Nutrition

Diet in canine dermatology part 2: management of cutaneous adverse food reactions

An adverse food reaction (AFR) describes an abnormal response as a result of ingestion of a food or food additive, with cutaneous adverse food reactions (CAFRs) — the main focus of this article —...

Small mammal herbivores part 1: digestive system adaptations to a herbivorous diet

The selected species considered in this article are monogastric hindgut fermenters: they have a single, non-compartmentalised stomach, and a large caecum that is the site of microbial fermentation...

Vegan diets for felines

Veterinary professionals are commonly taught that taurine, arachidonic acid and vitamin A cannot be derived from plant material and will need to be chemically synthesised (as with taurine) or be...

Diet in canine dermatology part 1: nutrition for skin health and support

Veterinary nurses can play a crucial role in assisting with a full dermatological history to aid the diagnosis of any skin disease. As part of this, obtaining a full dietary history from owners is...

Veterinary nutritional assessment: the importance of an interprofessional approach

As with any medical intervention, there are always risks of complications and this is no different with nutritional interventions. Minimising such risks depends on regular nutritional assessment,...

The role of energy and weight: from conception to adulthood

Adipose tissue is an active organ that produces a large range of hormones and protein factors called adipokines. One such hormone is leptin, which plays a pivotal role in reproduction. Leptin levels...

How to provide nutrition to rabbits in the critical care setting

As discussed, rabbits require a source of low-quality roughage, as well as a handful of non-selective pellets, and some fruit/vegetables in small amounts. Ideally, they should receive at least 80% of...

Maintaining mental and physical fitness into old age

Homes can be a challenge for older dogs that may be suffering from mobility issues or discomfort and/or sensory impairment affecting their eyesight or hearing. The leading sense for dogs is the sense...

Health and husbandry of companion parrots

Looking after the health of parrots occurs even before the patient presents to the veterinary clinic. It is important for front-of-house staff to discuss appropriate carry cages with owners prior to...

Cutaneous adverse food reactions

The role of food allergies in canine and feline IBD is unknown. In IBD, the immune system responds incorrectly to environmental triggers, which can include food, that causes inflammation of the...

Obesity in cats and dogs: simple things you can do

The rising trend of pet obesity is concerning for both veterinary practices and pet owners, affecting the health, longevity and quality of life of cats and dogs. However, there are actions that can be...