neutering weight

7/31/2019 Neutering Weight

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F96abstractsenti rety

EFFECT OF INSOLUBLE AND SOLUBLE DIETARY FIBER ON FOOD INTAKE IN

ENERGY RESTRICTED DOGS. Butterwick, R.F. WALTHAM Centre For Pet Nutrition.

Intake of dietary fiber has been used in both man and small animals in weight reduction

programmes in an attempt to overcome hunger or the perception of hunger. To clarify the role of

fiber in weight reduction we have conducted a series of studies to evaluate the effect of different

dietary fibers on satiety and the perception of hunger in dogs. In each study test diets with either

low (control), moderate or high levels of soluble or insoluble fiber were fed to six dogs in

amounts that correspond to the food allowance for weight reduction . During each test period,

commencing at introduction of test diet, each dog was videoed for 30 minutes. The time spent at

the bowl and number of visits to the bowl were subsequently recorded. On two occasions during

each test period, dogs were presented with a challenge meal consisting of standard canned food

ad libitum. At the end of each test period all dogs entered a washoutperiod in which they were

offered a standard canned food ad libitum. Dogs were subsequently transferred to the next test

diet. Food intake, body weight and faecal quality were monitored. There was no significant

effect (p>0.05) of diet on the intake of the challenge meal three hours following consumption of

the test meal or on intake during the subsequent washoutperiod in either study. In addition diet

had no significant (p>0.05) effect on behavioral traits, (time spent at, and number of visits to the

bowl) over the 30 minute period following presentation of test diet. Results of these studies

indicate that intake of high levels of either insoluble or soluble dietary fiber has no effect on food

intake or on the perception of hunger, measured by the techniques used, in dogs restricted in

energy intake.


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F96abstractsentirety

THE EFFECT OF FIBRE ON NUTRIENT AVAILABILITY IN CATS OF DIFFERENT

AGES. Harper, E. J. WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition

A series of digestibility trials was carried out with 48 healthy adult cats aged between 18 months

and 13 years. Each cat participated in a 9-week study during which the response to 2 diets was

evaluated. The first diet was a nutritionally complete canned cat food and the second was the

same product with 0.4% supplementary fibre (guar gum). The fibre source was analysed (AOAC

method) to determine the relative insoluble and soluble fractions. To ensure that all the cats were

of equivalent health status, at the start and end of the study the blood biochemistry, haematology

and thryoid hormone status of every cat was assessed. Bodyweights were measured weekly and

urine specific gravities were measured daily. The trial was designed so that 3 digestibility values

were obtained per diet for each cat. Each set of 3 values was averaged and the value used for

statistical comparisons between animals. Comparisons between diets were done using paired

t-tests. The data were also categorised by age group and the results compared using one way

ANOVA. The composition of guar gum was analysed as 24.4% insoluble and 75.6% soluble

fibre. There was no effect of diet on food intake. The mean predicted metabolisable energy

intake for all cats receiving diet 1 (standard) was 56.96 +/- 10.38 kcal/kg bwt/d while the mean

intake for all cats receiving diet 2 (+ 0.4% guar) was 55.89 +/- 11.87 kcal/kg bwt/d. Although

there was a tendency for the product containing supplementary guar gum to exhibit lower fat,

organic matter and energy digestibility coefficients than the standard product these differences

were not statistically significant. The protein digestibility coefficient was significantly reduced

in the product containing supplementary guar gum in 3 of the age groups. However, the

digestibility coefficients for all the macronutrients and energy were within the normal ranges.


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LIPID AND FATTY ACID CHARACTERIZATION OF PLASMA LIPOPROTEINS IN NORMAL CATS

Thomas H. Herdt, Michigan State University

Most plasma lipoproteins are assembled in the liver and modified in the circulation. Study of the lipid composition of

plasma lipoproteins in cats might, therefore, be an approach to the study of hepatic lipid metabolism, particularly the

pathophysiology of feline idiopathic fatty liver. The objective of this experiment was to characterize the plasma

lipoproteins of normal cats, especially with respect to phospholipid and fatty acid composition. Methods - Three-

milliliter blood samples were taken from each of twelve healthy cats that had been maintained on a uniform diet.

Plasma lipoproteins were separated by ultracentrifugation in a continuous density gradient. Lipids were extracted

from each fraction and separated by TLC. Fatty acids were quantified by capillary gas-liquid chromatography in each

lipid fraction. Results - Lipoprotein fractions separated into four distinct bands identified as VLDL, LDL, HDL2 and

HDL3. These accounted for 7%, 18%, 21% and 54% of total lipoprotein fatty acids, respectively. Further results are

in the tables. Conclusion - The lipid and fatty acid composition of feline lipoproteins is in general similar to other

domestic animals. Furthermore, feline lipoprotein lipids can be adequately studied in samples small enough to be

practically obtained from clinical patients.

Table 1. Lipoprotein lipid concentrations (mmol/l in plasma) and proportional distribution of lipids

(%) within lipoprotein classes.

