Cat Food

Cats are obligate carnivores

Saturday, July 28, 2012.

Dr. Peterson's blog contains much information I find very relevant in practice on a daily basis.

The item  posted in its entirely below from his blog, in particular, is at the heart of many clinical problems I see in cats, directly related to diet.

The implication of the post for cat owners is to avoid  dry foods (carbohydrate).

• Meat is  Protein. 
• Cereals such as rice, oatmeal, wheat and others ( baked into kibble) and starchy veggies such as potatoes and corn,  are Carbohydrate.

Dr. Ena

Please read on........................................

 

Dr. Mark E. Peterson

Cats and Nutrition: Some Key Nutritional Facts

http://endocrinevet.blogspot.com/2012/07/cats-and-nutrition-some-key-nutritional.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+InsightsIntoVeterinaryEndocrinology+%28Insights+into+Veterinary+Endocrinology%29

I recently attended a lecture given by by Dr. Deb Zoran of Texas A&M University on the topic of "Protein: the Key to Metabolism, Health, and Management of Obesity in Cats." As you may already know, Deb wrote one of the seminal articles about feline nutrition now over a decade ago (1), and she is a world renowned expert on nutritional needs of cats and how to feed them (2-4). She is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (currently the President-elect) and also has a PhD in Nutrition.

In this blog post and the next, I'd like to share some of what I learned from Deb's excellent presentation. If you care for cats in your practice, this is all important to know, no matter what the clinical problem.

Feline Nutrition
Cats are obligate carnivores. This statement is news to no one, and yet we often don’t recognize the importance of that statement or feed them accordingly. While cats can use carbohydrates as a source of metabolic energy, they have no requirement for them (nor do dogs for that matter). But, more importantly, because cats evolved consuming prey (e.g., high protein, low to moderate fat, minimal carbohydrate), they are metabolically adapted for higher protein metabolism and lower carbohydrate utilization.

What does that mean metabolically and nutritionally? There are a number of specific metabolic and biochemical differences in feline physiology that are important. This is very important to consider when treating many feline endocrine disorders, especially diabetes and hyperthyroidism.

Cats and Nutrition: Some Key Nutritional Facts

• Cats have an obligate need for protein and amino acids in their daily diet because they are unable to down regulate their urea cycle or transaminases (protein conversion to energy) as other species can in times of starvation.
• Cats utilize protein for energy, even in the face of large amounts of carbohydrates in the diet.
• Taurine, arginine, methionine, cysteine, and possibly carnitine requirements for cats are greater than non-carnivores.
• Arachidonic acid is also an essential fatty acid in cats (it is not in dogs), and is found only in fats from animal tissue.
• Cats require vitamin A and D to be present in the active form in their diet as they are unable to synthesize adequate amounts from other dietary precursors (e.g., carotenoids or vitamin D precursors in skin).
• Cats have an increased need for many B vitamins in their diet (e.g., thiamin, pyridoxine, niacin, pantothenic acid) as they have greater metabolic needs for these vitamins and cannot synthesize or get them from other sources.
• Salivary amylase is absent in cats, and they have greatly reduced levels of intestinal and pancreatic amylases – so carbohydrate digestion is much less efficient.
• Cats have fewer disaccharidases and other brush border enzymes in their small intestine designed to digest and absorb starches.
• The small intestine of cats is much shorter than that of an equally sized omnivore – longer GI tracts are necessary for handling of complex carbohydrates.
• Cats have greatly reduced activities of hepatic enzymes (e.g., glucokinase) designed to convert a post prandial glucose load to glycogen and thus are less able to handle this glucose load.
• There are no fructokinases in cats – they are unable to utilize fructose and other simple sugars.

My Bottom Line

What this list clearly points out that is that cats are not designed to eat carbohydrates as a source of metabolic energy. Instead, cats are metabolically adapted for higher protein metabolism and lower carbohydrate utilization. Therefore, why aren't we all recommending diets (low carb, higher protein) that better meet their needs, and feed cats what they were designed to eat?

