding changes are made.' What Can Owners Do? Many surveyed owners have tried to help using DIY slimming strategies but were met with limited success. According to the survey, the most common weight-loss approaches tried by owners are reducing portions of existing food, cutting back on treats and increasing exercise, yet 68% of owners who tried these strategies stated their dogs lost only a little weight or no weight at all. 'Understanding the significance of this issue is the first step towards a healthy future for our pets,' said Gagné. 'The second is working closely with your veterinarian to create a weight loss plan that will work for you AND your pet – including the right nutrition, which can make a big difference. Pro Plan and Pro Plan Veterinary Diets offer a range of formulas, like OM Metabolic Response + Joint Mobility, specifically designed to help pets lose body fat while maintaining lean muscle mass.' It's also important to think about weight before it becomes a problem. In a 14-year study published in 2002, Purina scientists were the first to show the importance of keeping dogs at an ideal body condition throughout their lives3. Researchers monitored the health of 48 Labrador Retrievers throughout their lives during which half the dogs were fed 25% less (restricted-fed) than their full-fed (control) siblings. The results showed that feeding dogs to an ideal body condition over a lifetime can significantly extend a dog's healthy years – by an average of 1.8 years for the dogs in the study. If you have concerns about your pet's weight, talk to your veterinarian. To learn more about weight management support and Pro Plan Veterinary Diets, visit proplanvetdirect.com. About the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2005 with the primary mission of preventing and treating pet obesity. APOP conducts research to substantiate pet obesity prevalence levels in the United States and offers resources and tools to veterinarians and pet parents to recognize, prevent, and treat pet obesity. By Neslé Purina

How Long Can Your Always-Hungry Cat Wait For Dinner?

5+ MIN

07/09/2023

How Long Can Your Always-Hungry Cat Wait For Dinner?

Many cats put on Oscar-worthy performances to convince their parents they are constantly starving. Often, they start with jumping on your head at 4 a.m., perhaps followed by biting your toes, stealthily pushing priceless breakables off the counters, or pacing in front of their bowls and yowling nonstop. But how can you tell if your cat is really getting enough to eat, and how long can they reasonably wait for their next meal? There are a number of factors that need to be considered to answer these questions. For starters, how old your cat is, the kind of foods your cat eats, and any health conditions your cat has can all influence how often your cat needs to eat. For example, there are big differences in the nutritional needs of growing kittens and pregnant cats, compared to adult cats who are mostly sedentary indoors. It is always best to consult your veterinarian and defer to their recommendations when it comes to the particular nutritional needs of your cat. Here are some general guidelines that may help. How long can your cat wait between meals? The short answer is that it depends. And no one knows exactly. Wild felines who hunt need to eat many small meals throughout the day but may also go long stretches without food. On average, hunting cats eat about eight to 10 small prey a day, so they spend the majority of their waking time stalking, chasing, and hunting in order to meet their dietary needs. For our pet cats who spend most of their time lounging indoors, they tend to burn many fewer calories and have access to higher quality diets. Their needs for food are quite different. Studies have shown that cats' stomachs empty between four to eight hours after a meal, depending on what they eat. So, while your cat may be able to go up to eight hours between meals, most nutritionists recommend feeding many small, frequent meals throughout the day to attain the best physical and mental health for your cat. So, if you're planning to go out of town, it's important that you instruct your cat sitter as to how often your particular cat needs to eat. Do different foods affect hunger differently? What you feed your cat may affect how often they need to eat and how quickly they become hungry after a meal. Some factors that influence this include protein content, fiber content, and whether you feed a dry kibble versus canned wet food. In cats, protein content influences their satiety, or feeling of fullness, the most. A high-protein diet may keep a healthy cat feeling full the longest. Some cats should not have high-protein diets, such as those with kidney disease, so make sure to speak with your vet before switching to a high-protein diet. Fiber is also known to play a role in feelings of fullness and to slow down the emptying of the stomach and intestines. This seems to play a smaller role in cats, compared to humans or dogs. Commercial high-fiber cat diets have not been shown to significantly affect fullness in cats, but certain fiber supplements containing inulin do seem to have more of an effect. As always, consider these supplements after consulting with your veterinarian to make sure it is safe and appropriate for your cat. Be aware that adding too much fiber or introducing it too suddenly can lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea and diarrhea. When it comes to keeping cats full, there is some evidence that kibble actually stays in the stomach longer than wet food, which may keep them feeling full longer. The debate over feeding dry food versus canned food is endless, and there are many valid reasons to choose one over the other. In general, canned food tends to have higher water content, which is very important for keeping cats hydrated. Canned food usually has a pureed consistency, which may cause it to be digested more quickly and easily. In most cases, cats should not eat dry food exclusively for overall good health, but there may be strategic ways to incorporate small amounts of dry food into your cat's diet. How can you keep your cat from constantly crying for food? Depending on your cat's particular life stage and health, there are many ways to help them feel satisfied while allowing you to get some sleep, too. For kittens and pregnant cats that need to eat frequently, a timed feeder may be a good option to provide snacks overnight and in the early morning. Remember that these feeding devices are not usually recommended for cats in other life stages because they can lead to overeating and risk of obesity. For adult cats, food puzzles are a great way to provide smaller, frequent meals while improving your cat's activity level and mental enrichment. These can be homemade or commercially available puzzle-style feeders that require your cat to 'work' for their food. It slows them down and allows them to snack gradually and also gives them a challenge to figure out how to get the food out. The simplest form of a food puzzle would be just hiding kibble around the room for your cat to seek out. More complex puzzles are also available in a variety of styles. In general, providing smaller, frequent meals may help your cat to feel more satisfied and for those cats that have no health concerns, adding a little extra fiber and higher protein content may also keep them feeling full longer. Look for these signs of actual starvation or illness in cats. It is important to note that cats cannot safely skip several meals in a row. This is especially serious for young kittens, pregnant cats, cats with underlying health problems, and overweight and obese cats. If your cat skips multiple meals, it is a sign of illness, and they should be seen by a veterinarian right away. It is also not safe to intentionally skip feedings as a weight-loss strategy. Overweight cats are prone to a condition called hepatic lipidosis, aka fatty liver, that can be triggered by skipping meals. For this reason, it is critical to follow your vet's recommendations on feeding guidelines, especially if you are trying to encourage your cat to reach a healthy weight. by Dr. Amy Fox, DVM