VLDL LDL HDL2 HDL3

Cholesteryl esters (CE) .062 (31) .286 (46) .214 (32) .510 (28)

Triacylglycerols (TG) .078 (40) .040 (6) .008 (2) .008 (1)

Phosphatidyl choline (PC) .032 (16) .262 (41) .416 (58) 1.126 (64)

Phosphatidyl ethanolamine (PE) .026 (13) .046 (7) .058 (8) .116 (7)

Table 2. Proportional distribution (%) of fatty acids within lipid classes

C16:0 C18:0 C18:1 C18:2 C18:3 C20:4 C20:5 C22:6

CE 17.3 11.1 26.9 33.9 .5 10.24 0.5 0.1

TG 35.9 17.1 23.9 16.8 0.9 3.5 1.7 0.2

PC 22.2 33.2 13.8 16.7 .2 12.1 1.0 0.8

PE 25.0 22.9 20.7 17.2 0.5 10.8 0.6 2.3


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DIETARY FATTY ACID COMPOSITION AFFECTS RENAL FUNCTION IN CATS.

S. A. Brown, C. A. Brown, W. A. Crowell, J. A. Barsanti and D. R. Finco. College of VeterinaryMedicine, University of Georgia.

Previous studies in our laboratories have demonstrated that renal function in animals can be

modified by alterations in diet. We tested the hypothesis that alterations in dietary

polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) composition would affect renal vascular resistance and

glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in normal cats. For these studies, two diets (30/1 and 1/1), which

differed only in fatty acid composition, were fed to 5 cats. The omega 6:omega 3 PUFA ratio in

Diet 30/1 was 29.2:1 and in Diet 1/1 was 1.33:1. Diet 30/1 was fed during month 1, Diet 1/1

during month 2, and Diet 30/1 again during month 3. At the end of each month, GFR detected

by urinary clearance of inulin and renal plasma flow (RPF) detected by urinary clearance of para-

aminohippuric acid were measured.

Significant (p


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EFFECT OF ENERGY INTAKE ON SERUM NONESTERIFIED FATTY ACID

CONCENTRATIONS AND THEIR APPLICATION IN EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS

OF NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT IN FELINE PATIENTS.HE Pazak, MA Scott, JW Bartges, TL Huber. Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College ofVeterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602.

Objective: Glucose, ketone bodies, and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) circulate throughout the body

and serve as the primary energy sources at the cellular level. For a blood metabolite to be useful as a

monitor of an animal's energy balance, it must be under minimal to moderate homeostatic control to reflect

variations in energy intake. Concentrations of blood glucose and ketone bodies are under a high degree of

homeostatic control and, in a normal animal, are maintained in a narrow range. NEFAs appear to be under

moderate control and their primary source is from adipose tissue lipolysis. Higher circulating serum NEFA

concentrations should, therefore, reflect a negative energy balance as with fasting, and decreased

concentrations should parallel feeding and a positive energy balance.

Methods: Serum NEFA concentrations were determined using Wako NEFA C test kit. Serum NEFA levels

were determined in 16 adult research cats at the following timepoints: baseline, 4 hours after access to

normal daily food intake, and at 8 hour intervals through a subsequent 72 hour food deprivation period.

Animals were then fed ad libitum for 8 hours and a final sample was drawn 10 hours later. Serum NEFA

concentrations were also determined in feline patients receiving nutritional support at selected daily

timepoints.

Results: In the research cats, a significant decrease in serum NEFA levels from baseline was noted 4 hours

after access to the animal's normal daily meal. As the animals were fasted, serum levels rose above baseline

and a significantly elevated level was maintained throughout the 72 hour period. With refeeding, serum

NEFA concentrations fell dramatically, often below baseline. In clinical patients, serum NEFA

concentrations were significantly elevated above normal before nutritional support was initiated and

declined as caloric intake increased.

Conclusions: Serum NEFA concentrations are reflective of the energy balance of normal cats and are

useful in assessing adequacy of nutritional support in feline patients.


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SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS OF NORMAL AND OVERWEIGHT

DOGS J. B. Jones, A. M. Legendre, S. E. Doan, M. D. Payne, Dept. Small Animal Clinical Sciences,University of Tennessee.

It is believed that environmental and social factors influence the likelihood of a dog being overweight.

This study attempted to identify those social and environmental factors that influence obesity.

Clients with normal and overweight dogs seen for routine procedures were interviewed using a

questionnaire. Questionnaires were administered to clients of the University of Tennessee College of

Veterinary Medicine as well as other veterinary clinics in the Knoxville area. Questions concerning

feeding patterns, living arrangements, and exercise habits of the dogs and owners were asked.

