Skip to main content
menu sluit menu
Home Home
Login
Main navigation
  • Library
  • Calendar
  • e-Learning
  • News
    • Veterinary News In this section you find veterinary news
    • Recent Additions All content that was recently added to the IVIS library
  • Get involved
    • Donate Support IVIS, make a donation today
    • Media kit Promote your e-learning & events on IVIS
    • Add your e-learning & events to the IVIS calendar
    • Publish on IVIS Publish your work with us
  • About
    • Mission Our Mission Statement
    • What we do More info about IVIS and what we do
    • Who we are More info about the IVIS team
    • Authors See list of all IVIS authors and editors
  • Contact
User tools menu
User tools menu
Main navigation
  • Library
  • Calendar
  • e-Learning
  • News
    • Veterinary News In this section you find veterinary news
    • Recent Additions All content that was recently added to the IVIS library
  • Get involved
    • Donate Support IVIS, make a donation today
    • Media kit Promote your e-learning & events on IVIS
    • Add your e-learning & events to the IVIS calendar
    • Publish on IVIS Publish your work with us
  • About
    • Mission Our Mission Statement
    • What we do More info about IVIS and what we do
    • Who we are More info about the IVIS team
    • Authors See list of all IVIS authors and editors
  • Contact
Follow IVIS
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
Support IVIS

Breadcrumb

  1. Home
  2. Library
  3. Encyclopedia of Canine Clinical Nutrition
  4. Royal Canin Nutritional Information
Encyclopedia of Canine Clinical Nutrition
Back to Table of Contents
Add to My Library
Close
Would you like to add this to your library?

Get access to all handy features included in the IVIS website

  • Get unlimited access to books, proceedings and journals.
  • Get access to a global catalogue of meetings, on-site and online courses, webinars and educational videos.
  • Bookmark your favorite articles in My Library for future reading.
  • Save future meetings and courses in My Calendar and My e-Learning.
  • Ask authors questions and read what others have to say.
Sign in Register
Comments
Print this article
Share:
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Mail
  • Twitter

Royal Canin Nutritional Information

Author(s):
Fleeman L.M. and
Rand J.S.
In: Encyclopedia of Canine Clinical Nutrition by Pibot P. et al.
Updated:
MAR 31, 2008
Languages:
  • DE
  • EN
  • ES
  • FR
  • IT
Back to Table of Contents
Add to My Library
Close
Would you like to add this to your library?

Get access to all handy features included in the IVIS website

  • Get unlimited access to books, proceedings and journals.
  • Get access to a global catalogue of meetings, on-site and online courses, webinars and educational videos.
  • Bookmark your favorite articles in My Library for future reading.
  • Save future meetings and courses in My Calendar and My e-Learning.
  • Ask authors questions and read what others have to say.
Sign in Register
Print this article
SHARE:
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Mail
  • Twitter
    Read

    Royal Canin Nutritional Information

    Cataracts
    Cataracts are the most common complication among diabetic dogs. The risk increases as the dog grows older. The word comes from the Greek word kataraktès (rupture) where the crystalline lens loses its transparency and the eye has a gray-blue opalescence. (©Didier Schmidt-Morand).

    Key Points with respect to:

    The Role of Nutrition in the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs

    Rather than a traditional maintenance diet for adult dogs, the diet recommended for diabetic dogs and bitches presenting with diestrus-associated insulin resistance must meet the following key criteria:

    • High palatability to guarantee regular consumption.
    • Limited starch content (<50% carbohydrate calories): there is a correlation between the starch content and the dog's glycemic response (Nguyen et al., 1998). It is easy to lower the starch content below 30% even in dry foods. If the pancreas no longer functions (which is more often the case in dogs), it is important to adjust the insulin dose to the starch intake every time the diet is changed. When the starch content of a diet is reduced, the insulin dose must also be reduced.
    • High glycemic index starches such as rice and bread should be avoided in diabetic dogs. It is preferable to fed cereals with starch that is digested more slowly, facilitating slower, prolonged absorption of glucose. Low glycemic index cereals include corn, wheat, barley and sorghum.
    • A diet with a higher fiber content compared with a standard maintenance diet for adult dogs may not be particularly beneficial for diabetic dogs. The optimal fiber content depends on the dog's physical condition, the level and source of the starch and the nature of the fiber used.
    • Every type of fiber has its own particular properties, therefore intake of fiber from different sources is important.

    - Insoluble, non-fermentable fiber (e.g., cellulose) is well tolerated, even in large quantities. Varying the content of this type of fiber permits the adaptation of the energy density of a food to the dog’s physical condition.
    - Soluble, non-fermentable fiber (e.g., fructo-oligosaccharides) improves glucose tolerance.
    - Insoluble, non-fermentable fiber (e.g., psyllium) impacts the speed of transit through the intestine and the release of glucose.

    NB. Beet pulp contains both insoluble and non-fermentable fiber, and soluble and non-fermentable fiber.