2+ MIN

02/07/2023

Immunological disease, reproductive issues more common in purebred cats

Purebred cats are more likely to experience reproductive issues, heart disease, and surgical complications as compared to mixed-breed felines. This is according to a Morris Animal Foundation-funded study, published by researchers from the University of Guelph (U of G) in Canada. To identify the difference in disease risk between purebred cats and their domestic crossbreed counterparts, the research team examined the records of approximate 550,000 cats, collected by Agria Pet Insurance Company in Sweden. The data encompassed information from insurance policies and claims, along with the cats' breed, age, and sex. The study revealed that purebred cats, compared to domestic cross breeds, were more likely to develop diseases in most disease categories, including: Female reproductive issues Heart disease Complications from surgery Lower respiratory infections Immunological diseases 'This study's findings provide important insight for cat owners, veterinarians, breeders, and researchers, offering a comparative look at disease patterns in purebred cats versus mixed-breed cats,' says Barr Hadar, DVM, one of the paper's authors. Surprisingly, though, the study found domestic crossbred cats were more likely to develop endocrine, skin, and mobility issues than purebred cats, Morris Animal Foundation reports. 'One of the potential explanations for this finding is that domestic cats might have greater access to the outdoors, leading to more injuries, skin, and locomotive issues because they're outside jumping and running around,' Dr. Hadar says. Researchers are currently analyzing the dataset to develop predictive models with the aim of implementing them in a clinical setting to forecast the likelihood of specific diseases in cats. 'Information on feline disease frequency and risk is a valuable tool that can help guide clinical decision-making, assist in monitoring and planning of breeding programs, educate cat owners, and prioritize research,' Dr. Hadar says. 'A more granular look into specific causes of morbidity would be beneficial.' The findings have been published in VetRecord.

Interactions between Mycotoxins: Additivity, Synergism and Antagonism

3+ MIN

19/05/2023

Interactions between Mycotoxins: Additivity, Synergism and Antagonism

In animal production and pets, the clinical signs of mycotoxicosis in the field can rarely been explained by the very low levels of mycotoxins present in the feed. However, the combination of mycotoxins can have a double effect as high as when those toxins are presented individually. Despite the magnitude of this challenge, the literature on the combination of toxins is still limited, especially with regards of trichothecenes (Pedrosa, 2010). The combination of several mycotoxins leads to the formation of different interactions that can be additive, synergistic or antagonistic (Greco et.al, 2014). It should be noted that the type of interaction varies depending the animal species, sex, age, mycotoxin dosage, duration, nutritional status of the animals and the route of exposure to the mycotoxin (Gruber, Jenkins, & Shatzmayr, 2019). Additivity Additivity refers to the effect of the combination of mycotoxins being the same as the sum of the individual effect of each toxin. When the combination of mycotoxins presents the effect of the most toxic mycotoxin without the effect of the other mycotoxin, the term 'less additive' is used (Smith et.al, 2016). Some examples of mycotoxin combinations that exhibit additivity include Aflatoxin B1+ Ochratoxin A, Aflatoxin B1+ Toxin T-2, Aflatoxin B1+ Fumonisin B1, Ohcratoxin A+ Toxin T-2, DON+Fumonisin B1, Moniliformin+Fumonisin, Moniliformin+ DON, Fumonisin B1+ Diacetoxyscirpenol and Fumonisin B1+ Toxin T-2 (Aihelen, 2021). Antagonism Antagonism refers to the combination of mycotoxins having a lesser effect than the sum of the individual effects of the toxins (Smith et al., 2016). In other words, the concept of antagonistic effect applies when the toxicity of one compound is used independently of the toxicity of the other compound (Ruiz, Macakova, Garcia, & Font, 2011). It has been reported that the combination of DON and zearalenone has an antagonistic effect on immune function in pigs. Similarly, the same antagonistic effect was reported in mice, but on liver health and metabolism (Gruber, Jenkins, & Shatzmayr, 2019). Sinergism Synergism between mycotoxins is defined as the toxic effect exerted by the combination of various mycotoxins at certain concentrations that is greater than the sum of the effects of each mycotoxin when presented individually (Gimeno & Lígia, 2011). In other words, synergism is when the observed effect of the combination of mycotoxins is more than what is expected based on the effects of each mycotoxin. When one or more mycotoxins do not induce an effect while the combination does have a significant effect it is called potentiation, although this term is rarely used (Smith et.al, 2016). Synergism increases the toxic effects of mycotoxins, and some of the synergistic actions are presented by aflatoxins with ochratoxin or aflatoxins with T-2 toxin (Greco, Franchi, Rico, Pardo, & Pose, 2014). In Fusarium-derived mycotoxins, most interactions range from additive to synergistic, affecting mortality, animal growth, and feed intake. Several reports indicate synergistic interactions of deoxynivalenol with fusaric acid, DON with fumonisin B1, or even diacetoxyscirpenol and aflatoxins. (Pedrosa, 2010) The challenge of the interaction between mycotoxins in animal production Nowadays, most of the studies on the combination of mycotoxins in animal nutrition are conducted in vitro using cellular models instead of animal models. There is a huge diversity of interactions that mostly have additive or synergistic effects, and given the complexity of the mycotoxin mixture, their combined toxicity is difficult to predict. The toxic effects presented by cells vary according to: cell type, exposure time, mycotoxin concentration, tests used, and statistical models. With these mentioned factors, the mycotoxin combination undoubtedly represents a threat to human and animal health since the toxicity of each combination will be different for each contaminated feed; not to mention that mycotoxins when combined can generate a toxic effect, even if they are present at low concentrations (Smith et al., 2016). Finally, there is a lack of studies that address topics such as exposure to sub-toxic concentrations of mycotoxins from multi-contaminated feed, as it is a more realistic scenario for food and feed consumption. by Bionte Technical Department All Pet Food