We used the nine-point body condition score system, designed by Ralston Purina (D. LaFlamme), to

classify the normal and overweight dogs. Dogs scoring 4 - 6 were classified as normal. Those scoring 7

and higher were considered overweight. Eighty-seven questionnaires were completed. Forty-three

percent of the dogs were overweight. Though some studies suggest that overweight people have

overweight dogs, we found that overweight people usually have normal weight dogs. In fact, 49%

percent of normal weight dogs have overweight owners, as compared to 38% of the overweight dogs of

overweight owners. The owner's perceptions about their pet's weight indicates that people with normal

weight dogs recognized them as normal, but 46% of owners of overweight dogs considered their pet

normal or underweight. Spayed females comprised 56.8% of the overweight dogs. Fifty-six percent of

the small dogs were overweight, but only 37% of the large dogs. Ninety-two percent of the overweight

dogs ate their meals inside as opposed to 76% of the normal weight dogs. Snacks were given to 84% of

both normal and overweight dogs. Forty-four percent of the overweight dogs and 28% of the normal

weight dogs spent fifty or more percent of their time alone. Sixty-four percent of overweight dogs and

82% of the normal weight dogs got daily exercise.


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DIETARY SOYBEAN PROTEIN HELPS MAINTAIN INTESTINAL MUCOSAL INTEGRITY IN CATS

WITH METHOTREXATE-INDUCED ENTERITIS S L. Marks1, R Reader 2, R Backus, T Ortega1, P Kass$,

Q R. Rogers 1 Dept. of Medicine and Epidemiology, 2 Dept. of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology,$ Dept. of Population Health and Reproduction, Dept. of Molecular Biosciences.University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine

The toxicity of cancer chemotherapy to gastrointestinal epithelium is one of the most important factors limiting the

dose of cytotoxic therapy. This study determined the impact of purified diets containing intact protein sources

(soybean protein or casein) or crystalline amino acids on intestinal structure and function in a feline model of

methotrexate-induced enteritis. Eighteen adult specific pathogen-free (SPF) catswere randomized to receive

intragastric meal-feedings of isonitrogenous amino acid-, casein-, or soybean protein-based purified diets and six

SPF control cats received a commercial, dry, expanded (complex) diet orally. Plasma cholecystokinin (CCK-LI)

immunoreactivity was measured after 14 days by RIA with a tyrosine sulfate-specific, C-terminal antibody. Cats

were injected with methotrexate at 11 mg/kg IV after feeding these diets for 21 days. Celiotomies were performed

on day 24 for aseptic removal of mesenteric lymph nodes, full thickness intestinal biopsies, and for obtaining small

intestinal fluid samples for microbial culture. Methotrexate administration was associated with severe enterotoxicity

manifested by diarrhea and vomiting, and a significant decrease (46%) in the total and differential white blood cell

counts (WCC), particularly in cats receiving the amino acid and casein-based purified diets. Cats receiving the

casein-based purified diet also had the highest incidence of positive mesenteric lymph node cultures (50%) and the

greatest villous atrophy in all sections examined. Cats fed the soybean protein and complex diets had the least

villous atrophy in the small intestine and the greatest CCK-LI concentrations at 30 and 100 min. No significant

dietary or chemotherapy effects were observed on the plasma phenylalanine and tryptophan concentrations. The

results of this study indicate that the feeding of a casein-based purified diet was associated with increased morbidity,

villous atrophy, increased bacterial translocation, and decreased secretogogue activity on the secretion of CCK. In

contrast, feeding a soybean protein-based purified diet was associated with improved intestinal integrity that may be

associated with a greater secretogogue effect in stimulating the secretion of trophic gut hormones such as CCK.


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VARIABILITY OF URINE CHARACTERISTICS IN CATS FED A COMMON DIET AS DETERMINED BY AN

AUTOMATED URINE pH COLLECTION DEVICE. J. R. Jackson, D. A. Ritchie, D. P. Laflamme, J. M. Ballam.

Ralston Purina Company

Urine pH is considered an important physiological parameter in cats which can be influenced by diet as well as by

other factors. Typically, collection of urine for measurement of pH has been by cystocentesis, catheterization or

manual expression. Some disadvantages to these methods include being limited to a point in time sample rather

continuous monitoring, potential bladder trauma and animal stress--all factors which may influence urine pH. To

eliminate these factors, systems were developed to continuously monitor and immediately record the pH of

spontaneously voided urine. Studies were conducted with these automated urine pH collection units to estimate the

components of variability in urine pH.

Methods:Experiment 1- Twelve adult cats (6 male and 6 female) were fed one of two diets differing in urine

acidification potential for 9 days each in a crossover design. Urine pH was recorded for all days to determine days to

acclimation to a change in diet. Experiment 2- Six male and six female adult were fed a common, nutritionally

complete and balanced diet for 10 days. Urine pH and volume were recorded for the final 6 days as separate 24-hour

collections. Data were analyzed for variation from day, cat and individual urination.

Results: Changes in urine pH in response to a dietary change tended to plateau within the first 3 - 4 days feeding in

Experiment 1. In Experiment 2, 94% of the variability in urine pH was due to differences between urinations within

individual cats. After averaging urine pH values from each cat for each day, cat to cat variability explained 32% of

the remaining variability and 68% was explained by day to day variability within cats. Little change in cat to cat

variability was found when the number of collection days were increased.

Conclusions: Variability in urine pH between cats is considerable, even in those fed the same diet. Day to day and

within day variation may be missed by single urine samples, such as obtained via cystocentesis. This variability

should be considered when interpreting urine pH research and clinical data.