References:

1. Zoran DL. The carnivore connection to nutrition in cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 2002;221:1559-1567. 
2. Zoran DL, Buffington CAT. Effects of nutritional factors and lifestyle choice on the health and well-being of indoor cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 2011;239:596-606. 
3. Zoran DL. The unique nutritional needs of the cat. In: Ettinger SJ, Feldman EC (eds). Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 7th edition. Saunders Elsevier, 2010;652-659. 
4. Zoran DL. Obesity in dogs and cats: a metabolic and endocrine disorder. Veterinary Clinics of North America Small Animal Practice 2010 Mar;40:221-39. 

Obesity is defined as an accumulation of excessive amounts of adipose tissue (fat) in the body, and has been called the most common nutritional disease of dogs (and cats) in Western countries. Most investigators agree that at least 33% of the dogs (and cats) presented to veterinary clinics are obese, and that the incidence is increasing as human obesity increases in the overall population. Obesity is not just the accumulation of large amounts of adipose tissue, but is associated with important metabolic and hormonal changes in the body, which are the focus of this review. Obesity is associated with a variety of conditions, including osteoarthritis, respiratory distress, glucose intolerance and diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dystocia, decreased heat tolerance, some forms of cancer, and increased risk of anesthetic and surgical complications. Prevention and early recognition of obesity, as well as correcting obesity when it is present, are essential to appropriate health care, and increases both the quality and quantity of life for pets.

http://endocrinevet.blogspot.com/ Obesity Epidemic Expanding in Dogs and Cats Posted: 19 Mar 2013 04:44 PM PDT The rates of overweight and obesity in dogs and cats in the U.S. continued to increase in 2012, with the number of overweight cats reaching an all-time high. Results of the sixth annual National Pet Obesity Awareness Day Survey, conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), revealed that 52.5% of dogs and 58.3% of cats were overweight or obese (Figure 1). That equals approximately 80 million U.S. dogs and cats at increased risk for weight-related disorders such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, hypertension, and many cancers. Figure 1. Incidence of overweight and obesity in cats and dogs (from APOP website). As Dr. Ernie Ward, APOP’s founder and lead veterinarian for the survey states. “Pet obesity remains the leading health threat to our nation’s pets. We continue to see an escalation in the number of overweight cats and an explosion in the number of type 2 diabetes cases.” And veterinary endocrinologist and APOP board member Dr. Mark Peterson agrees: “The soaring rate of feline and canine obesity is taking a terrible toll on our animals’ health. There is a vast population of overweight cats and dogs facing an epidemic of diabetes. The best preventive measure a pet owner can make is to keep their dog or cat at a healthy weight. Diabetes is far easier to prevent than treat, especially when twice daily insulin injections are needed.” For more information about the 2012 National Pet Obesity survey results or the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention in general, please visit their website at www.petobesityprevention.com.

Useful resource on cat nutrition : http://www.catinfo.org/

Calorie counting for your kitty

Allergies....rashes and hot spots

Helping Fido and Kitty stop scratching & itching.

                                                                               © Madrabothair | Dreamstime.com

 I am afraid I might be allergic to allergies.

 If my patients have to get sick... I prefer they get a disease for which there is one known cause, which I can cure and which never comes back. Diseases like that can make us vets feel like heroes. Unfortunately, allergies are not one of those, and though itchy skin is not fatal-- it sure is miserable.

The term used to describe inhaled environmental allergies in dogs and people is atopy.

The good news is  that we can help Fido and Kitty feel much more comfortable-we know how to manage atopy in pets. The bad news is: atopy is a chronic relapsing disease.

