Proper and adequate nutrition is essential for dogs and cats of all ages to enable their bodies to grow, repair worn-out parts, and perform normal life activities. Especially in sick animals and during recovery from illness or after surgery. I really want it
Most sick animals during recovery are undernourished due to decreased appetite associated with illness, resulting in weight loss, loss of muscle mass, and impaired immune and metabolic functions.
As the body of an animal becomes ill, its energy and nutrient requirements increase, causingMalnutrition It increases the risk of further illnesses and complications and increases the mortality rate. Therefore, today, Taling Chan Animal Hospital will tell you about important nutrients for sick animals.
Important nutrients in food for convalescent animals
1. Essential amino acids (essential amino acid) Such as Glutamine, Arginine, branched-chain amino acid (BCAA), Isoleucine, and others.
Glutamine – It is a precursor nutrient for intestinal cells (enterocytes), immune cells, and is an important part of the process of converting protein into glucose (gluconeogenesis).
Arginine – It affects the functioning of the body's immune system, helps wounds heal faster, and is an important part of protein production. It plays an important role in the urea cycle, which helps eliminate nitrogenous wastes.
2. Omega 3 fatty acids Such as Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) – It is a nutrient that helps reduce inflammation and increase immunity.
3. Omega 6 fatty acids Such as Arachidonic Acid (AA) – is a component of the phospholipid layer of the cell membrane. It is involved in wound healing, where EPA (from omega 3) and AA (from omega 6) help reduce the inflammatory process. (inflammation) and stimulate the body's immune system to work more.
*By omega 6 fatty acids : The ideal ratio of omega 3 for reducing inflammation is 5:1 – 10:1*.
Do dogs and cats need the same nutrients?
Dogs and cats have different nutritional needs.Especially protein becauseCats are obligate carnivores. Therefore, they require a higher amount of protein than dogs that are facultative carnivores.
Some nutrients in dogs include: Taurine orNon-essential amino acids are also essential amino acids. (essential amino acid) in cats because cats cannot convert Methionine to Cystine. It is the same as in dogs and cannot convert Linoleic acid to Arachidonic acid. Furthermore, dog and cat food preferences differ in smell, taste, and texture.
Information from:
Dr.Sasipat Kittisarathamma (Dr.Mook)
Internal Medicine Center, Ultrasound Center
Veterinarian, Taling Chan Animal Hospital
English