1+ MIN

29/04/2023

World Vet Day

The importance of Vets
World Vet Day recognizes the essential and varied work that they do around the world. Those who have a pet at home, which is consider a member of the family, understand the work that Veterinary Clinics do to keep our animals healthy. Vets are essential in helping us to take care ours pets in the same way that we deal with our own health. Socially, they also do important work in every community, rescuing stray animals, running sterilization programs to reduce the number of them, and running free vaccination campaigns to prevent the transmission of dangerous diseases. On the other hand, another great contribution that Vets make to the pet food industry is writing investigative articles to improve the pet food formulation and as a way to prevent typical diseases of each breed, age, weight, etc.
The much-mentioned "Humanization of pets" requires that pet food not only provides animals needs, but also convince its owner that they have made the right choice. In All Pet Food we value the job that Vets do for our companion animals, who play an important role in each home. As well as those who share technical articles so that our readers have information to make better decisions to feed and improve their pets lives. Source: All Pet Food

2+ MIN

28/02/2023

Gluttony and Dogs

We are going to start this article by defining the term gluttony, it comes from the Latin gluttire, which means to swallow food excessively or without measure. The biggest problem lies in the harmful consequences that obesity has on the health of our pets, the most frequent being joint, cardiovascular and endocrine diseases. An obese dog is a reflection of a sick dog, which translates into a poor quality of life and a decrease in life expectancy. Generally, weight gain is due to an imbalance between energy intake and use, always associated with sedentary behaviors. It is vitally important to take our dog's diet into account in the early stages of development, an obese puppy will be an obese adult dog. If, on the contrary, we maintain an adequate feeding routine, if we supply a balanced and good quality diet, adjusting the dose to the age and weight of our pet, the chances of our puppy being an obese dog will decrease significantly. Exercise will be an inevitable discipline in the life of our dogs and, like the diet, it must be adjusted to the stage and condition of the animal. Ideally, to control your pet's gluttony, we recommend incorporate feeding schedules, teach him to remain calm at mealtime and if you see him agitated or anxious, wait until he is calm to feed him. If the problem is they eat very anxiously and/or quickly, you can use a special type of dish for these cases, which prevents the pet from taking large amounts of food to its mouth at the same time. Ask your trusted veterinarian the tools that make it easier for you to control your pet's gluttony. by Vitalcan Source: All Pet Food

UK to tackle Salmonella risks in raw pet food

2+ MIN

17/01/2023

UK to tackle Salmonella risks in raw pet food

All six projects involve academic researchers collaborating with commercial companies and/or government agencies within the human and pet food sectors to establish solutions to common food safety issues. Established in 2022 by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), The UK Food Safety Network strives to tackle challenges associated with food safety and prevent food poisoning throughout the United Kingdom. The network brings together various food industries, policymakers, researchers and academics to pursue research and create innovations to protect the country from foodborne illnesses. The raw pet food project involves using bacteriophages to help decrease Salmonella contamination in raw pet food products. According to the Quadram Institute, raw pet foods are growing in popularity throughout the United Kingdom as pet parents seek non-processed diets to improve their pets' health. However, raw pet foods can carry higher risk of contamination compared to their cooked counterparts. To prevent pathogenic contamination, Rob Kingsely, a professor at Quadram Institute, will partner with a raw pet food manufacturer and use funding from the UK Food Safety Research Network to establish a method of reducing Salmonella risks associated with raw formulas. Kingsley will utilize a mixture of bacteriophages, natural killers of bacteria, in the processing of raw pet food diets to safely reduce the occurrence of Salmonella. According to Quadram Institute, if the bacteriophage method shows promise in pet food, the findings could also be applied to other food products. 'We're delighted to be able to support these highly innovative projects and get them off the ground,' said Matt Gilmour, group leader and network director at Quadram Institute. 'As well as ensuring consumers have the safest possible food choices, these projects also support sustainable economic growth and we look forward to seeing the technology they develop being deployed in the next few years.' By Nicole Kerwin

Active ingredient shows promise in managing canine arthritis

3+ MIN

16/01/2023

Active ingredient shows promise in managing canine arthritis

MYOS Corp. produces human and pet products that seek to improve muscle health and overall performance. The company's active ingredient Fortetropin has been clinically proven to help increase muscle size, support lean body mass and reduce muscle atrophy. The ingredient is made from fertilized chicken egg yolks and produced using a patented process. Fortetropin is included in MYOS's Yolked® product brand, Canine Muscle Formula® line and Feline Formula. The new, peer-reviewed study was published in the Canadian Veterinary Journal and included 46 dogs. It examines the impact Fortetropin has on overall mobility and quality of life in geriatric dogs with arthritis, as well as the role muscle atrophy plays in the progression of osteoarthritis in dogs. According to MYOS, 95% of dogs, five years old and older, experience osteoarthritis, which can cause pain and lead to decreased mobility. In studies on humans and dogs, Fortetropin has shown to help accelerate muscle tissue gain. 'From a nutritional standpoint, veterinarians address canine osteoarthritis primarily by prescribing the glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate to repair and regenerate cartilage that has been damaged,' said Joseph Mannello, chief executive officer of MYOS. 'We believe that strengthening the quadricep muscles in dogs with osteoarthritis can be a powerful approach to managing canine osteoarthritis. For this reason, Fortetropin supplementation can play a complementary role with glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate supplementation in terms of managing canine osteoarthritis. 'Typically, dogs with osteoarthritis are also managed in part with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs),' he added. 'Long-term NSAID use is associated with damage to the kidneys and liver. Fortetropin supplementation may enable veterinarians to reduce the dose of NSAIDs needed to manage osteoarthritic dogs.' In the KSU study, half (23) of the dogs received Fortetropin and the other half received a placebo. Dog owners completed a Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD) questionnaire that measures general mobility and exercise capabilities in dogs. The study concluded that the dogs fed Fortetropin experienced a 'significant' decrease in LOAD scores, from p=0.0261 at week six to p=0.0040 at week 12. According to the study, the drop in scores indicates the reduced severity of canine osteoarthritis. The placebo group experienced no significant decrease in scores during the same period. 'Osteoarthritis is a painful condition that is very common in geriatric dogs,' said Kenneth R. Harkin, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM), professor and section head, KSU. 'Typically, dogs with osteoarthritis are managed with NSAIDs, but these do not address the muscle loss of geriatric dogs that compounds the loss of mobility with osteoarthritis. These encouraging results with Fortetropin suggest that geriatric dogs with limited mobility may have another option.' Following this latest study, Fortetropin is now back by seven peer-reviewed publications. This study is the fifth of MYOS's randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies, three of which have been completed on humans and two on pets. 'Osteoarthritis in dogs is one of the most common orthopedic conditions seen in veterinary practice,' said Michael H. Jaffe, DVM, MS, CCRP, DACVS, associate professor at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. 'Multimodal management, with few surgical options, is the mainstay of its treatment. To combat the ongoing problem of generalized muscle atrophy due to aging and reduced pet mobility, the KSU researchers focused on an aspect of treatment that has largely been minimally addressed. To minimize sarcopenia, and thus improve patient mobility, treatment by reduction of serum myostatin levels with Fortetropin showed promise compared to a nutritionally similar control. 'Based on studies such as this, it is my opinion that use of products that inhibit myostatin levels to reduce sarcopenia, such as Fortetropin, should be considered a valuable component of multimodal management for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis,' he added. Source: Pet Food Processing