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CLINICAL EVALUATION OF CATS WITH NON-OBSTRUCTIVE LOWER URINARY TRACT

DISEASE: 109 CASES, 1993 - 1995. C.A. Tony Buffington1, Dennis J. Chew 1, Michael S. Kendall1, Peter V.

Scrivani1, Steven B. Thompson1, Jean L. Blaisdell1, and Bruce E. Woodworth 2 1 College of Veterinary Medicine,The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. 2College of Medicine, The Ohio State University and RiversideMethodist Hospital, Columbus, OH Supported in part by NJH-NIDDK KD47538

Signs of lower urinary tract disease (LUTD) in cats occur due to urolithiasis, urinary tract infection, urethral

stricture, neoplasia, congenital anomalies, and idiopathic inflammation. In 1985, the overall incidence of LUTD was

reported to be 0.85% in the United States cat population. During a similar time, another study reported that 23% of

cats with signs of LUTD had struvite urolithiasis, 2% had urinary tract infection, and none had neoplasia or a

congenital anomaly. Idiopathic LUTD was diagnosed in 69% of unobstructed cats. To identify historical, laboratory

and imaging parameters characteristic of cats with signs of LUTD, we examined cats for treatment of signs of LUTD

from September 1993 through April 1995. The evaluation included a structured interview, CBC, serum biochemical

profile, serology for FeLV and FIV, urinalysis and culture, and contrast radiography, or urethrocystoscopy (females

only). Of 109 cats with signs of LUTD 15 had bladder stones (8 struvite, 7 oxalate), 12 had anatomic defects

(diverticulae, urethral strictures, malpositioned urethra), 1 had a urinary tract infection, and 2 had neoplasia. Ten

cats were presumed to have a behavior disorder based on the absence of any abnormal medical findings, and 70 had

Idiopathic cystitis based on a history of owner-observed pain (41%), hematuria (61%), stranguria (70%), pollakiuria

(79%), or inappropriate urination (93%); urinalysis findings of >5 leukocytes/400X field (3%), >5

erythrocytes/400X field (23%), >1+ Dipstrip blood (40%), radiographic (100%) or cystoscopic (100%) evidence of

bladder lesions compatible with inflammation, and absence of an alternative diagnosis. In 14, only radiographic or

cystoscopic abnormalities were present. Cats with LUTD were significantly (X2 1,0.95=40.52, P


10/29


CLINICAL SIGNS ASSOCIATED WITH SODIUM DEFICIENCY IN GROWING

KITTENS Shiguang Yu and James G Morris. Department of Molecular Biosciences, School ofVeterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, U.S.A.

Sodium deficiency in cats does not appear to have been described in the literature. A depletion -

repletion experiment was carried out to define the clinical signs of sodium deficiency in growing

kittens. Six SPF short-hair kittens (4 male, 2 female) 12 to 15 wk of age were fed a sodium-

deficient purified diet (0.08 g Na/kg diet) for 12 days. Then, the kittens were transferred to a

sodium- replete purified diet (0.3 g Na/kg diet) and fed on this diet for another 14 days.

Deionized water in plastic bottles was given to the kittens during the depletion and repletion

periods. The kittens were housed individually in stainless steel cages in a temperature controlled

room (21 + 1 /C) with a light-dark cycle of 14:10h. Following consumption of the sodium-

deficient diet feed intake was reduced by about 50% and the body weight gain by 85%, plasma

aldosterone concentration increased from approximate 0.1 to 3 ng/mL and urinary aldosterone

output from 0.05 to 1.5 :g/d, urinary sodium output decreased from 50 to almost 0 mg/d and

urinary specific gravity from 1.063 to 1.022. Kittens exhibited a progressive polydypsia and

polyuria and a slight decrease in plasma sodium concentration from 137 to 134 mEq/L (p>0.05).

Clinical signs resolved after the kittens had been on the sodium-replete diet for 10 days. Our

results demonstrated that sodium is essential for growing kittens and that the above parameters

may be used to monitor sodium status for the determination of Na requirement of kittens for

growth.

This study was supported by Mark Morris Associate, Topeka, Kansas, U.S.A..


11/29


EFFECT OF WEIGHT GAIN AND SUBSEQUENT WEIGHT LOSS ON GLUCOSE

TOLERANCE AND INSULIN RESPONSE IN HEALTHY CATS.

V. Biourge1, R. W. Nelson2, J. G. Morris2, Q. R. Rogers2. 1R&D Royal Canin, Vannes, Franceand 2School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis.

Blood clinical chemistries, liver histology, and glucose tolerance and insulin response after IVadministration of 0.5 g of glucose/kg of body weight were evaluated in 12 cats at the beginningof the study (baseline), after a 27% gain in body weight (weight gain), after a voluntary fast of 5

to 6 weeks (fasting), then five weeks after the termination of the fast (recovery), consecutively.Blood samples for glucose and insulin determinations were collected immediately prior to and10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 minutes after glucose administration.

Gain in body weight was not associated with any significant changes in blood chemistries or liverhistology. Fasting resulted in a significant decrease (p


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COMPUTER PROGRAM AS A TOOL FOR WEIGHT LOSS MANAGEMENT.

