Evaluation of graded levels of Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 on apparent nutrient digestibility,stool quality,and intestinal health indicators in healthy adult dogs

Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 is a commercially available spore-forming non-toxigenic microorganism approved for use in dog foods with high resiliency to stresses associated with commercial manufacturing. The objectives of this research were to examine the effect of B. coagulans on stool quality, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal health markers in healthy adult dogs. Extruded diets containing graded levels of B. coagulans applied either to the base ration before extrusion or to the exterior of the kibble as a topical coating after extrusion were randomly assigned to 10 individually housed adult beagle dogs (7 castrated males and 3 spayed females) of similar age (5.75 ± 0.23 yr) and body weight (12.3 ± 1.5 kg). The study was designed as a 5 × 5 replicated Latin square with 16-d adaptation followed by 5-d total fecal collection for each period. Five dietary treatments were formulated to deliver a dose of 0-, 6-, 7-, 8-, and 9-log₁₀ colony-forming units (CFU) per dog per day for the control (CON), extruded B. coagulans (PEX), and low, moderate, and high B. coagulans coating levels (PCL, PCM, and PCH), respectively. Food-grade TiO₂ was added to all diets at a level of 0.4% to serve as an indigestible dietary marker for digestibility calculations. Data were analyzed using a mixed model through SAS (version 9.4, SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC) with treatment as a fixed effect and room (i.e., replicate), period, and dog(room) as random effects. Apparent total tract digestibility of organic matter, crude protein, crude fat, and gross energy calculated by the marker method were numerically greatest for dogs fed the 9-log₁₀ dose treatment with increases (P < 0.05) observed in gross energy and organic matter digestibility compared with the negative control. No significant differences were observed in food intake, stool quality, fecal pH, fecal ammonia, fecal short-chain fatty acids, or branched-chain fatty acids for the extruded B. coagulans treatment (PEX) or the coated B. coagulans treatments (PCL, PCM, and PCH) compared with CON. These results suggest that B. coagulans has a favorable impact on nutrient digestibility and no apparent adverse effects when added to extruded diets at a daily intake level of up to 9-log₁₀ CFU in healthy adult dogs.     

Evaluation of stabilized rice bran as an ingredient in dry extruded dog diets

The objectives of this research were to examine the palatability of stabilized rice bran (SRB) when included in a dry canine diet, and to determine the effects of SRB on food intake, digestion, fecal characteristics, blood lipid characteristics, and selected immune mediators. Experiment 1 tested the palatability of SRB. Diets contained poultry fat in Test 1 and soybean oil in Test 2, in conjunction with either 12% SRB or 12% defatted rice bran (DRB, as-fed basis), and were fed to 20 dogs. Diets contained approximately 32% protein and 22% fat (DM basis). Food intake data were collected and intake ratios calculated (grams of SRB diet consumed divided by total consumed of both diets). Intake ratios were 0.73 for Test 1 (P < 0.01) and 0.61 for Test 2 (P < 0.14) for SRB diets. Diets in Exp. 2 contained 12% SRB or DRB (as-fed basis), and poultry fat, beef tallow, or poultry fat:soybean oil (50:50) as the main fat sources, and were fed to 36 beagles. Diets contained approximately 32% protein and 22% fat (DM basis). The effects of SRB and DRB were determined on food intake, digestibility, fecal characteristics, and blood fatty acid, phospholipid, and eicosanoid concentrations. No differences were noted in food intake, digestibility, or fecal characteristics. Fat sources contributed much more to dietary fat than rice bran source; therefore, fat source profiles overwhelmed the rice bran source contribution. Dogs consuming a DRB diet had lower (P < 0.050) plasma phospholipid total monounsaturated fatty acids compared with those consuming a SRB diet (-1.17 vs. 0.95%, respectively), whereas plasma fatty acid concentrations tended (P < 0.119) to decrease more than with SRB diets. Total concentrations of red blood cell phospholipid SFA tended (P < 0.15) to be greater in dogs consuming a beef tallow-containing diet compared with those consuming a poultry fat or poultry fat:soybean oil diet. Total concentrations of red blood cell phospholipid PUFA and n-6 PUFA tended to be greater (P < 0.097 and P < 0.083, respectively) in dogs consuming a poultry fat-containing diet than in those consuming a beef tallow-containing diet. Statistical differences and tendencies were detected in individual plasma fatty acids and plasma and red blood cell phospholipids due to rice bran source, fat source, and their interaction. Eicosanoid concentrations did not change due to treatment. Stabilized rice bran is a highly palatable ingredient when included in a dry dog diet, and did not elicit an effect on inflammatory immune mediators in healthy dogs.     

