S23B - Be Lean with Protein: Proactive Spay/Neuter Nutrition

No one would dispute that protein is an essential nutrient supplying the essential amino acids that are key to survival and optimal health. Amino acids have numerous important bodily functions as they are critical in the synthesis, maintenance, and repair of cells, tissues, and organs. They also serve as transport molecules, enzymes, hormones, antibodies and finally as an energy source for both cats and dogs. We have guidelines for minimal and recommended requirements for total protein and essential amino acids for the individual pet and for commercial pet foods, but these may not be the OPTIMAL intakes. For example, it is well known that our spay and neutered patients are at an increased risk for overweight and obesity with the removal of sex hormones causing an increase in appetite and a reduction of metabolic rate i.e. daily caloric requirement. Selecting diets for the spay/neuter patients with increased amounts of digestible protein and ample essential amino acids may encourage satiety, suppress appetite, and support optimal muscle mass development. As veterinarians, we can utilize the “benefits of proteins” as proactive nutrition management for our S/N pets.