D. P. Laflamme, S. F. Owens. Ralston Purina Company

Maintenance energy requirements (MER) vary greatly between individual dogs and cats, leading

to considerable variation in response to common weight loss protocols. In prior studies,

individual responses to fixed weight loss protocols producing a mean rate of loss of 1.3 - 1.5%

initial bodyweight/week ranged from near 0% to 4% per week. To help address this variability, a

computer program was developed that utilizes an individual animals response to calculate a

more accurate assessment of MER. The objective of this study was to confirm the ability of this

program to provide a controlled rate of weight loss despite widely varying MER. The programs

calculations assume that changes in adult body weight in dogs and cats are due to changes in

adipose tissue containing approximately 85% fat and 7920 Kcal/kg. A further objective of this

study was to confirm the assumption made regarding changes in body composition in dogs and

cats. Body composition was determined by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) before and

after weight loss in two groups of overweight (BCS > 7) cats and two groups of overweight dogs.

Food allowances were adjusted every 28 days as prescribed by the computer program. Animals

were allowed up to 6 months for weight loss. Differences between groups for rate of loss and

mean weight loss were not significant (p > 0.10). Individual variation in rate of weight loss was

reduced compared to that observed in previous weight loss studies using standardized

calculations. Percent of weight loss as fat was similar to that reported in other species.

Conclusion: These studies documented that the computer program can be used to reduce

variation in individual rates of weight loss despite highly variable energy needs.


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SERUM TRIGLYCERIDE AND BODY FAT DETERMINATION BY DEUTERIUM DILUTION

IN NORMAL AND LIPOPROTEIN LIPASE DEFICIENT CATS.

Robert C. Backus1, David G. Ginzinger2, Michael R. Hayden2, Robert H. Eckel3, M. Anne Hickman4, andQuinton R. Rogers1.Departments of1Molecular Biosciences and 4Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, School ofVeterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA; 2Department of Medical Genetics,

University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; 3Department of Medicine, Division ofEndocrinology, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO.

We are currently investigating metabolic aspects of an inherited lipoprotein lipase (LPL) deficiency of

cats. Sequence analysis of the feline LPL gene has shown that a single base-pair substitution renders the

enzyme inactive. After using a PCR-based mismatch or RFLP assays to identify carriers of the defective

gene, we determined serum triglyceride concentrations and percent body fat in normal cats and in hetero-

and homozygote cats. When consuming ad libitum commercial extruded diets of ~ 10% crude fat,

meanSEM serum triglyceride concentration of homozygotes (n=5) was 1668106 mg/dl, while those

for normals (n=7) and heterozygotes (n=3) were less (P


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The following abstracts will be presented in Poster format


16/29


ANALYSIS OF PLUG MATERIAL FROM CATS SUFFERING URETHRAL

OBSTRUCTION. J. L. Westropp, J. L. Blaisdell, C. A. Buffington. College of Veterinary

Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH.

It has been suggested that Tamm-Horsfall protein (THP) may be involved in the formation of a

mucinous matrix promoting struvite crystal aggregation and the formation of urethral plugs in

male cats. This study compared the electrophoretic patterns and antibody probe results of

urethral plugs with those of urine and serum obtained from both normal cats and cats with

idiopathic lower urinary tract disease (iLUTD). Urethral plugs were obtained from eight adult

male cats presented for emergency relief of urethral obstruction. Proteins in these plugs were

compared with proteins from urine and serum samples collected from the obstructed cats, from

four additional cats with iLUTD and from six normal cats. Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate-

polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), Western blotting and immunological detection

(using THP, albumin, and IgG antisera) were performed. Total protein for each molecular mass

range was determined for all samples. Plugs were found to be composed predominantly of

proteins with molecular mass less than 65,000 kilodaltons (kDa), with a pattern significantly

different than either urine or serum. Immunodetection identified these protein bands to be

primarily albumin and albumin fractions. THP was found to be only a minor constituent of plug

protein. Urine and serum proteins from cats with iLUTD also were found to be composed of a

greater proportion of proteins with mass less than 65,000 kDa. The increase in low molecular

weight protein content of plugs may arise from degraded serum proteins that appear in the urine

after Substance P mediated urothelial vascular leakage.


17/29


HYPERVENTILATION SYNDROME IN CATS WITH INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS. H. A.

Johnson, J. L. Blaisdell, C. A. Buffington. College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State

University, Columbus, OH.

Hyperventilation syndrome results from respiratory alkalosis induced by stress. Because we have

observed dysphoria associated with management procedures in some cats with interstitial cystitis

(IC) in our colony, we compared effects of these procedures on behavior, clinical signs of IC,

urine pH and bicarbonate concentrations in cats with IC to their effects on normal cats. Eight

adult male cats (4 normal, 4 affected) were studied in two experiments. First, cats were stressed

by placing them into clean cages (mild stress). Pooled urine specimens were collected at 24

hours intervals until parameters returned to baseline. One month later, pre-stress behavioral

observations were made, after which cats were subjected to phlebotomy and cystocentesis

(moderate stress) prior to re-caging them. After mild stress, cats with IC had hematuria,

stranguria, hematuria and pollakiuria. None of the normal cats showed any signs of ill health.