    • The ideal fat content depends on the physical condition of the dog, but diets with a high fat content should be avoided in diabetic dogs, due to the associated risk of pancreatitis. An intake of 20 - 35% lipid calories appears to be sufficient, unless the dog is in poor body condition. There is an inverse correlation between the dietary fat content and the postprandial glycemic and insulinemic responses (Prudhomme et al., 1999). This effect is probably a consequence of deceleration of gastric emptying associated with high fat foods.
    • If the food contains moderate starch, fiber and fat content, the protein will be the main source of energy. There are no negative effects associated with providing at least 30% - 45% protein calories in the food. High protein intake helps compensate for the catabolism of protein and increased gluconeogenesis in diabetic dogs, especially when the diabetes has not been properly stabilized.
    • An L-carnitine supplement helps maintain the lean body mass.
    • Diets for diabetic dogs must contain mineral and trace-element levels similar to those for non-diabetic dogs. Particular attention should be given to potassium to avoid deficiencies.
    • The level of water soluble vitamins should be increased to compensate for losses due to polyuria.
    • Oxidative stress is involved in the pathophysiology of diabetes. Therefore, appropriate supplementation with a blend of antioxidants is recommended.

    Points to be Monitored by the Owner of a Diabetic Dog

    The quantities of water and food consumed by the dog

    Polydipsia (accompanied by polyuria), anorexia or conversely polyphagia may be signs of poor diabetic control

    The dog’s body weight

    Changes in body weight may require modification of the insulin dosage. Obesity is a risk factor contributing to insulin resistance

    The dog’s level of activity

    Regular physical activity should be included in the list of preventative measures to reduce the incidence of canine diabetes mellitus (Hedhammar et al., 2005)

    The timing of meals

    This is essential for successful treatment. Dividing the ration into two meals a day helps minimize the hyperglycemic peaks, regardless of the type of diabetes. With insulin therapy, the meals should ideally be served just after the insulin peaks, which vary according to the individual and the type of insulin administered

    The composition of the meal

    The appropriate food should not be changed after selection, as both the quantity and the type of carbohydrate ingested have a direct impact on the postprandial glycemic and insulinemic responses. Supplements, especially sugary treats or food rich in carbohydrates should not be given to dogs with diabetes mellitus

    A few simple rules help prevent complications with diabetes mellitus in dogs.

    Focus on: The Effect of Dietary Fiber on Gastro-intestinal Transit

    Dietary fiber plays a major role in gastro-intestinal transit, although it should be noted that the action differs depending on whether it is soluble or insoluble fiber.

    Soluble fiber

    In contact with water, soluble fiber (pectins, gums, oligosaccharides, etc) forms a gel or a viscous solution. The viscosity of this type of fiber tends to slow down gastro-intestinal transit due to the simple increase in flow-through resistance (Guilford, 1996).

    The effect of fiber on the quality of stools varies according to its ability to be fermented by colonic bacteria. With the exception of psyllium, most types of soluble fiber are degraded by the microflora of the large intestine. The bacteria flora use the fermentable fiber as an energy source, and in the process, generate fermentation products such as short chain fatty acids and lactic acid which have a trophic effect on the colonic mucosa.

    Capacity of in vitro fermentation of several dietary fibers
    Figure 7. Capacity of in vitro fermentation of several dietary fibers (from Sunvold et al., 1994).

    However, a excess quantities of fermentable fiber in a diet is detrimental to digestive tolerance. A diet rich in fermentable fiber (pectins, guar gums) increases the water content and the volume of the feces (Wiernusz, 1995; Silvio et al., 2000). Furthermore, the fermentation products may induce osmotic diarrhea by attracting free water into the intestinal lumen. These effects are mainly due to proliferation of the bacterial biomass produced.

    Insoluble fiber

    Insoluble fiber regulates transit, accelerating it during constipation and decelerating it during diarrhea (Guilford, 1996).

    Insoluble fiber is not generally degraded by the microflora of the colon. As a consequence, insoluble fiber is excreted almost fully intact in the stools. The capacity to increase the indigestible residue of feces contributes to fecal consistency as well as increasing the volume of stools (Silvio et al., 2000). An excess quantity of insoluble fiber in a food is also detrimental to its good digestibility.

    Back to Table of Contents
    Add to My Library
    Close
    Would you like to add this to your library?

    Get access to all handy features included in the IVIS website

    • Get unlimited access to books, proceedings and journals.
    • Get access to a global catalogue of meetings, on-site and online courses, webinars and educational videos.
    • Bookmark your favorite articles in My Library for future reading.
    • Save future meetings and courses in My Calendar and My e-Learning.
    • Ask authors questions and read what others have to say.
    Sign in Register
    Print this article
    References

    1. Guilford WG. Nutritional management of gastrointestinal diseases. In: Strombeck's Small Animal Gastroenterology. 3rd Ed. Philadelphia: WB Saunders Co, 1996:889-910.

    2. Hedhammar A, Sallander M, Klinkenberg H. Diabetes in dogs: feeding, exercise and weight as possible predisposing factors. In: Proceedings of Waltham Int Nutri Sci Symp, Washington 2005 ; Innovations in Companion Animal Nutrition: 30.

