The term “pet functional food” typically refers to pet foods that are formulated to provide specific health benefits beyond basic nutritional requirements. These functional foods often contain added ingredients with functional properties, such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, probiotics, prebiotics, and other bioactive compounds that can support the overall well-being and health of pets.

Dogs and Functional Foods

Numerous studies have investigated the impact of functional foods on dog nutrition, revealing diverse health benefits. For instance, dietary interventions, including oligofructose-enriched and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) diets, have shown positive effects on gut health in dogs. Additionally, specific diets enriched with antioxidants demonstrated improvements in oxidative balance, fertility, and cognitive functions. Peas were identified as a low-glycemic index component suitable for balanced diets. Studies also explored the influence of functional diets on various health aspects, such as otitis externa symptoms and halitosis reduction. Notably, immune-modulating diets displayed effectiveness in regulating immune responses in dogs with conditions like Leishmaniasis. Palatability studies emphasized the importance of stabilized rice bran in canine diets, indicating its tolerance and positive impact on nutrient digestibility without adverse effects. These findings collectively suggest the potential of functional foods as alternatives for managing various health issues in dogs.

Cats and Functional Foods

In the world of pet nutrition, cats have unique dietary needs as carnivorous animals. Researchers have explored specific functional foods for cats, as detailed in Table 2. For instance, a study examined the impact of a highly digestible diet with varying fat levels on 55 cats with chronic diarrhea. Surprisingly, both high (10%) and low (23%) fat diets showed similar efficacy, challenging the notion that fat content is a key factor in managing cat diarrhea (Laflamme et al., 2011).

In a randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical trial involving 60 pet cats with chronic diarrhea (55 completed the study), two diets were tested over a 6-week period (Laflamme et. al., 2011). Owners recorded daily fecal scores using a scale ranging from 0 (very watery) to 100 (firm and dry). After the trial, attending veterinarians reevaluated the cats. The results showed significant improvement in fecal scores, with 78.2% of cats experiencing a positive change of at least 25 points or achieving a final fecal score of at least 66. More than one-third of the cats developed normal stools. Interestingly, there were no discernible differences in clinical responses between the two diets, and improvements were observed as early as the first week, reaching maximum efficacy within three weeks.

Dietary management is beneficial for cats with chronic diarrhea, regardless of dietary fat content. If no improvement occurs within three weeks, additional evaluation is recommended.

When considering supplements for your pet’s food, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian to ensure you make informed decisions tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Consult with a Veterinarian: Before introducing any supplements, seek advice from your veterinarian. They can assess your pet’s health, diet, and potential deficiencies to recommend suitable supplements.
2. Balanced Diet First: Ensure your pet is receiving a balanced and complete diet through their regular food. Supplements should complement, not replace, essential nutrients provided by the main diet.
3. Individualized Approach: Every pet is unique, and their nutritional requirements may vary. Consider factors such as age, breed, size, and any existing health conditions when choosing supplements.
4. Quality Matters: Opt for high-quality supplements from reputable brands. Look for products that meet industry standards and have undergone testing for safety and efficacy.
5. Avoid Over-Supplementation: Providing excessive amounts of certain vitamins or minerals can be harmful. Stick to recommended doses and be cautious not to exceed safe levels.
6. Understand Ingredients: Familiarize yourself with the ingredients in both your pet’s regular food and any supplements. Ensure there is no overlap that could lead to an imbalance.
7. Monitor Changes: Keep a close eye on your pet’s behavior, coat condition, and overall health when introducing supplements. If you notice any adverse effects, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
8. Consider Specific Needs: Some pets may benefit from specific supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health or joint supplements for older animals. Again, tailor choices based on your pet’s individual requirements.
9. Regular Check-ups: Periodically reassess your pet’s nutritional needs with your veterinarian, especially if there are any changes in health, activity level, or diet.

Remember, while supplements can be beneficial, they should not replace a well-balanced and appropriate diet. Your veterinarian is your best resource for guidance on ensuring your pet receives the necessary nutrients for optimal health.

References:

• Laflamme, D.P., Xu, H. and Long, G.M. (2011), Effect of Diets Differing in Fat Content on Chronic Diarrhea in Cats. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 25: 230-235. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1939-1676.2010.0665.x
• A. Di Cerbo et al: Functional foods in pet nutrition: focus on dogs and cats