Influence of dirlotapide, a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitor, on the digestibility of a dry expanded diet in adult dogs

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of dirlotapide, a microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitor, on apparent nutrient digestibility of an expanded dry dog food, on defecation frequency and fecal consistency. Eighteen beagles were randomized to either placebo ( n  = 6) or dirlotapide ( n  = 12). Testing was divided into a 21-day adaptation phase (days −21 to −1) and a 35-day treatment (digestibility testing) phase (days 0–35). During the treatment phase, dogs were administered oral dirlotapide (0.3 mg/kg) or placebo (0.06 mL/kg) once daily. For digestibility testing, feces were collected over two periods for 7 days each starting on days −9 and 28. All dogs were fed a commercial adult dog food throughout the study. Food intake was adjusted to maintain body weight during adaptation, followed by pair-feeding placebo dogs the amount of food ingested by the dirlotapide dogs during the treatment period. Dogs in both groups had reduced food intake and lost similar amounts of body weight during treatment. Dogs receiving 0.3 mg dirlotapide/kg once daily had a small but significant ( P  = 0.018) decrease (6.16 ± 2.22%, mean ± SD) in crude fat digestibility compared with the placebo-treated food-restricted dogs, but no difference in crude protein, dry matter, or energy digestibility was observed. Fecal consistency and volume and defecation frequency were similar between groups. Dirlotapide effectively reduced appetite and energy intake without affecting nutrient digestibility, except for a minimal decrease in fat digestibility.     

Nutrient digestibility and fecal characteristics,microbiota, and metabolites in dogs fed human-grade foods

Human-grade (HG) pet foods are commercially available, but they have not been well studied. Our objective was to determine the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of HG pet foods and evaluate their effects on fecal characteristics, microbiota, and metabolites, serum metabolites, and hematology of dogs. Twelve dogs (mean age = 5.5 ± 1.0; BW = 11.6 ± 1.6 kg) were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design (n = 12/treatment). The diets included 1) Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe (extruded; Blue Buffalo); 2) Roasted Meals Tender Chicken Recipe (fresh; Freshpet); 3) Beef and Russet Potato Recipe (HG beef; JustFoodForDogs); and 4) Chicken and White Rice Recipe (HG chicken; JustFoodForDogs). Each period consisted of 28 d, with a 6-d diet transition phase, 16 d of consuming 100% of the diet, a 5-d phase for fecal collection, and 1 d for blood collection. All data were analyzed using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS 9.4. Dogs fed the extruded diet required a higher (P < 0.05) daily food intake (dry matter basis, DMB) to maintain BW. The ATTD of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), energy, and acid-hydrolyzed fat (AHF) were greater (P < 0.05) in dogs fed the HG diets than those fed the fresh diet, and greater (P < 0.05) in dogs fed the fresh diet than those fed the extruded diet. Crude protein ATTD was lower (P < 0.05) for dogs fed the extruded diet than those fed all other diets. Dogs fed the extruded diet had greater (P < 0.05) fecal output (as-is; DMB) than dogs fed fresh (1.5–1.7 times greater) or HG foods (2.0–2.9 times greater). There were no differences in fecal pH, scores, and metabolites, but microbiota were affected by diet. Dogs fed HG beef had higher (P < 0.05) relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and lower (P < 0.05) relative abundance of Firmicutes than dogs fed the fresh or HG chicken diets. The Actinobacteria, Fusobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Spirochaetes phyla were unchanged (P > 0.05), but diet modified the relative abundance of nearly 20 bacterial genera. Similar to previous reports, these data demonstrate that the fecal microbiota of dogs fed HG or fresh diets is markedly different than those consuming extruded diets, likely due to ingredient, nutrient, and processing differences. Serum metabolites and hematology were not greatly affected by diet. In conclusion, the HG pet foods tested resulted in significantly reduced fecal output, were highly digestible, maintained fecal characteristics, serum chemistry, and hematology, and modified the fecal microbiota of dogs.     