3+ MIN

19/12/2022

FDA Approves First Oral Treatment for Cats with Diabetes Mellitus

Bexacat (bexagliflozin tablets) is also the first sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor new animal drug approved by the FDA in any animal species. An SGLT2 inhibitor is not insulin and is not for use in cats with the type of diabetes mellitus that requires insulin treatment. The labeling for Bexacat includes a boxed warning regarding the critical need for appropriate patient selection and the potential for certain severe adverse reactions. As with people, the cells of a cat's body need sugar in the form of glucose for energy. Cats with diabetes mellitus cannot properly produce or respond to the hormone insulin, which helps cells use glucose as a source of energy for normal function. Without treatment, cats with diabetes mellitus will have high levels of glucose in their blood and urine. The first symptoms of diabetes mellitus are usually increased thirst and urine output, weight loss, and increased appetite. Diabetes mellitus in cats often requires lifelong therapy. Cats with diabetes mellitus have been traditionally treated with a combination of insulin therapy and diet. Insulin therapy requires owners to administer insulin injections, usually twice a day, roughly 12 hours apart at the same time each day. Bexagliflozin, the active ingredient in Bexacat, prevents the cat's kidneys from reabsorbing glucose into the blood, causing excess glucose to be passed out in the urine and resulting in lowered blood glucose. Bexacat is given to cats orally once daily via a flavored tablet. Although there are notable safety concerns with the use of Bexacat, they can be mitigated by carefully screening cats before starting the drug, continued diligent monitoring regardless of the duration of or response to treatment, and knowing how to promptly recognize and appropriately treat serious and life-threatening adverse reactions. The data from two 6-month field studies and an extended use field study demonstrated that Bexacat was over 80 percent effective in improving glycemic control in cats with diabetes mellitus. However, potential patients must be selected carefully and screened to evaluate for kidney, liver and pancreatic disease, as well as ketoacidosis (a high level of a type of acids, known as ketones, in the blood). Bexacat should not be used in cats who have previously been treated with insulin, are receiving insulin treatment, or who have insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, as serious adverse reactions can occur. Bexacat should not be initiated in cats who are not eating well, dehydrated, or lethargic when diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Cats treated with Bexacat may be at an increased risk of serious adverse reactions, including diabetic ketoacidosis or euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be fatal. Cats with diabetic ketoacidosis or euglycemic ketoacidosis should be treated as emergencies, including discontinuation of Bexacat and initiation of insulin therapy. All cats who receive Bexacat should be examined and have blood tests at regular intervals following initiation of treatment. Cats should be carefully monitored for lack of appetite, lethargy, dehydration, and weight loss. Cat owners who note any of these signs should stop Bexacat treatment and immediately take the cat to a veterinarian, who should assess the cat for diabetic ketoacidosis or euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis. Clients whose cats receive Bexacat should receive a Client Information Sheet informing them of the potential risks associated with Bexacat treatment, signs to watch for, and what to do if their cat becomes symptomatic. There will also be educational outreach to veterinarians to familiarize them with the appropriate use of the product. The outreach and materials will be available so veterinarians can learn about the product before prescribing its use. As with all new animal drugs, veterinarians and clients should report any adverse events to the sponsor, which is required to provide those reports to the FDA. Veterinarians and clients may also report directly to the FDA. Bexacat oral tablets are administered to cats weighing 6.6 pounds (3.0 kg) or greater once daily, at approximately the same time each day, with or without food and regardless of blood glucose level. Bexacat is supplied in 15mg flavored tablets in 30 and 90-count bottles.Bexacat is sponsored by Increvet Inc., based in Boston, Massachusetts. By FDA - USD Food & Dugs Administration