Urine and blood pH, and bicarbonate concentration and excretion, were increased in all cats after

either stress, and were significant in affected cats. After moderate stress, cats with IC exhibited

significantly more behaviors related to stress, including hyperventilation, hiding, hissing, and

restlessness. They also showed a significant decrease in sociable and greeting behaviors. Cats

with IC were more acutely affected by stress, with an onset of clinical signs, an increase in stress

related markers of blood, urine and behavior, and slower recovery from stress than seen in

normal cats.


18/29


CAT URINE COLLECTION/ANALYSIS SYSTEM. D. A. Ritchie, J.R. Jackson ,

D.P. Laflamme. Ralston Purina Company, St. Louis, Missouri

Historically, collection and measurement of urine pH has been by cystocentesis. There are many

disadvantages to this method including having to use urine pH spot-check rather than continuous

monitoring, potential bladder infections, and animal stress. The objective of this project was to

develop a complete system to separate, capture and analyze spontaneously voided urine on a

continuos basis from cats or small dogs.

A urine collection/analysis system was designed to measure pH and weight of each urination in

addition to recording the date and time of each event. A two-stage stainless steel mesh filter

screen, in conjunction with a teflon-coated tapered collection pan, were used to prevent

contamination of samples. An automatic wash cycle was designed into the system to flush urine

samples from collection lines and to maintain the integrity and accuracy of the pH electrode. A

change in weight of at least 5g triggered/initiated the data collection and wash cycle. Six male

domestic short hair cats were used to test the cat urine collection / analysis system. The data

collected included urine pH, volume and time and date of urination event.

There were significant differences in urine pH between ad libitum fed cats. Average daily urine

volume was highly variable between cats. Mean urine pH results collected by the new analysis

system and cystocentesis were not significantly different (p>0.70).

Continuous monitoring of cats with the urine collection/analysis system enables non-invasive

collection of significantly more data relevant to frequency, volume, and pH of successive

urinations over extended periods of time with less trauma to the animals under study.


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BUFFINGTON


20/29


EFFECTS OF ADDED DIETARY EDIBLE TALLOW OR CORN OIL ON SERUM BIOCHEMISTRYPROFILES FROM FASTED, POST-PRANDIAL, AND REFRIGERATED SERUM FROM ADULT DOGS

AND CATS DF Lawler DVM, DG Keltner PhD, AM Gore PhD, Ralston Purina Company

Common basal canine and feline diets containing high total fat and calories were evaluated in two groups each of

dogs and cats, respectively, in four separate trials. The hypothesis was that elevated dietary lipid of differing

ingredient origin would produce different effects on post-prandial lipemia and serum biochemistry profiles.

To each species-specific basal diet, 11% edible tallow or 11% corn oil was added. Final fat and calorie contents

averaged approximately 24% and 2400 kcal/lb feed, respectively. Each trial consisted of approximately 2 weeks of

ad libitum feeding, followed by measurement of fasted and 3-hour post-prandial serum biochemistry profile, and

visual scoring for lipemia. The 3-hour post-prandial samples were refrigerated (4

o

C) for 24 hours, and the serum

biochemistry profiles and visual lipemia scores were repeated.

Dogs generally developed moderate to heavy post-prandial lipemia, with some clearing of serum upon refrigeration

when edible tallow was fed, but not when corn oil was fed. Cats developed minimal lipemia after feeding, possibly a

reflection of meal size. In all four trials, mean serum urea nitrogen and triglycerides were increased after feeding

(P


21/29


EFFECT OF NEUTERING ON WEIGHT GAIN AND BODY COMPOSITION OF TIME-FED

ENGLISH SETTERS. Kealy R D, Laflamme D P, Hannah S S, Ballam J M, Hume E C, Mantz S L,Ralston Purina Company, St. Louis, MO

Past reports have suggested a relationship between spayed dogs and resultant obesity. Similar

relationships have been reported for castrated dogs. This study evaluated the effects of neutering

(spaying or castration) on body weight and body composition of English Setters allowed unrestricted

quantities of food in a timed feeding regimen.

Eighteen male and 18 female English Setter dogs were paired within litter by gender and body weight at

approximately 2 years of age. One of each pair was randomly selected and surgically neutered. Dogs

were maintained in a palatability testing facility and allowed food for ten minutes per day. Dogs were

fed assorted diets for the test period except for 28 days immediately prior to each data collection period,

during which time a common diet was fed. Data, including food intake during the 28 day period, body

condition score and body composition by dual energy Xray absorptiometry (DEXA) analysis, were

collected prior to neutering and 30 days , 1 year and 2 years post neutering.

No significant effects of neutering on body weight, body condition score or daily food consumption were

detected. Body composition evaluation by DEXA did not reveal any differences between intact and

neutered dogs for body fat, lean body mass or bone mineral density.

The data suggested that neutered dogs from breeds not prone to obesity, such as this sample of English

Setters, will maintain desirable body condition under a timed feeding regimen. Whether results would be

similar in a breed predisposed to obesity, or if differences would become evident in these dogs as they

age, cannot be determined from this study.