Digestibility and safety of dry black soldier fly larvae meal and black soldier fly larvae oil in dogs

Two trials were conducted to assess the acceptance, safety and digestibility of diets containing various inclusion levels of partially defatted black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) meal and BSFL oil by dogs. In trial 1, 5 extruded diets were evaluated for acceptance in adult Beagle dogs (n = 20; 10 male, 10 female) during a 48-hr period. Diets contained graded levels of BSFL meal (5.0%, 10.0%, and 20.0%), or graded levels of BSFL oil (2.5% and 5.0%), and all diets were well accepted. Thus, a digestibility trial (trial 2) was run with 56 adult dogs (16 male, 40 female) allocated into 7 dietary treatments; dogs were offered an extruded control diet containing no BSFL meal or oil, or extruded diets where BSFL meal partially replaced poultry by-product meal and corn meal at dietary levels of 5%, 10%, or 20% inclusion, or diets with BSFL oil partially replacing poultry fat at a 1:1 ratio at levels of 1%, 2.5%, or 5% inclusion. The treatment diets were fed for 28 d, during which time dogs were monitored for health (via physical examinations, clinical observations, and blood chemistry and hematology) and ingredient evaluation (via body weight, feed consumption, stool observation, and fecal nutrient apparent total tract digestibility). There were no significant differences in body weight or food consumption between treatment groups (P > 0.05) and daily observations indicated that the general health of the animals was maintained throughout the study. Stool quality was maintained at 3.2 to 3.4 (on a 5-point scale with a score of 1 being watery diarrhea and a score of 5 being hard, dry, and crumbly) per treatment group over the fecal observation period (days 22 to 27), indicating a well formed, sticky stool. All group mean hematology and blood chemistry parameters remained within normal limits for dogs. Apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter, protein, fat, and calories was not affected by treatment (P > 0.05). In general, amino acid digestibility was not impacted by treatment although some minor changes were observed. Apparent total tract digestibility was high for all nutrients examined. Overall, it was concluded that BSFL meal and BSFL oil are well tolerated by dogs and their consumption results in no impact to physiology that would be concerning. Based on these data, BSFL meal and oil did not affect general health and could be included safely in dog diets.     

Digestibility,fecal characteristics,and plasma glucose and urea in dogs fed a commercial dog food once or three times daily

Digestibility, fecal characteristics, and levels of glucose and urea in the plasma were determined in 8 dogs that received 2 different dog foods once or 3 times daily. One dog food (A) was 5 times more expensive than the other (B). Fecal pH and consistency, digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), and crude fiber (CF) were determined. Blood samples were taken from 30 min before to 60 min after a meal. Digestibilities of DM, OM, and CP, and fecal consistency were higher, and daily fecal excretion and fecal pH were lower when dogs were fed food A (P < 0.001). The feeding schedule had no effect on plasma glucose and urea. Neither feeding frequency nor food × frequency interactions was significant for the parameters studied.     

不同水平豆粕鱼粉日粮对乌苏里貉营养利用率和体增重的影响

2012年7月24日至11月17日,对24只约9周龄的乌苏里貉饲喂不同蛋白源的等氮饲料,以探明不同水平豆粕和鱼粉日粮对貉营养物质利用率和体增重的影响。试验在遗传背景一致的前提下,将24只幼貉随机均分成4组,即Ⅰ、Ⅱ、Ⅲ和Ⅳ组,饲喂的蛋白饲粮分别添加豆粕0、10%、20%和30%,鱼粉和膨化玉米[m(鱼粉)∶m(膨化玉米)=35∶17]组成的混合物30%、20%、10%和0%。消化代谢试验依次包括预饲期、试验1期、间隔期和试验2期;体重的测定在试验1期和试验2期的第1天和第6天及之后每周周六上午饲喂前进行。试验结果表明:豆粕添加量为30%的Ⅳ组受试动物在试验1期干物质、脂肪和有机物的表观消化率显著低于其余3组(P<0.05),增重亦显著低于其余3组(P<0.05);在试验2期差距虽然缩小,但干物质与有机物的表观消化率依旧显著低于其余3组(P<0.05);豆粕添加量为10%时获得最大平均体重。     

Ileal and total tract nutrient digestibilities and fecal characteristics of dogs as affected by soybean protein inclusion in dry, extruded diets