If neglected or mismanaged Fido will suffer from rashes, hot spots, ear infections, hair loss, skin infections, smells and misery or  side effects of chronic use of cortico-steroids and other
 immuno-suppresive drugs we do our absolute best to minimize or avoid

 You see.... short of switching out Fido's DNA for genes which do not predispose him to allergies, and short of asking you to pack Kitty and Fido and move them to  the moon-- there is not much that can be done to  cure them of allergies. We can't change our pets' genetic predisposition to allergies, yet.

But we might be able to help by thoroughly assessing your pet's diet and eliminating unsuspected allergens. Our comprehensive understanding of nutrition and a biochemistry degree allow us to have an extraordinarily thorough understanding of food allergens and the various ways they can cross react with inhalant allergens.

Although we will not eliminate grass, weeds, tree pollen, dust mites, mold, human dander, wool, fleas, bacteria, yeast, chemicals and perfumes from our planet--especially from the part of the planet known as Southern California, where our warm sunny weather and air pollution create perfect allergy conditions.  But, we might be able to affect the overactive immune system by desensitization, as we will describe below.

Let's define what an allergy or atopy is. Then we will offer some thoughts on helping dogs' itchy scratchy skin.

Atopic allergies are an immunological overreaction (hypersensitivity) of the allergy patient to common stuff in their environment.

 Our and our pets' immune system's job is to destroy bad things like viruses, bacteria, fungi,  parasites and  abnormal cells (cancer). The immune system is an amazing army  capable of exquisite communication, coordination and amplification of soldiers orchestrating destruction of things "out- to- get- us". In the genetically sensitive individuals, however, the immune system gets "confused" and begins to overreact to proteins on stuff (pollen, dandruff, dust mites etc) which is " not- out- to- get- them". We call these proteins allergens or antigens.

White blood cells (WBC) known as lymphocytes, or T-cells and B-cells,  make a type of antibody known as IgE . When an IgE antibody encounters an allergen whose shape "fits" ( in a similar way that a key fits only the one lock) the two bind. Binding of antigens to IgE on mast cells  triggers release of irritating chemicals like histamine and other inflammatory cytokines.

image of a mast cell courtesy of http://www.nutritionreview.org

This leads to itching, redness, irritation, and swelling or inflammation.
When the pet scratches, bites and licks, the inflamed itchy skin gets secondary opportunistic bacterial and fungal infections, which exacerbate the itching, scratching,  licking....odors and discomfort....and the cycle continues, getting worse and worse.


While the symptoms of atopy in people are  hay fever, eczema or asthma,  and while dogs and cats do get  bronchitis and asthma, just like people; the symptoms of atopy or atopic dermatitis in dogs unlike people are instead: itchy feet, itchy faces, itchy arm pits, itchy butts, itchy ears & ear infections.
The reason for this is that  mast cells are concentrated in those areas of dogs' skin unlike people, whose mast cells tend to occupy the nasal sinuses and the respiratory tract. 

These symptoms usually are first noticed between one and three years of age. They are often seasonal ( at least at first), but can become year-round in Southern California.
Kitty is more challenging and symptoms of allergies are different than dogs. Cats tend to develop respiratory signs such as feline asthma frequently and the distribution of skin leasions is different than dogs.  Please see the veterinary partner link below.

http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&A=597

If your pet is diagnosed with atopy at a young age,
if you are not entertaining plans to move to the moon or any other geographic area in the near future,
if  you have done your best to reduce allergens in the environment,
if you have tried frequent baths, antihistamines, omega 3 fatty acids
.....but are finding yourself or your veterinarian administering corticosteroids.........whether in the form of injections or pills--it is worth considering testing and hyposensitization/ desensitization.

The purpose of desensitization is to "reprogram" the immune system-- rendering it less reactive to antigens. A blood test is drawn to identify the antigens in our hospital. A specialist in dermatology can do a slightly more accurate test (intradermal allergy test) in which more allergens are tested, by injecting tiny amounts into the skin and examining it for wheal reactions. Once the antigens are identified, gradually increasing amounts are injected at home in a "cocktail. Initially injections are administered every other day and gradually reduced to one every three weeks.
The likelihood of success is 70-85% similar to people undergoing this therapy for allergies.

