Theoretical evaluation of risk for nutritional deficiency with caloric restriction in dogs

Abstract

Background: Risk of nutrient deficiency in dogs during caloric restriction is not currently known, while obesity is a growing concern. Objectives: To determine nutrients that might require further evaluation for the risk of deficiency during caloric restriction. Animals and methods: Five commercially available canine diets, representing a range of caloric density (2900-4240 kcal/kg metabolizable energy), were assessed for potential nutrient inadequacy if fed to a hypothetical overweight dog. Caloric density and typical nutrient analysis for protein, amino acids, fat, fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins were obtained from the manufacturer. Nutrient intake was calculated using ideal body weight for caloric intakes including 87, 79, 70, 61 and 52 kcal/kg 0.75 and compared with National Research Council recommended nutrient allowances (NRC-RA) for ideal weight. Results: No diets were less than NRC-RA when compared to NRC-RA (/1000 kcal). The five evaluated diets varied in terms of which nutrients were less than NRC-RA and the degree of restriction required for this to occur. All diets had at least one essential nutrient less than NRC-RA at 79 kcal/kg 0.75 /day and multiple nutrients less than NRC-RA at 70 kcal/kg 0.75 /day. Choline and selenium were the nutrients most often affected by caloric restriction but others were less than the NRC-RA with caloric restriction. Conclusions: Further research is needed to determine actual nutrient requirements in overweight dogs, and whether clinical nutrient deficiencies actually arise in vivo. Clinical importance: Weight loss plans for overweight dogs (particularly those with very low-energy requirements) should include consideration for nutrient adequacy.

Status of selected nutrients in obese dogs undergoing caloric restriction

“…Given that the storage conditions of the current study were not optimized for either amino acid, we were concerned that results would not be reliable and, therefore, chose not to analyse them. This is a potential limitation, not least in light of a previous in silico study suggesting that both might be at risk of deficiency during caloric restriction [13]. As a result, a further study should be considered to assess these nutrients in dogs undergoing caloric restriction, using samples that have been appropriately prepared and analysed.…”

“…However, optimal nutrient density and levels of various nutrients of concern have not yet been determined. A recent in silico study highlighted the potential for nutrient deficiencies when using a range of diets at current levels of energy restriction [13]. However, arguably, in vivo studies are a better way of determining the existence of nutrient deficiencies.…”

Dietary Aspects of Weight Management in Cats and Dogs

“…Selenium and choline were the nutrients calculated most likely to be deficient. 10 This study was ex vivo, and results cannot be directly extrapolated to pets undergoing weight loss; however, results do suggest that there is potential for micronutrient deficiencies to develop in pets undergoing extreme calorie restriction. This study supports the need for careful consideration of nutrient/calorie ratios, with increasing scrutiny as calorie restriction intensifies.…”

“…10,11 Feeding less of the pet's diet may lead to food-seeking behaviors and leave the owner frustrated that the pet is hungry, while also increasing the risk of nutrient deficiency. 10 One key factor to consider when reducing energy intake is calorie density of the diet(s) to be fed.…”

“…One study evaluated the risk for development of hypothetical nutrient deficiencies using different degrees of calorie restriction with 5 commercial canine diets of variable calorie density (2 veterinary therapeutic weight loss diets and 3 OTC diets). 10 Multiple nutrients were determined to be less than the National Research Council Recommended Allowance for adult maintenance at varying levels of energy restriction, including resting energy requirement for ideal weight. Selenium and choline were the nutrients calculated most likely to be deficient.…”