Plant-based protein sources are generally less variable in chemical composition than animal-based protein sources. However, relatively few data are available on the nutrient digestibilities of plant-based protein sources by companion animals. The effects of including selected soybean protein sources in dog diets on nutrient digestion at the ileum and in the total tract, as well as on fecal characteristics, were evaluated. Six protein sources were used: soybean meal (SBM), Soyafluff 200W (soy flour), Profine F (traditional aqueous-alcohol extracted soy protein concentrate [SPC 1]), Profine E (extruded SPC [SPC 2]), Soyarich I (modified molecular weight SPC [SPC 3]), and poultry meal (PM). All diets were extruded and kibbled. Test ingredients varied in CP and fat contents; however, diets were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isocaloric. Nutrient intakes were similar, except for total dietary fiber (TDF), which was lower (P < 0.01) for dogs fed the PM diet. Apparent ileal digestibilities of DM, OM, fat, and TDF were not different among treatments; however, CP digestibility at the terminal ileum was higher (P < 0.01) for diets containing soy protein sources than for PM. Total tract CP digestibility was greater (P < 0.01) for soy protein-containing diets than for PM. Apparent total tract digestibilities of DM, OM, fat, and TDF were not different among treatments. Apparent amino acid digestibilities at the terminal ileum, excluding methionine, threonine, alanine, and glycine, were higher (P < 0.01) for soy protein-containing diets than for PM. Dogs fed SPC diets had lower (P < 0.01) fecal outputs (g asis feces/g DMI) than dogs fed the SF diet, and dogs fed SBM tended (P < 0.11) to have lower fecal outputs than dogs fed the SF diet. However, dogs fed the PM diet had lower (P < 0.03) fecal outputs than dogs fed SPC-containing diets. Fecal outputs and scores reflected the TDF and nonstructural carbohydrate contents of the soy protein fraction. Soy protein sources are well utilized by the dog prior to the terminal ileum, and SPC offers a viable alternative to PM as a protein source in dry, extruded canine diets.     

Effect of Different Ratios of Food to Water of Dry Powder Feed on Growth Performance，Nutrient Digestibility and Nitrogen Metabolism of Growing Wusuli Raccoon Dogs

This experiment was aimed to explore the effect of different ratios of food to water of dry powder feed on growth performance,nutrient digestibility and nitrogen metabolism of growing Wusuli raccoon dogs.Thirty 11-week-old healthy Wusuli raccoon dogs with average body weight of （3.47±0.20） kg were randomly assigned into 3 groups.The Wusuli raccoon dogs were fed experimental diets with dry powder feed of ratio of food to water of 1∶2.5 （group Ⅰ）,1∶3.5（group Ⅱ）,1∶4.5 （group Ⅲ）,respectively.The pre-test period lasted for 7 days and the trial period lasted for 67 days.The results showed that the average daily feed intake of each week from 11,12 to 13 weeks in groupⅠ was significantly less than that in groups Ⅱ and Ⅲ （P＜0.05）,the average daily feed intake of each week from 14,15 to 20 weeks was no significant difference among all groups （P＞0.05）.The total intake in group Ⅰ was significantly less than that in group Ⅱ （P＜0.05）.The average daily gain of each week from 15 to 17 weeks in group Ⅲ was significantly higher than that in group Ⅰ （P＜0.05）,while the average daily gain,total weight and the rate of feed intake to body gain in other week-old were no significant differences among all groups （P＞0.05）.The protein digestibility,fat digestibility and dry matter digestibility were no significant differences among all groups （P＞0.05）.The amount of urine in group Ⅲ was extremely significantly higher than that in groups Ⅰ and Ⅱ （P＜0.01）.The nitrogen intake,fecal nitrogen,urine nitrogen,nitrogen deposition,net protein utilization and biological value of protein were no significant differences among all groups （P＞0.05）.In conclusion,the appropriate ratios of food to water of dry powder feed of growing Wusuli raccoon dogs was 1∶3.5 to 1∶4.5.     

饲料调味剂对育成期蓝狐采食量、营养物质消化率、氮代谢及生长性能的影响

本试验旨在研究肝脏香、奶香、甜味剂和大肠香等4种饲料调味剂对育成期雄性蓝狐采食量、营养物质消化率、氮代谢和生长性能的影响。试验采用单因子试验设计,选取体况健康的育成期雄性蓝狐50只,随机分成5组,每组10个重复,每个重复1只。各组动物个体间体重差异不显著(P0.05)。对照组(Ⅰ组)饲喂基础饲粮,试验组(Ⅱ、Ⅲ、Ⅳ、Ⅴ组)分别饲喂在基础饲粮中添加肝脏香、奶香、甜味剂和大肠香饲料调味剂的试验饲粮,添加量分别为500、500、120、500 mg/kg。试验期为52 d。结果表明:1)与Ⅰ组相比,Ⅱ和Ⅳ组干物质采食量极显著提高(P0.01),Ⅲ组干物质采食量显著提高(P0.05)。2)与Ⅰ组相比,Ⅳ组干物质排出量显著降低(P0.05);Ⅱ、Ⅲ、Ⅳ、Ⅴ组干物质消化率分别提高了4.34%、9.07%、9.40%、5.23%,但差异不显著(P0.05);Ⅲ、Ⅳ、Ⅴ组蛋白质消化率极显著提高(P0.01);Ⅳ组脂肪消化率显著提高(P0.05)。3)与Ⅰ组相比,各试验组的食入氮、尿氮和蛋白质生物学价值差异不显著(P0.05);Ⅳ组粪氮显著降低(P0.05),氮沉积和净蛋白质利用率显著提高(P0.05)。4)各组蓝狐体重及总增重差异均不显著(P0.05);平均日增重各组之间差异不显著(P0.05),但以Ⅰ组最低,Ⅱ、Ⅲ、Ⅳ、Ⅴ组分别较Ⅰ组提高了7.99%、3.27%、6.19%、7.37%;料重比从低到高顺序依次为Ⅳ、Ⅲ、Ⅱ、Ⅴ、Ⅰ组,但各组之间差异不显著(P0.05)。在本试验条件下,饲粮中添加肝脏香、奶香、甜味剂3种调味剂均提高了蓝狐的干物质采食量和营养物质消化率,提高了饲料的利用率,其中以甜味剂效果最好。     