22/29


COMPARISON OF TWO METHODS FOR ESTIMATING BODY COMPOSITION IN

DOGS. H.R. Son1, D.A. dAvignon2, E.C. Hume1, D.A. Schmidt1, J.M. Ballam.1

1Ralston Purina Co., St. Louis, MO., and 2Dept. of Chemistry, Washington Univ., St. Louis,

MO.

The purpose of this study was to compare percent body fat estimates from dual-energy X-ray

absorptiometry (DEXA) with those derived from total body water (TBW) determined by

deuterium oxide (D2O) dilution and subsequent nuclear magnetic resonance analysis. Percent

body fat was estimated by TBW and DEXA in thirty-one dogs representing four breeds and a

wide range of body condition scores. Measurements of percent body fat by DEXA averaged

16.6% higher than the calculated estimates from TBW by D2O dilution. The regression of

percent fat by TBW on percent fat by DEXA had a slope of 1.00 with a correlation coefficient of

0.84. The relative agreement between methods was good despite the significant difference in

absolute agreement between the two methods. The average difference between methods did not

differ by breed, gender, body condition score, body weight or percent fat. The present study was

consistent with previous work in which TBW by D2O underestimated percent body fat in dogs by

15.5%. The excellent relative agreement between percent fat determined by DEXA and D20

dilution, and the consistency between our data and that from other investigators, suggest that

DEXA is a valid and useful method for the in vivo estimation of body composition of dogs.


23/29


AMINO ACID SECRETOGOGUES OF CHOLECYSTOKININ (CCK) IN THE CAT

Kim A. Howard, Robert C. Backus, and Quinton R. Rogers.Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis,CA.

Identification of nutrient secretogogues of CCK is important because of established or reputed roles for

CCK in regulation of pancreatic and biliary secretion, gastrointestinal motility, food intake, and nutrient

metabolism. Our objective was to determine which of the dietary amino acids evoke endocrine CCK

secretion in the cat, a species in which we previously observed significant elevation of plasma CCK

concentration in response to dietary lipids and proteins. In a Latin square design, 8 female cats (2.8-3.6

kg BW) were given amino acids (5 mmol/kg) in solutions at a dosage of 10 ml/kg BW by oral-gastric

tube. To reduce the number of cats per treatment, amino acids were grouped, based on chemical

characteristics and whether research in other species indicated a given amino acid would be a

secretogogue. The treatment combinations were as follows: 1) lys, arg, his; 2) leu, ile, val; 3) trp; 4) tyr,

met, thr; 5) asn, asp, gln, glu, pro; 6) ser, gly, ala, tau; 7) phe; and 8) water. Response to the amino acid

solutions was evaluated by change in plasma CCK concentration from baseline at 15 min following

solution administrations. Plasma CCK concentration was determined by an RIA specific for the sulfated

C-terminal forms of CCK. CCK immunoreactivity (meanSEM) was increased (P


24/29


Supported in part by grants from the San Francisco Miller Foundation, Center for Companion Animal

Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California and a gift from Friskies Research,

Nestec, Ltd, St Jo seph, MO.


25/29


SALT (NaCl) PREFERENCE OF SODIUM REPLETE AND DEPLETED KITTENS

Shiguang Yu and James G. Morris. Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of VeterinaryMedicine, University of California, Davis, U.S.A.

Herbivores, omnivores (including humans), and most other animals examined possess a Na appetite. We

tested the preference of Na replete and depleted kittens for foods containing various levels of NaCl. Two

groups of weaned kittens were fed either a Na replete, (2g Na/kg) purified diet (11kittens) or a Na

depletion (0.1g Na/kg) purified diet (12 kittens) for 6 wk. Each group was divided into two sub-groups: a

replete control (RC) and selection (RS) groups and depleted control (RC) and selection (DS) groups. A

two bowl test (position of the bowls changed daily) was used to determine the preference of the kittens in

the RS and DS groups for diets containing 2, 5, and 10 g Na/kg versus the diet containing 0.1gNa/kg

diet. The RC group was offered the diets containing 2, 5 and 10 g Na/kg at the same time the RS received

these diets, and the DC group was given the 0.1g Na/kg diet at all times. Sufficient food was offered in

each bowl to provide the total daily food intake. The two food bowls were separated by a bowl of

deionized water. Feed intake from the two bowls was similar for kittens within the RC and DC groups.

Kittens within the DS and RS groups ate similar amounts of the 0.1 and 2.0g Na/kg diets. However,

when the DS and RS groups were offered the 5 and 10g Na/kg diets versus the 0.1g Na/kg diet, both

groups showed a significant (p 6

ng/mL (normal


26/29


DRY VS. CANNED FOOD: EFFECTS ON DENTAL HEALTH, FEED INTAKE AND

BODY WEIGHT OF CATS

Gore, A.M., D. Lawler, R.Wilson, J. Ballam. Ralston Purina Company, St. Louis MO.