Gut Feelings: How to Balance Your Pet’s Microbiome

5+ MIN

18/11/2022

Gut Feelings: How to Balance Your Pet’s Microbiome

Over the past few years, no connection — with the expectation of maybe Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski — has gotten as much attention as the one between your mind and gut. Not unlike the championship duo, each heightens the wealth of the other, as well as the success of their system. If you've ever had a 'gut feeling' or felt butterflies in your stomach, you've experienced a limited version of this relationship. Inside every stomach is a mini-ecosystem — trillions of microbes and healthy bacteria that live in your gut producing neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA — that plays a key role in physical and mental health by regulating mood and cognition. However, the organic phenomenon that is the 'gut microbiome' is not reserved for solely humans — your pet endures the same subtle experience within their body every day as you do. Trillions more organisms (including bacteria, viruses, and fungi) also call your pet's digestive tract home, working away to break down food and generate essential nutrients. 'The sheer number of organisms in a healthy gut is tremendous; any one of us has more organisms living in our GI tract than there are people on the face of the earth,' says Dr. Audrey Cook, a professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. 'Although we used to think that those bacteria were just along for the ride, we now know that they play a key role in maintaining health.' Scientists have yet to discover the gut microbiome's full impact, but they do know that it plays a large role in a pet's overall health and well-being, impacting GI tract function, nutrient absorption, immune status, body condition, and many important hormonal responses. What is Intestinal Dysbiosis? A healthy pet's microbiome can be compared to an ecosystem, such as a coral reef or rainforest, where organisms work both independently and in relationship with each other. Unfortunately, many things can disrupt this complex system of microorganisms. When that happens, it's called dysbiosis. In simple terms, dysbiosis occurs when a cat or dog's gut microbiome becomes imbalanced due to the loss of beneficial bacteria or the emergence of bad bacteria. 'These disruptors include many medications, particularly antibiotics; infection with GI tract pathogens; changes in diet; anesthesia; stress; and starvation,' says Dr. Cook. 'It can take a long time for the microbiome to return to normal after an upset.' Over-treatment with antibiotics is one of the most common causes of intestinal dysbiosis in pets. Dr. Robynne Chutkan, one of the leading gastroenterologists in the country and the author of The Microbiome Solution, shares these concerns. 'The public still sees antibiotics as the life-saving miracle workers they were in the first part of the last century, not as the overprescribed menace they're becoming,' she says. 'We're seeing the emergence of new 'modern plagues,' not just from infection, but from not enough microbes.' The consequences of dysbiosis go beyond the gut. Health conditions linked to changes in the microbiome span the body and include allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, diabetes, and kidney disease. Though the full impact of dysbiosis is still unknown, there are a variety of symptoms that can occur because of the condition. 'Dysbiosis in pets can result in weight loss, bloating, flatulence, poor appetite, and changes in stool consistency, such as diarrhea,' says Dr. Cook. 'Some research in other species suggests that an abnormal microbiome may also contribute to numerous non-GI disorders, including obesity, mental illness, and type 2 diabetes.' Finding the Right Balance for Your Pet To avoid the effects of an unbalanced microbiome, there are several ways for pet parents to foster a healthy community of gut microorganisms in their pets. 1. Limit unnecessary antibiotics. Both Dr. Cook and Dr. Chutkan recommend avoiding the unnecessary use of antibiotics, because even a short course of antibiotics can have a big impact on their gut microbiome. Antibiotics are prescribed to kill bad bacteria that cause illness or infection, but they also kill good gut bacteria in the process. 'Dogs tend to go easy on the hand sanitizer and antibiotics and eat a less processed diet (all habits worth emulating),' says Dr. Chutkan. Ask plenty of questions and follow your veterinarian's recommendations. 2. Nutrition is key. The food choices you make as a pet parent can have a huge impact on your pet's health. Commercial dog and cat foods contain the essential nutritional building blocks of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, but there are a plethora of superfoods that can give your pet an added health boost. 'Feeding a consistent, high-quality diet is also helpful, and we certainly want to avoid introducing pathogens such as Salmonella by feeding [certain] raw foods,' notes Dr. Cook. 3. Probiotics offer benefits. Probiotics are live, good microorganisms found in some foods and supplements that can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome. Some ways probiotics can improve your pet's well-being include: Aiding digestion Boosting the immune system Preventing and managing diarrhea Promoting overall intestinal health Reducing inflammation Adding 'good' bacteria Many pet products claim to contain probiotics, but pet parents should consult with a veterinarian before choosing one of these options, as some are poorly researched. Similarly, some commercial pet foods contain prebiotics, such as soluble fibers that feed good bacteria, but there is only limited evidence of these foods effectively improving the health of the gut microbiome. 4. Live dirty and skip the groomers. It's not just okay to be a little sweaty and dirty; it's actually great for you and your pet's microbiome and overall health. 'We need exposure to dirt and germs (bacteria, fungi, protozoa, etc.) to train our immune systems to recognize friend from foe,' says Dr. Chutkan. 'Not enough exposure to germs, especially when young, leads to a confused immune system that tends to overreact. The result is allergies and autoimmune diseases.' While feeding your pet and giving medications, pay attention to the effect they may be having on the gut microbiome. Though an altered microbiome can have negative consequences, a GI tract full of good microorganisms can be the key to a healthy pet. BY DANIELA LOPEZ

Most U.S. dog owners don't follow FDA pet food handling guidelines, study finds

2+ MIN

15/11/2022

Most U.S. dog owners don't follow FDA pet food handling guidelines, study finds

A new analysis suggests that most U.S. dog owners are unaware of -- and do not follow -- guidelines on safe pet food and dish handling from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but that better education and implementation of the guidelines could reduce contamination. Dr. Emily Luisana of North Carolina State University in Raleigh and colleagues present these findings in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on April 6, 2022. Pet food and dish handling involves potential health risks for both dogs and people, especially those with compromised immune systems. Multiple outbreaks of bacterial illness among dogs and humans have occurred as a result of contaminated dog food. The FDA has issued guidelines on protocols for safe pet food and dish handling, available online, but the information is limited, and the effects of the recommendations have been unclear. To help clarify, Dr. Luisana and colleagues surveyed 417 dog owners. They found that less than 5 percent were aware of the guidelines, and many owners did not follow many of the recommendations. For instance, only one third reported washing their hands after feeding, and only two thirds reported preparing dog food on separate surfaces from those used for human food. The latter fact is of potential public health importance, but is not addressed in the FDA recommendations. To better understand the effects of the FDA recommendations, the researchers tested 68 household dog food dishes for bacterial contamination. After initial testing, they divided the owners into three groups with different instructions for implementing food handling guidelines, then tested the dishes again after 1 week. They found significantly reduced contamination of dishes from owners who instituted the FDA's pet food handling guidelines, either alone or in combination with the FDA's human food handling protocol, versus dishes from owners who were not asked to implement either protocol. The researchers note that their study was small and that future research could clarify optimal hygiene strategies and ways to communicate them. Nonetheless, on the basis of their findings, the researchers outline suggestions to reduce contamination in pet food dishes for owners, veterinarians, pet food sellers and manufacturers. These include ensuring household members who feed pets adhere to FDA guidelines and including written information on guidelines with pet food sales. The authors add: "Most pet owners are unaware that pet food bowls can be a hidden source of bacteria in the household. Knowing how to mitigate this risk and practice proper pet food storage and hygiene may make for a happier, healthier household." by Journal PLOS ONE.

What is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)?

4+ MIN

09/11/2022

What is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)?