Alkanes as internal markers to estimate digestibility of hay or hay plus concentrate diets in horses.

Dry matter intake (DMI), dry matter digestibility (DMD), and fecal output (FO) are difficult to measure directly in the field, and indirect methods using external and internal markers have thus been developed. An experiment was conducted consisting of two digestion trials with two periods in each trial to examine the use of five odd-chain alkanes (C25 to C33) of plant cuticular wax as internal markers to estimate DMD of hay or hay plus concentrate diets in horses. Eight mature Thoroughbred geldings were housed in 4- x 4-m stalls and randomly assigned to one of two mixed grass/legume hays (Diets 1 and 2) in Trial 1 and to mixed grass/legume hay plus one of two concentrates (Diets 3 and 4) in Trial 2. After the first 12-d period was conducted, dietary assignments for each group were switched for the second period in each trial. Each period consisted of a dietary accommodation from d 1 to 7 and total fecal collection from d 8 to 11. Results indicated that fecal recoveries of odd-chain alkanes were 88 to 90% for Diet 1, 75 to 92% for Diet 2, 71 to 81% for Diet 3, and 71 to 82% for Diet 4. Alkane recoveries were not related to alkane chain lengths. Digestibilities calculated from alkane concentration data adjusted using the mean fecal recovery of individual odd-chain alkanes (DA1) were not significantly different from the digestibilities estimated from total collection (DTC) for Diets 1 and 2 in Trial 1 and Diets 3 and 4 in Trial 2. When adjustment was based on the mean recovery of all alkanes (DA2; estimated by linear regression), all DA2 estimates for horses offered all diets were similar to DTC. Results indicate that accurate mean estimates of DMD can be obtained by using plant wax alkane markers and adjusting for the mean recovery of five odd-chain alkanes in a diet.     

Comparative evaluation of net digestive and absorptive efficiency in dogs and cats fed a variety of contrasting diet types

Comparative net digestive and absorptive efficiency was assessed with adult Beagles and domestic cats by apparent digestibility assays. Eight foods were used comprising two canned dog foods; canned cat foods; two samples of semipurified diet; and single samples of experimental dry cat food and fresh mince. Apparent digestibility percentages of crude protein, fat, nitrogen-free extract (NFE) and gross energy were all significantly higher in dogs than cats. Mean values obtained for dogs were (per cent): crude protein 87; fat 92; NFE 70 and energy 89. Respective values for cats were 82, 76, 67 and 79. On average, dogs obtained 11 and 9 per cent more digestible energy and protein per unit food eaten than cats. Most digestibility characteristics of foods measured in cats were significantly correlated with those for dogs and regression equations are presented predicting digestibility in cats from dog data.     

Determination of true digestive utilization of phosphorus and the endogenous phosphorus outputs associated with soybean meal for growing pigs

The objectives of this study were to determine true P digestibility, the gastrointestinal endogenous P outputs associated with soybean meal (SBM), and the role of the large intestine in P digestion in growing pigs. Four Yorkshire barrows, with average initial and final BW of 40 and 58 kg, were fitted with a simple T-cannula at the distal ileum and fed four diets according to a 4 x 4 Latin square design. The diets were cornstarch-based and contained four levels of P (0.098, 0.196, 0.293, and 0.391% on a DM basis) from solvent-extracted conventional SBM. Chromic oxide (3.5 g/kg of diet, as-fed basis) was included as a digestibility marker. Each experimental period consisted of 8 d with a 4-d adaptation period and a 4-d collection of representative ileal digesta (2 d) and fecal (2 d) samples. True ileal and fecal P digestibility values and the ileal and fecal endogenous P outputs associated with SBM were determined by the regression analysis technique. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in true P digestibility values (ileal, 59.0 +/- 8.3 vs. fecal, 51.3 +/- 7.9%, n = 16) and endogenous P outputs (ileal, 0.59 +/- 0.18 vs. fecal, 0.45 +/- 0.21 g/kg of DMI, n = 16) between the ileal and the fecal levels. The endogenous fecal P loss accounted for 8.1 and 17.6% of the NRC (1998) recommended total and available P requirements in growing pigs, respectively. In conclusion, approximately 51% of the total P in conventional SBM is digested in growing pigs. The large intestine does not play an important role in the digestion of P associated with SBM in the growing pig. The fecal loss of the gastrointestinal endogenous P is an important route of P excretion in the growing pig.     