A total of 30 adult American Shorthair cats were used in a 1 year study to evaluate effects

feeding dry and canned foods on dental health, feed intake and body weight. Assessment of

dental health was made using a modified version of the index system developed by Silness and

Loe (1964). Plaque/calculus and gingival indexes were used as the measurement criteria for

dental health. Plaque/calculus and gingival indexes were measured at 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

Daily feed intake and weekly body weights were also measured. Cats fed the dry diet showed

significantly lower (P


27/29


EFFECTS OF DIETS ON POST-PRANDIAL BLOOD GLUCOSE IN DOGS.

J.R. Jackson, D.P. Laflamme. Ralston Purina Company, St.Louis, Missouri

Dietary fiber has been shown to affect digestive function. Dietary fiber is thought to affect

digestion by slowing absorption of nutrients and decreasing fluctuations in blood glucose. The

objective of this study was to determine the effect of diets containing moderate levels of dietary

fiber on post-prandial serum glucose, insulin, cholesterol and triglycerides in dogs.

Two diets providing different levels and sources of dietary fiber were evaluated: Diet 1, mixed

fiber diet (beet pulp/barley/pea fiber) and Diet 2, insoluble fiber diet (peanut hulls). Twelve

healthy adult English Setters were randomly assigned to one of two dietary treatments. Each diet

was fed for 9 days per dietary treatment in a crossover design. After 9 days of diet acclimation,

pre- and serial post-prandial blood samples were collected to determine concentrations of

glucose, insulin, triglycerides and total cholesterol. Diet 1 contained less crude, total and

insoluble dietary fiber but more soluble fiber than Diet 2.

Over all time periods, the area under the glucose curve was significantly less for Diet 1 (mixed

fiber- beet pulp/barley/pea fiber) than Diet 2 (peanut hulls). No differences were found between

diets for peak glucose values or time to peak and values at 0.5 hours were significantly higher

(p


28/29


LONGTERM JEJUNOSTOMY TUBE FEEDING IN CATS WITH PANCREATIC OR

HEPATOBILIARY DISEASE. Jennifer J. Devey, Dennis T. Crowe, Jr. Veterinary Institute of Trauma,

Emergency and Critical Care. Milwaukee, WI

Enteral nutrition has been shown to be an important therapeutic intervention in the critically ill patient.

Feeding the upper gastrointestinal tract may be contraindicated in the patient with pancreatic or

hepatobiliary disease due to persistent vomiting and the need to avoid pancreatic stimulation.

Jejunostomy feeding tubes were placed in 7 cats during exploratory laparotomy. Histopathologic

diagnoses were hepatic lipidosis (5), cholestasis and pancreatic edema (1), and pancreatic

adenocarcinoma (1). Cats ranged in age from 6 months to 11 years and in weight from 2.1 to 6.4 kg. A

3.5 or 5 Fr polyvinylchloridea or red rubberb tube were surgically placed without complication through an

ostomy in the proximal jejunum. A commercial liquid diet was fed via the tube starting in the immediate

postoperative period with a constant rate infusion. Minor complications were seen in 3 patients. One had

reflux of the liquid diet into the stomach which resolved when the volume of diet fed was decreased.

One cat chewed through the skin exit site (day 41), and 3 had tube obstructions (1 associated with the

liquid diet and 2 due to infusion of crushed medications). Tube obstructions were relieved in 2 patients

with the use of either Coca Cola or a wire stylet. Jejunostomy tube feeding was used until the time of

death in 2 cats (day 2 and day 8) and until tube obstruction in 1 cat (day 7). In the remaining 4 cats, tube

feeding was used for 12 to 41 days. All patients fed using the tubes at home had normal levels of

activity. All tubes were easily removed when no longer needed and ostomy wounds healed by second

intention without complication. Jejunostomy feeding tubes were shown in this study to be a useful

means of providing longterm nutrition to the cat with hepatobiliary or pancreatic disease.

a Argyle Feeding Tube, Sherwood Medical, St. Louis, MO

b Sovereign Feeding Tube, Sherwood Medical, St. Louis, MO


29/29

EFFECT OF A CLINICAL NUTRITION ELECTIVE ON SELF-EFFICACY

ASSESSMENT FOR NUTRITION SKILLS Abood S.K.1, Roudebush P.2, Mannella C.2, andKrehbiel J.D.3 Ralston Purina Company1, Mark Morris Institute2 and Michigan State University3

The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of nutrition education received during

a 3-week clinical nutrition clerkship, by evaluating the perceived self-efficacy (self confidence)

of veterinary students. Utilizing a scale from 0 (no confidence) to 10 (extremely confident), the

survey evaluated each participants own confidence level regarding nutrition-related skills in the

areas of history acquisition and physical evaluation, interpretation of findings, treatment of sick

animals, advice for healthy pets, and evaluating new information. Students (n=28) enrolled in

the Small Animal Clinical Nutrition Clerkship at Michigan State Universitys College of

Veterinary Medicine were asked to complete the 29-question self-efficacy survey on the first day,

and again on the last day, of the elective. Students enrolled in the Clinical Pathology Clerkship

(n=10) served as a control group by completing this same nutrition self-assessment survey.

Significant increases (p

neutering weight

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