Now, let's look even deeper into FIV, your cat's risk, and treatment for infection: Which cats are likely to be infected with FIV? FIV is transmitted primarily through bite wounds that occur in cat fights. However, other interactions between cats, like sharing food and water bowls or grooming tools, have not been shown to be significant in transmission. What are the clinical signs of FIV infection? A cat can actually be infected with FIV for a prolonged period before becoming noticeably ill. This period is known as 'viral dormancy.' In fact, this dormancy, or incubation, can be as long as six years! This means that FIV is generally not diagnosed in very young cats. When signs of illness start to surface, you'll likely see signs that the kitty just doesn't feel well: refusal to eat, weight loss, and lack of self-grooming. Most commonly cats will experience a severe infection affecting the gums, just around the teeth. Also, any wounds that occur could be quite slow to heal. The same is true for respiratory infections; they may linger much longer than would be normally expected. A cat with FIV might also struggle with persistent diarrhea. Ultimately, widespread organ failure can occur. How do we diagnose FIV? There is a simple blood test to check for exposure to Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. A positive test means the cat has been infected with the virus and will likely remain infected for the remainder of his or her life. A negative test may mean that the cat has not been exposed; however, false negatives do occur. Why would an FIV test have a false negative result? It may take up to three months after the initial infection for an FIV test to show a positive result. This means that, for up to three months, the test may be negative even though the virus is present in the cat. Rarely, the test may also turn negative when a cat becomes terminally ill with FIV. This occurs because antibodies (immune proteins) produced against the virus become attached and bound to the large amount of virus present. Since the test detects antibodies that are free in circulation, the test may be falsely negative. FIV Testing in Kittens The vast majority of kittens under four months of age that test positive for FIV have not been exposed to the virus. Instead, the test is detecting the antibodies that actually were passed from the mother to the kitten. These antibodies may persist until the kitten is about six months old; therefore, the kitten should be retested at that time. If the test remains positive, the possibility of true infection is much greater. If the kitten tests negative, there is no cause for worry. If an FIV-infected cat bites a kitten, he or she can develop a true infection. However, the FIV test will usually not turn positive for several months. If a mother cat is infected with FIV at the time she is pregnant or nursing, she can pass large quantities of the virus to her kittens. This means of transmission may result in a positive test result in just a few weeks. How is FIV treated? It is important to note that there is no cure for FIV. However, the disease state can sometimes be treated with antibiotics or other drugs to stimulate the immune system, restoring the cat to relatively good health. The virus may become active at a later date, so FIV is a chronically-managed condition. If you have a cat that tests FIV-positive but is not ill, as long as the cat does not fight with other household cats or those of your neighbors, transmission is not likely to occur. But if the cat is prone to fight or if another cat often instigates fights with him or her, transmission is likely. In fairness to your neighbors, it is generally recommended to restrict an FIV-positive cat to the house. Owners of infected cats must be responsible so the likelihood of transmission to someone else's cat is minimized. Can this virus be transmitted to me or my family? The feline immunodeficiency virus is cat-specific. It does not infect humans. How can I prevent my other cats from getting infected with FIV? Spaying or neutering your cats and keeping an infected cat indoors are the best preventive measures for this virus. Depending on the cats in your household, it may be recommended to keep an FIV-positive cat separated from your other kitties. Talk with your veterinarian for specific recommendations. Currently, no vaccine is available to prevent infection. If you have any questions about FIV or any conditions that may affect your cat, please don't hesitate to reach out to us! Chronic conditions can be managed, and we want to be your allies in keeping your beloved cat as healthy and happy as possible! by The Drake Center for Veterinary Care

How to Choose the Right Treats for Your Dog

4+ MIN

08/11/2022

How to Choose the Right Treats for Your Dog

However, it's easy to be overwhelmed with all the packaged treats on the market -- cranberry apple muffins, tuna escapade, salmon delight...With so many options, how do you choose the right treats for your dog? After all, there are training treats, dental hygiene treats, long-lasting treats, and on and on. It turns out, it DOES matter what types of treats you choose for your pet. You also should pay attention to how many treats you dole out in a day. After all, treats are meant to be 'extras,' not meals unto themselves. Pet Treat Calorie Considerations One of the biggest considerations when it comes to treats is caloric content. A very general veterinary recommendation is that treats should not be more than 10% of your dog's diet. This means, if you're feeding high-calorie treats, it may only take one or two before your pup has reached a healthy limit. Of course, that doesn't mean your dog will want you to stop giving him treats! Treats for Dog Obedience Training And sometimes, repeated treat-feeding is actually necessary. Take, for example, training treats. Whether you have a new puppy or a new-to-you dog that you're training, these small treats can be super helpful for your dog's cooperation. They're small because they're meant to be fed rapid-fire so you maintain your dog's attention. They're usually soft, which makes them easier to gobble down, and this can also make them easier to break into smaller pieces. Even training treats can still be too large - especially for small dogs. It can also be useful to add in low-calorie treats, like baby carrots and frozen green beans, to help keep your pup's treat calories lower. Many trainers will tell you to use high-value treats during training sessions to get - and keep - your dog's attention. Bits of cheese and cooked chicken fall into the category of 'high-value.' Ideally, your dog will be receptive exclusively to low-calorie treats, but if this is not the case, you'll need to monitor treat intake very closely. No matter which types of treats you offer, for your pet's health, it's important not to go overboard. Keep Track If you're doing a lot of training with treats, then you'll likely want to cut back on your dog's dinner portion. After all, you don't want Max to put on too much weight, as that leads to health problems. How much to cut back will vary depending on your dog's age, size, activity level, and of course what type of treats you're giving. Dental Treats Of course, treats aren't just for training. There are lots of other types of treats meant to reward your pet, too. This includes dental treats. There are a variety of dental chews you'll find designed to clean tartar. Many veterinarians recommend them as a supplement to regular tooth-brushing to help clean your dog's teeth between dental cleanings. It turns out that dogs who are active chewers often have cleaner teeth, and since dental chews are designed for, well, chewing, these treats can help. What About Antlers or Hooves? Dogs might love antlers or hooves, but they get mixed reviews from veterinarians, with many doctors saying they're downright dangerous for dogs. It turns out the hardness of the material can lead to broken teeth, and sharp points can lead to mouth injuries. These issues can lead to expensive dental work or painful emergencies. We recommend that you discuss these types of treats, plus any alternatives, with your veterinarian. Special Occasion Treats Have you ever stood at the "barkery" counter mulling over the array of beautiful pupcakes? They do make gorgeous items. However, it's a good idea to limit these to very special occasions, like birthdays or other special holidays. As you can see, there are lots of different types of treats for your dog. The best ones for your pet will be dependent on factors such as age, feeding frequency, and activity levels. If it's just a tasty tidbit to show your love and affection, then most any of the treats on the market will probably be fine. Just don't load your dog up with them. Be open to low-calorie veggie treats, too, to help your dog maintain a healthy weight. Most importantly, be sure to talk with your dog's veterinary team for specific nutritional recommendations. We can help you make treat time less tricky for your dog's health! by GeniusVets