Fibre analysis and fibre digestibility in pet foods--a comparison of total dietary fibre, neutral and acid detergent fibre and crude fibre

Six dry dog foods and six dry cat foods with different carbohydrate sources were investigated in digestion trials. Food and faecal samples were analysed for CF, TDF and starch. In dogs, also neutral detergent fibre (aNDFom) and acid detergent fibre (ADFom) were analysed. N-free extract (NfE) was calculated for CF, and similarly for all other fibre analyses. Linear regressions were calculated between fibre intake and faecal fibre excretion. True digestibility was calculated from the regression coefficients [true digestibility in % = (1 - regression coefficient)*100], with the intercept of the equation representing excretion of material of non-food origin. Crude fibre analyses gave the lowest values, and TDF the highest, while ADFom and aNDFom were in between. Variation between diets was lowest in CF and highest in TDF. Total dietary fibre, aNDFom and ADFom in food were positively correlated. Crude fibre in food did not correlate with any other method. The NfE analogue for TDF was closest to the starch content. Methods of fibre analyses in faeces did not agree very well with each other. Crude fibre had the lowest apparent digestibility, followed by ADFom, TDF and aNDFom. For all fibre analyses, there was a significant correlation between fibre intake and faecal fibre excretion. True digestibility was close to zero for CF, with a high uniformity in both species. In dogs, true digestibility of aNDFom was 53%, of ADFom 26% and of TDF 37%; in cats, true digestibility of TDF was 31%. Except for CF, the intercept of the regression equations suggest that faecal excretion of some material of non-food origin is analysed as fibre. A combination of TDF and CF analyses might give good information on the content of total (TDF), unfermentable (CF) and partially fermentable fibre (TDF-CF) in pet foods.     

Effects of cooked navy bean powder on apparent total tract nutrient digestibility and safety in healthy adult dogs

Dry beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L., Fabaceae) are a low glycemic index food containing protein, fiber, minerals, essential vitamins, and bioactive compounds and have not been evaluated for inclusion in commercial canine diets. The objective of this study was to establish the apparent total tract digestibility and safety of cooked navy bean powder when incorporated into a canine diet formulation at 25% (wt/wt) compared with a macro- and micro-nutrient matched control. Twenty-one healthy, free-living, male and female adult dogs of different breeds were used in a randomized, blinded, placebo controlled, 28-d dietary intervention study. Apparent total tract energy and nutrient digestibility of the navy bean powder diet were compared with the control diet. Digestibilities and ME content were 68.58 and 68.89% DM, 78.22 and 79.49% CP, 77.57 and 74.91% OM, 94.49 and 93.85% acid hydrolyzed fat, and 3,313 and 3,195 kcal ME/kg for the navy bean diet and control diet, respectively. No differences were observed between the groups. No increased flatulence or major change in fecal consistency was observed. Navy bean powder at 25% (wt/wt) of total diet was determined to be palatable (on the basis of intake and observation) and digestible in a variety of dog breeds. No changes were detected in clinical laboratory values, including complete blood counts, blood biochemical profiles, and urinalysis in either the bean or control diet groups. These results indicate that cooked navy bean powder can be safely included as a major food ingredient in canine diet formulations and provide a novel quality protein source, and its use warrants further investigation as a functional food for chronic disease control and prevention.     

Overt signs of toxicity to dogs and cats of dietary deoxynivalenol

Studies were conducted to determine the dietary amounts of deoxynivalenol (DON; vomitoxin) in dog and cat food that are required to produce overt signs of toxicity (e.g., vomiting or reduced food intake). Wheat naturally contaminated with 37 mg of DON/kg was used to manufacture pet foods containing 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mg of DON/kg. Deoxynivalenol concentration in pet food following manufacture was unchanged, indicating that the toxin was stable during conventional extrusion processing. Dogs previously fed DON-contaminated food were able to preferentially select uncontaminated food. Dogs not previously exposed to DON-contaminated food consumed equal quantities of contaminated and uncontaminated food. There was no effect of 6 mg of DON/kg on dog food digestibility. Food intake of dogs was significantly reduced by DON concentrations greater than 4.5 +/- 1.7 mg/kg, and DON greater than 7.7 +/- 1.1 mg/kg reduced cat food intake. Vomiting by dogs and cats was commonly observed at the 8 and 10 mg DON levels.     