    ...
    Show all
    Comments (0)

    Ask the author

    0 comments
    Submit
    Close
    Would to like to further discuss this item?

    Get access to all handy features included in the IVIS website

    • Get unlimited access to books, proceedings and journals.
    • Get access to a global catalogue of meetings, on-site and online courses, webinars and educational videos.
    • Bookmark your favorite articles in My Library for future reading.
    • Save future meetings and courses in My Calendar and My e-Learning.
    • Ask authors questions and read what others have to say.
    Sign in Register
    About

    How to reference this publication (Harvard system)?

    Fleeman, L. M. and Rand, J. S. (2008) “Royal Canin Nutritional Information”, Encyclopedia of Canine Clinical Nutrition. Available at: https://www.ivis.org/library/encyclopedia-of-canine-clinical-nutrition/royal-canin-nutritional-information-4 (Accessed: 28 January 2023).

    Affiliation of the authors at the time of publication

    1School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, MA, USA.2School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Australia.

    Author(s)

    • Fleeman L.M.

      Senior Lecturer
      BVSc MACVSc PhD
      University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Small Animal Medicine
      Read more about this author
    • Rand J.S.

      BVSc DVSc DACVIM
      Centre for Companion Animal Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland
      Read more about this author

    Copyright Statement

    © All text and images in this publication are copyright protected and cannot be reproduced or copied in any way.
    Related Content

    Readers also viewed these publications

    • Journal Issue

      Veterinary Evidence - Vol 8 N°1, Jan-Mar 2023

      In: Veterinary Evidence
      JAN 28, 2023
    • Journal Issue

      Veterinary Evidence - Vol 7 N°4, Oct-Dec 2022

      In: Veterinary Evidence
      JAN 16, 2023
    • Proceeding

      SFT - Theriogenology Annual Conference - Bellevue, 2022

      By: Society for Theriogenology
      JAN 10, 2023
    • Journal Issue

      Urgencias y cuidados intensivos - Argos N°244, Diciembre 2022

      In: Argos
      DEC 31, 2022
    • Proceeding

      ISCFR-EVSSAR Symposium - Italy 2022

      By: International Symposium on Canine and Feline Reproduction
      DEC 02, 2022
    • Journal Issue

      Patología endocrina - Argos N°243, Noviembre 2022

      In: Argos
      NOV 27, 2022
    • Journal Issue

      Traumatología y neurología - Argos Nº242, Octubre 2022

      In: Argos
      NOV 10, 2022
    • Chapter

      Tibia and Tarsus

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      NOV 07, 2022
    • Chapter

      Femur and Stifle Joint

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      OCT 28, 2022
    • Journal Issue

      Medicina felina - Argos Nº241, Septiembre 2022

      In: Argos
      OCT 24, 2022
    • Chapter

      Sacroiliac Joint, Pelvis, and Hip Joint

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      OCT 17, 2022
    • Journal Issue

      Veterinary Evidence - Vol 7 N°2, Apr-Jun 2022

      In: Veterinary Evidence
      OCT 07, 2022
    • Journal Issue

      Veterinary Evidence - Vol 7 N°3, Jul-Sep 2022

      In: Veterinary Evidence
      OCT 04, 2022
    • Chapter

      Amputation of the Forelimb

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      OCT 02, 2022
    • Journal Issue

      Israel Journal of Veterinary Medicine - Vol. 77(3), Sep. 2022

      In: Israel Journal of Veterinary Medicine
      SEP 30, 2022
    • Chapter

      Carpus, Metacarpus, and Phalanges

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      SEP 26, 2022
    • Chapter

      Radius and Ulna

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      SEP 16, 2022
    • Chapter

      Humerus and Elbow Joint

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      SEP 10, 2022
    • Chapter

      Scapula and Shoulder Joint

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      SEP 05, 2022
    • Chapter

      Bone Grafts and Implants

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      SEP 03, 2022
    • Chapter

      External Skeletal Fixation

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      AUG 28, 2022
    • Chapter

      Plate-Rod Fixation

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      AUG 18, 2022
    • Chapter

      Fixation with Screws and Bone Plates

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      AUG 15, 2022
    • Journal Issue

      Israel Journal of Veterinary Medicine - Vol. 77(2), Jun. 2022

      In: Israel Journal of Veterinary Medicine
      AUG 12, 2022
    • Chapter

      Interlocking Nailing of Canine and Feline Fractures

      In: Current Techniques in Small Animal Surgery (5th Edition)
      AUG 11, 2022
    • Load more
    Back To Top
    Become a member of IVIS and get access to all our resources
    Create an account
    Sign in
    Leading the way in providing veterinary information
    About IVIS
    • Mission
    • What we do
    • Who we are
    Need help?
    • Contact
    Follow IVIS
    • Twitter
    • Facebook
    International Veterinary Information Service (IVIS) is a not-for-profit organization established to provide information to veterinarians, veterinary students, technicians and animal health professionals worldwide using Internet technology.
    Support IVIS
    © 2023 International Veterinary Information Service
    • Disclaimer
    • Privacy Policy