About this Research Topic

Background

The worldwide human population is expected to reach 9 billion by the year 2050 with a resulting increase in demand for food. The effects of this on the future of pet food has not been widely focused on. To optimize nutrition for dogs and cats, we need to have a more thorough understanding of basic physiology and nutritional biochemistry of dogs and cats, the effects of macro and micronutrients on canine and feline metabolism, and novel ingredients to support the health and well-being of dogs and cats. Given that the 2018 global population of dogs was 470 million and cats was 370 million, the ingredient demand for pet food will inevitably play a role in the distribution of food and feed across the food chain. This special issue should address new information that can help pet owners, veterinarians, and the pet food industry continue to innovate how we feed and manage our companion animals in the future.

The goal of this article collection is to showcase novel ways to support innovation of pet food and dietary management of dogs and cats in relation to the following areas:

- Physiology of cats and/or dogs or model species
- The effects of macronutrient intake on the digestion, metabolism and health of dogs and cats
- The effects of micronutrients on the digestion, metabolism and health of dogs and cats
- Novel ingredients to support the health and well-being of dogs and cats
- Consumer and veterinarian acceptance of innovation in pet food and nutrition management


Dr. Shoveller provides scientific consulting for Trouw Nutrition and has research funds from: Champion Pet Foods, Saskatchewan Pulse, JM Smuckers , Emmert, and RC Hagen.
Dr. Trevizan has research funds from Kemin.

Keywords: #CollectionSeries, Dog, Cat, Horse, Model Species, Nutrition, Management, Welfare, Health

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