多重线性回归法测定猪内源磷排泄量及饲料磷真消化率的研究

本研究旨在采用多重线性回归法测定生长猪内源磷排泄量及高粱和豆粕中磷的真消化率。试验选用6头健康大白×长白阉公猪为消化试验动物,平均体重为(23.6±1.23)kg。采用6×6拉丁方设计,设6个磷水平(0.08%、0.15%、0.23%、0.30%、0.38%、0.53%),以豆粕、葡萄糖、玉米淀粉等为基础,以高粱和豆粕为磷唯一来源,配制半纯合试验饲粮。饲粮中添加0.35%Cr2O3作为外源指示剂。试验分6个试验期,每期8d,其中6d适应期,2d收粪期。饲粮中磷表观消化率受饲粮中磷水平的影响(P<0.05),并随饲粮中磷水平的提高由14.88%增大至34.88%。在以g/kgDMI为计量单位条件下,生长猪粪磷的排出量与饲粮磷的摄入量呈线性关系(P=0.0001)。结果表明,多重线性回归法可用于生长猪内源磷排泄量和植物性饲料磷真消化率的测定;以豆粕-高粱型模型饲粮测定出生长猪内源磷排泄量为0.2940g/kgDMI,高粱中磷的真消化率为56.05%,豆粕中磷的真消化率为39.41%。     

Apparent total tract energy and macronutrient digestibility and fecal fermentative end-product concentrations of domestic cats fed extruded, raw beef-based, and cooked beef-based diets

The objectives of this study were to determine differences in apparent total tract energy and macronutrient digestibility, fecal and urine characteristics, and serum chemistry of domestic cats fed raw and cooked meat-based diets and extruded diet. Nine adult female domestic shorthair cats were utilized in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design. Dietary treatments included a high-protein extruded diet (EX; 57% CP), a raw beef-based diet (RB; 53% CP), and a cooked beef-based diet (CB; 52% CP). Cats were housed individually in metabolic cages and fed to maintain BW. The study consisted of three 21-d periods. Each period included diet adaptation during d 0 to 16; fecal and urine sample collections during d 17 to 20; and blood sample collection at d 21. Food intake was measured daily. Total feces and urine were collected for determination of nutrient digestibility. In addition, a fresh urine sample was collected from each cat for urinalysis, and a fresh fecal sample was collected from each cat for determination of DM percentage and ammonia, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), and branched-chain fatty acid (BCFA) concentrations. All feces were scored after collection using a scale ranging from 1 (hard, dry pellets) to 5 (watery, liquid that can be poured). Blood was analyzed for serum metabolites. Apparent total tract DM, OM, CP, fat, and GE digestibilities were greater (P ≤ 0.05) in cats fed RB and CB than those fed EX. Total fecal SCFA concentrations did not differ among dietary treatments; however, molar ratios of SCFA were modified by diet, with cats fed RB and CB having an increased (P ≤ 0.05) proportion of fecal propionate and decreased (P ≤ 0.05) proportion of fecal butyrate compared with cats fed EX. Fecal concentrations of ammonia, isobutyrate, valerate, isovalerate, and total BCFA were greater (P ≤ 0.05) in cats fed EX compared with cats fed RB and CB. Our results indicated that cooking a raw meat diet does not alter apparent total tract energy and macronutrient digestibility and may also minimize risk of microbial contamination. Given the increasing popularity of feeding raw diets and the metabolic differences noted in this experiment, further research focused on the adequacy and safety of raw beef-based diets in domestic cats is justified.     