The laboratory we use for our tests and antigen cocktails: http://www.varlallergy.com/8.html

We have yet to run into a person who is not scared of giving their pet shots, as well as a person who in spite of initial reservations just can't do them. Most are surprised at how easy shots are to give with a bit of practice, and how little the pets mind them, especially if coupled with a treat.
The beauty of successful desensitization is that it is free of side effects seen with other drugs used on a chronic basis, and in the right patients are much less expensive and effective than repeatedly treating allergic flair ups with corticosteroid injections, antibiotics, antifungals, home remedies, lotions, potions and pills.

Many pets are helped considerably by frequent baths. Antigens adhere to hair and skin accumulating over time. It has been demonstrated that some allergens are absorbed through the skin. Frequent baths reduce the antigen exposure and provide temporary relief usually lasting several days, without the use of any drugs. We stock professional medical shampoos formulated for soothing, cleansing, hydrating and controlling itching. Since dogs' skin doesn't produce oils in sufficient amounts to moisturize their skin, when bathed frequently, it is important to follow baths with a good moisturizing conditioner to prevent over drying  of the skin, which will exacerbate itching.  We advise against blow drying for the same reason.

Systemic and topical antibiotics and anti fungals are used frequently on atopy patients who have been scratching or licking. We all have small number of bacteria and yeast coexisting happily on the surface of our skin, but moist inflamed skin with a defective barrier invites these normally harmless organisms to become opportunistic invaders. If you are smelling an odor on the pet it is likely your pet has an infection-healthy tissues don't smell. If you are seeing a brownish discharge on the nails, hair, skin or inside the ears, you might be seeing and smelling a common fungal (yeast) called Malassezia. The most common bacterial pathogen we see is Staphylococcus.
Once either causes an infection, they worsen the symptoms and  require topical and systemic treatment.

Omega-3-Fatty Acids found in oily fish such as salmon reduce inflammation of the skin in allergic patients ( as well as arthritic joints)  restore deficiencies of the lipid barrier in skin cells, and are synergistic with antihistamines.
We like Super Omega 3 by Carlson http://www.carlsonlabs.com/p-4-super-omega-3-gems.aspx   (dosing one capsule for 25lbs of body weight daily)
 or Nordic Naturals  http://www.nordicnaturals.com/petVet/nnpet_collection.php 
Both of these companies are committed to ensuring purity and potency, unlike products found in big box stores.

Antihistamines  block the histamine release from mast cells, and are effective in about a third of our patients. We suggest trying the older ones first, because in reducing sedative properties in newer generation antihistamines, the potency of reducing itching is also reduced. Also, with the exception of Benadryl, the other antihistamines don't seem to cause sedation in pets like they do in people. The following are worth trying: Clemastine (generic Tavist), chlorpheniramine (generic Chlor-trimeton), Zyrtec, Benadryl, Claritin. Generic antihistamines are as effective as brand names, and should always be tried with a good quality omega-3-fatty acid supplement. We suggest trying each for three weeks before deciding if it is effective. If the one being tried does not reduce itching in three weeks, try another, just like people with allergies try several before finding one effective for them.
  Given the relative lack of side effects even if taken long term (compared to corticosteroids) they are definitely worth trying.
 Be sure to avoid combination allergy drugs which combine antihistamines with decongestants and pain relievers--they are toxic to pets!

