ABSTRACT: It is well known that overweight pets do not live as long as leaner pets, and as little as a 20 per cent increase in body weight can increase the risk of conditions such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, leading to a reduction in the lifespan of a well-loved pet

In cases of obesity, specific genes associated with fat burning are down-regulated, and this results in the storage of excess fat. Specialised diets are now available that consist of nutrients which are able to change the metabolic profile of an obese animal to that of a lean animal. These diets also help to regulate the appetite and reduce the inflammatory responses that occur as a consequence of the effects of obesity.

Author

Sian Norris BSC (Hons), RVN

Sian graduated from the University of Reading in 2001 with a Degree in Animal Science. During her spare time at University Sian worked as a veterinary nurse and after graduating went on to gain her qualification as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in 2004. Sian currently works as a dietary consultant at Hill’s Pet Nutrition.

Keywords: Clinical, Nutrigenomics, Conditions

To cite this article: Veterinary Nursing Journal • VOL 28 (08) • June 2013 • pp190-191

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