Comparison of wheat gluten and spray-dried animal plasma in diets for nursery pigs

Five experiments were conducted to determine the effects of different wheat gluten (WG) sources (Source 1 = enzymatically hydrolyzed, Source 2 = nonmodified ring-dried, Source 3 = spray-dried, and Source 4 = flash-dried) on growth performance of nursery pigs compared with soybean meal (SBM), spray-dried animal plasma (SDAP), or other specialty protein sources. In Exp. 1, pigs (n = 220, initially 6.1 +/- 2.5 kg) were fed a control diet containing (as-fed basis) 6% SDAP or WG Source 1 or 2. The WG and l-lysine*HCl replaced 50 or 100% of the SDAP. From d 0 to 21, increasing WG (either source) decreased ADG and ADFI (linear, P < 0.01), but improved (linear, P < 0.02) G:F. In Exp. 2, pigs (n = 252, initially 6.2 +/- 3.0 kg) were fed a negative control diet containing no SDAP or WG, diets containing (as-fed basis) 9% WG Source 1 or 5% SDAP, or combinations of WG and SDAP where WG and l-lysine*HCl replaced 25, 50, or 75% of SDAP. From d 0 to 14, pigs fed increasing WG had decreased ADG (linear, P < 0.05). In Exp. 3, pigs (n = 240, initially 7.0 +/- 2.5 kg) were fed a negative control diet, a diet containing (as-fed basis) either 3, 6, 9, or 12% WG Source 3, or a positive control diet containing 5% SDAP. The diets containing 9% WG and 5% SDAP had the same amount of SBM. From d 0 to 7, pigs fed 5% SDAP had greater (P < 0.04) ADG than pigs fed the diet containing 9% WG. From d 0 to 14, increasing WG had no effect on ADG, ADFI, or G:F. In Exp. 4, pigs (n = 200, initially 6.0 +/- 2.4 kg) were fed a negative control diet, the control diet with (as-fed basis) 4.5 or 9.0% WG Source 1, or the control diet with 2.5 or 5.0% SDAP. Diets containing WG and SDAP had similar SBM levels. From d 0 to 7 and 0 to 14, increasing SDAP tended to improve (linear, P < 0.06) ADG, but increasing WG had no effect. In Exp. 5, 170 barrows and gilts (initially 7.5 +/- 2.8 kg) were used to determine the effects of WG Source 1 and 4 compared with select Menhaden fish meal or spray-dried blood cells and a negative control diet (SBM) on the growth performance of nursery pigs from d 5 to 26 postweaning (d 0 to 21 of experiment). No differences were found in ADG or G:F, but pigs fed the diet containing (as-fed basis) 2.5% spray-dried blood cells had greater ADFI than pigs fed the negative control from d 0 to 21. Wheat gluten source had no effect on ADG, ADFI, or G:F. The results of these studies suggest that increasing WG in diets fed immediately after weaning did not improve growth performance relative to SBM or SDAP.     

A dose-response experiment evaluating the effects of oligofructose and inulin on nutrient digestibility, stool quality, and fecal protein catabolites in healthy adult dogs

In this experiment, three concentrations (0.3, 0.6, and 0.9% of diet, as-fed basis) of two fructans, oligofructose (OF) and inulin, were tested against a 0% supplemental fructan control. Seven ileal-cannulated adult female dogs were fed a meat-based, kibbled diet and assigned to treatments in a 7 x 7 Latin square design. Dietary supplementation of fructans had no effect on nutrient intakes or ileal digestibilities. Total-tract digestibilities of DM, OM, and CP decreased (P < 0.05) as a result of dietary OF and inulin supplementation. Dogs fed the control diet had a DM total-tract digestibility of 83.0%. The percentages of fecal DM for dogs fed the control and 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9% OF were 36.6, 33.3, 32.8, and 31.7%, respectively. When compared with the control, OF (P < 0.01) and inulin (P < 0.01) supplementation increased fecal ammonia concentrations. Higher fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA; P < 0.10) and isovalerate concentrations (P < 0.01) were noted for dogs fed both fructans. Total fecal SCFA for dogs fed the control diet and 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9% OF were 406.4, 529.9, 538.3, and 568.8 micromol/g of feces (DM basis), respectively. Dogs fed 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9% inulin had total fecal SCFA of 472.2, 468.8, and 471.5 micromol/g of feces (DM basis), respectively. Linear increases were observed in putrescine (P < 0.11), cadaverine (P < 0.07), spermidine (P < 0.12), and total amines (P < 0.05) in feces of dogs fed OF. Lower fecal phenol (P < 0.08) and total phenol (P < 0.04) concentrations occurred in dogs fed inulin, along with a linear decrease (P < 0.08) in total phenols with OF supplementation. Total fecal phenols for dogs fed the control, 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9% inulin were 3.03, 1.86, 1.97, and 2.23 micromol/g of feces (DM basis), respectively. Low-level dietary inclusion of inulin and OF positively affected indices known to be associated with gut health of the dog without seriously compromising nutrient digestibility or stool quality. Overall, the 0.9% OF treatment resulted in the best responses, including no adverse effect on nutrient intakes, ileal digestibilities, or stool quality, as well as increased fecal SCFA and decreased fecal phenols. The biological responses due to inulin were more variable.