5+ MIN

18/10/2022

Salmonella in pet (& human) food

By María Candelaria Carbajo

By Luciana Chippano

Dog ears come in all shapes and sizes, but they are unique in their anatomy when compared to human ears. Dogs have a long ear canal with both vertical and horizontal components. This creates a J or L shape that traps debris more easily, which in turn, can lead to dog ear infections. Dog ear infections are common, so it's not surprising that in 2018, Embrace Pet Insurance listed dog ear infections as third on the list of the top five dog medical conditions. Here's a guide to help you recognize the signs of dog ear infections so you can take your dog for treatment as soon as possible. Types of Dog Ear Infections Signs of Dog Ear Infections Causes of Ear Infections in Dogs and Puppies Are Dog Ear Infections Contagious? Will Dog Ear Infections Go Away on Their Own? Can You Treat Dog Ear Infections at Home? How to Treat Dog Ear Infections Properly Treating Chronic Ear Infections in Dogs How to Prevent Ear Infections in Dogs and Puppies 3 Types of Dog Ear Infections After the ear canal sits the eardrum, then the middle and inner ear deep inside the head. Otitis is inflammation of the ear. Otitis is divided into three types based on the location of a dog's ear infection: Otitis externa: inflammation of the ear canal. Otitis media: inflammation of the middle ear. Otitis interna: inflammation of the inner ear. Otitis externa is the most common of these three infections because this is the part of the ear most exposed to external factors. Ear infections can be acute (with a quick onset) or chronic and recurrent. Dogs can also have an infection in one or both ears. Signs of Dog Ear Infections A healthy Dog ear is clean and dry. It is normal for small amounts of microscopic bacteria and yeast to live in the outer ear canal, but when a buildup of debris occurs, or the normal, healthy ear canal is compromised, those bacteria and yeast can overgrow and create an infection. Common signs of dog ear infections include: Redness Odor Itching/scratching Pain Shaking of the head Head tilt Occasionally, dogs can experience hearing loss or balance issues. Rarely, an ear infection may affect a dog's appetite if the pet is having system-wide effects. This is seen more often with otitis media or interna. What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs and Puppies? Many things can cause ear infections in dogs and puppies. Often, an underlying problem leads to the inability of the normal protective barrier of a dog's ear to work properly. Once the ear environment becomes moist or inflamed, it is easy for bacteria or yeast to overgrow and cause infection. Here are some common causes for a dog's ear to become infected: Foreign bodies (grass awn, foxtails) that get into the ear. Ear mites. Excessive moisture from bathing or swimming. Food allergies. Environmental allergies. Endocrine issues such as hypothyroidism. Autoimmune diseases such as pemphigus, lupus, or vasculitis. Polyps (fleshy growths inside the ear canal). Certain types of cancer. Trauma to the ear. All of these problems can make the ear canal susceptible to bacterial infection and/or yeast infection. When a dog is in pain and scratching and shaking excessively, an aural hematoma can develop as well. This is seen in the pinna or earflap, where ruptured blood vessels leak blood that clots and causes swelling and pain. Are Dog Ear Infections Contagious? It depends on the cause, but the majority of dog ear infections are not contagious. If the cause is ear mites, though, these parasites are extremely contagious. With ear mites, all pets in the home must be treated simultaneously. Ear mites are relatively common in puppies and kittens and may not be noticed initially when adopting a new pet. But shortly after bringing your new pet home, multiple pets in the house will be scratching and shaking. Rarely, a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or possible other contagious infection can be cultured from an infected ear. It is recommended to practice good handwashing when interacting with a pet with an ear infection and to limit other pets licking the infected pet's ears. Good handwashing is also recommended after cleaning or medicating the ear to limit any topical absorption of medication. Will a Dog Ear Infection Go Away on Its Own? Most often, a dog ear infection will not go away on its own. All types of otitis require a veterinarian to evaluate the infection and the eardrum. If the eardrum is ruptured, certain cleaners and medications can be toxic to the middle ear. Can You Treat Dog Ear Infections at Home? The simple answer is no. Dog ear infections require vet treatment and medication in order to restore a healthy ear canal. After the veterinarian has evaluated your pet, they will determine if any further home treatment is appropriate. This can be done if a small amount of debris is present and the eardrum is intact. Dr. Wendy Brooks, DVM, DABVP, notes that if a large amount of debris present, a veterinarian must perform a thorough deep clean while the pet is under sedation. How to Treat Dog Ear Infections Properly Your veterinarian will likely need to test the ear debris or perform scans of your dog's ear to choose the appropriate treatment. These are some tests that your vet might conduct: Cytology uses special stains on the swab of debris to color the microscopic bacterial cells or fungus. Viewing these under the microscope can identify the specific cause. Culture/sensitivity testing uses special medium/broth to grow and identify the specific bacteria that are causing the infection. It also tests which antibiotics will be effective in eliminating the infection. Blood testing may be needed to check for endocrine disease as an underlying condition. Skull x-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI may be needed to assess the extent of severe or inner ear disease. Once the details of your dog's ear infection are known, therapy will likely consist of multiple elements that may include topical, oral, or surgical therapies. Topical Often, a cleanser in combination with an ointment or eardrop can be used. This medication typically needs to get deep into the ear canal. Sometimes an oti-pack is used. This medication is in a lanolin base that is slowly released and does not require daily cleaning or application of drops. Oral Depending on the severity of the infection, an oral antibiotic, antifungal, or a steroid medication may be used to help heal the ear from the 'inside out.' Surgical Ears that have had severe chronic disease may no longer respond to medical treatments. The goal of surgery for these ears is to open the canal or sometimes to completely remove all diseased tissue. What If Your Dog Has Chronic Ear Infections? Chronic ear infections can be time-consuming and frustrating for the pet, the owner, and even the veterinarian. Certain breeds of dogs are known to more commonly experience recurring ear infection issues, according to the Veterinary Information Network.3 This can be partly due to genetics, ear shape, or ear confirmation. Over time, proliferative ear tissue can form, making treatment more difficult. Cocker Spaniels and Springer Spaniels commonly get chronic infections due to long, floppy ears and a high numbers of ceruminous glands (ear sweat glands that produce earwax). Shar-Peis have small ear canals that can trap and hide debris. Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are prone to allergies and underlying sensitivities leading to chronic or recurrent ear infection. Schnauzers and Poodles often have excess hair deep in the ear canal. Chronic dog ear infections require closely working with your veterinarian to treat. It is important that your vet does testing to choose the appropriate medication. Chronic infections can require medication consistently for 6 to 8 weeks. After treatment, testing is needed again to ensure that all the infection has cleared. If we stop medicating too soon or do not treat underlying problems, it is easy for the infection to return, sometimes even becoming resistant to many medications. How to Prevent Ear Infections in Dogs and Puppies Regular grooming, ear cleaning, and ear maintenance are important parts of pet care. Routine ear cleansing is especially important if your dog swims often. Cleaning is best accomplished with a professional dog ear cleaning product. These typically have been specifically formulated for effective pH ranges for dogs and contain drying agents. Key Points for Dog Ear Cleaning Do not use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as they can kill healthy ear cells. Do not stick cotton swabs down into your dog's ear, as this can risk rupturing the eardrum. It is okay to use cotton balls or ear wipes to clean crevices and the earflap. Dog Ear Cleaning Technique Apply liquid cleanser to the ear as directed. Close the earflap and massage the base of the ears. Gently wipe clean with a cloth or cotton balls. Apply any medication prescribed. By: Pet MD