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid antioxidant found in pigments of plants. It is believed to stabilize mast cell membranes, preventing them from rupturing and releasing the inflammatory, allergy-symptom-causing  histamine into the surrounding blood and tissue in response to the IgE antibody. Its absorption is enhanced by bromelain.
We order our quercetin from Thorne Research: http://www.thorne.com/Products/Antioxidants-Flavonoids/Flavonoids/prd~SB330.jsp

Corticosteroids are potent antiinflammatory agents often used to treat patients with atopy by injection or  in pill form. All steroids (dexamethasone, triamcinolone/ Vetalog, prednisone, prednisolone, Temaril-P)  reduce itching very quickly by suppressing lymphocytes, thereby decreasing inflammation and providing quick relief, but they vary in their potency and duration of effects. Though quite useful short term for temporary relief of itching,  they can be terribly harsh drugs when used chronically. As we already know atopy is a chronic disease, therefore we can't rely on steroids to be the cornerstone of treatment. Their long term use should be avoided due to well known side effects of adrenal suppression, osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, weight gain, changes in the liver, predisposition to infections, and skin and hair texture changes. I do use steroids in patients for short term relief and  when everything more holistic has been tried and failed, especially if the pet is not very young.  On occasion topical steroids, with limited systemic side effects,  can be a useful adjunct for spot-treatment.   

Flea allergies throw a well managed atopic off course. Because allergic pets over react to many many allergens, it is very important that rigorous flea control is practiced. The effort invested in keeping an atopic patient's symptoms under control will be wasted by a single flea bite!

Cyclosporine (Atopica) was introduced as a treatment for allergies in dogs a few years ago. Its original use was as an anti-rejection drug in transplant patients. Although cyclosporine does not cause the same side effects as corticosteroids, when used long term,  the drug can cause nausea, and is more expensive than conrticosteroids.  Having said that, our local dermatology specialist who has been using the drug for over a decade feels it to be a very effective addition in our allergy tool box.
  

We usually examine the pets' diet in evaluating pets with skin diseases.
Food allergies  overlap with atopy in location on the dog's body and appearance, and can be challenging to diagnose.  There are no accurate blood tests for food allergies in pets--diagnosis rests on documented,  limited ingredient elimination diet trials.

Food allergies are seen with a fair frequency-they typically do not respond to corticosteroids and are present constantly without a seasonal pattern.  Even if your pet does not suffer from a food allergy ( and  though improving your pets' diet will not cure atopy)  a dietary evaluation is important because poor diet will make treatment of atopy very difficult, if not impossible. Wholesome nutrients, vitamins and minerals are needed for healing injured tissues and for optimal immune system function.

Our favorite diets for allergic pets are usually formulated with limited ingredients, do not contain genetically modified grains such as corn and soy, and often contain fish to increase the omega-3-fatty acids.

One commercial diet I find worth trying Fido on to help with allergies: http://www.wellnesspetfood.com/product-details.aspx?pet=dog&pid=72&dm=grainfree

Some tips to reduce  exposure to allergens in environment:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/allergy/HQ01514/

Dust mites

Encase mattresses and pillows in vinyl or semipermeable covers; wash all bedding every one to two weeks in hot water at least 54.4°C (130°F); other desirable measures include: reducing indoor humidity to less than 50 percent; removing carpet from the bedroom and carpet over concrete; avoid lying or sleeping on upholstered furniture.

Human or other animal dander

Keep pets away from the bedroom, carpeted areas, and upholstered furniture.

Cockroaches

Use chemical control measures and remove sources of food and water.

Pollens and outdoor molds

Avoid outdoor activities when pollen and spore counts are elevated.

Indoor mold

Eliminate water leaks and damp areas associated with mold growth; consider reducing indoor humidity to less than 50 percent.

Tobacco

Avoid exposure to active and passive tobacco smoke.

Air pollution

Consider limiting outdoor activities when air pollution levels are high. HEPA filters

http://www.aafp.org/afp/2002/0801/p421.html (modified for allergic pets rather than people allergic To pets :-)

Dr. Wayne Rosenkrantz, a respected board certified specialist in veterinary dermatology discusses atopy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hrg62qxPY30
Animal Dermatology Clinic2965 Edinger Ave
Tustin, California 92780 
Phone: (949) 936-0066
Fax: (949) 936-0071
Email: infotustin@adcmg.com
http://www.animaldermatology.com/location/10/Animal-Dermatology-Clinic