4+ MIN

22/03/2021

What is the Relationship between Pet Food and the hair of Cats and Dogs?

By María Candelaria Carbajo

The hair of dogs and cats is such a characteristic factor of the different breeds and species that it is, even in many cases, what makes a person can choose for one breed or another. In this article we will tell you the importance of pet food when it comes to preserving the hair of animals and the different options that we can offer to pets in our Industry. Many Dogs and Cats suffer from hair problems that manifest as persistent shedding, obsessive grooming, paw chewing, bald patches, or skin rashes. However, the hair responds to a cyclical process. Hair shedding is a normal physiological process, common to many species of animals (and even humans). The truth is that, in Dogs and Cats, taking into account it's more visible (and in many cases, annoying for their owners). In these species, the shedding must occur once or twice a year: in the transition from winter to spring, and from summer to autumn on some occasions. This is known as a seasonal shedding, which is normal, necessary, and healthy. Now, the problem appears when a Dog or Cat constantly sheds its hair, we could even say that throughout all the seasons. Does the food given to the pet have to do with these events? Are there ingredients that positively or negatively affect the fur of animals? First and foremost, it should be noted that a continuous shedding of hair indicates that there is an excess of waste in the pet's system that is trying to eliminate. Among the possible causes of a continuous shedding of hair, poor quality food is the main one, followed by: • Overfeeding • Unidentified food allergy or intolerance to an ingredient in the formula • Excess fat and protein intake These factors can lead to the accumulation of toxic waste in the system and a variety of problems. What can we do from the pet food industry? There are certain components that we can take into account when making a new formula or improving an existing one: • Hypoallergenic food: After years of studies and tests, it could be said that, today, formulas with whole grains give excellent results; secondly, there are potatoes and buckwheat. In the case of dogs, a natural, healthy, easily digestible food, rich in complex carbohydrates and low in protein and fat is the closest thing to an ideal formula. • Overfeeding: Although in this sense there is not much that we can control from the industry, what can be done is to raise awareness and inform through the packaging of each of our products about the importance of respecting the amounts recommended by veterinary nutritionists. You have a recent article where we talked at length about this topic. Overfeeding a pet will cause the body to receive more of what it needs and consumes, even if the food is of excellent quality, so it will accumulate all these components in the form of toxins. Hair loss in dogs It goes without saying that a food with a complete and balanced formula helps to keep the cycle of coat change unaltered. Still, in many cases, what is good for one dog or breed may not be good for another. The ingredients that today help prevent excessive hair loss in dogs are: • Fruits and vegetables, due to their high omega-6 content. • Royal smoked salmon, due to its high omega-3 content. • Protein from brown rice. • Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids: Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids provide a lot of nutrition and hydration to the skin and coat, especially in breeds with a tendency to have dry, sensitive or dull skin. The balance between these two acids is what achieves a shiny and healthy coat. • Salmon and trout flour. • Antioxidants, prebiotics and probiotics. Hair loss in cats In the case of cats, and especially those with long hair, the formula of the food can make a big difference, both in the aesthetics and in the health of the hair. The shiny coat of a cat can have up to 1,200 hairs per square centimeter. With what ingredients can we try to take care of it and keep it healthy, shiny and smooth? • Pure coconut oil: Helps to hydrate the skin, especially sensitive skin prone to allergies or redness. At the same time, it improves the appearance of the hair, because it provides shine and softness from within. Prevents excessive loss and promotes healthy growth. • Zinc and vitamins C, E, A and B: This set of vitamins promotes the synthesis of keratin, something essential for a healthy, elastic, thick and shiny skin and coat. • Biotin: Vitamin B complex that helps promote healthy tissue growth. • Vitamin E: This vitamin is a natural antioxidant that helps protect your pet's skin against free radicals that could damage skin cells. • Chicken flour and brown rice. Summary Hair, beyond being characteristic of each race or species, has its own functions, such as providing sensory data and protection. Beyond aesthetics, it is essential to emphasize raising awareness among the pet-owning public about which food is most suitable for each species or breed and how to recognize when the hair is in good or bad condition. Without a doubt, a balanced and complete formula in nutrients, vitamins, minerals, proteins and carbohydrates will do its job and will keep the animal healthy and cute. Even so, you must always take into account reinforcing the importance of respecting the quantities, as well as researching or consulting about the indicated food for each Pet. What ingredient do you think is the most suitable to add to pet food formulas? By: All Pet Food

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