Tag: Veterinary science

Animal products account for a substantial portion of nutrients in the human food supply, yet the foundation for this quality lies in the intricate biological processes governing animal health. This article delves into what is nutrition in animal physiology, examining how animals take in, process, and utilize food to fuel their life functions and achieve optimal performance.

According to the MSD Veterinary Manual, the fungicidal toxin persin is found in the avocado tree and is toxic to many animals, including birds, horses, and various ruminants. While harmless to humans in the concentrations found in the fruit, this compound poses a significant risk to certain pets and livestock.

According to extensive dairy research, manipulating the Dietary Cation-Anion Difference (DCAD) can significantly impact a cow's health and productivity. This nutritional concept measures the balance of positive and negative charged minerals in a ration, allowing for the strategic management of a cow's acid-base status, particularly during the transition period around calving.

Did you know that on a dry matter basis, a horse's hoof wall is composed of approximately 93% protein? The answer to "Is the hoof a protein?" is a resounding yes, though the full explanation involves a fascinating and complex biological structure. This hardy material, a marvel of evolutionary design, provides crucial protection for the animal.

According to agricultural experts, supplementing an animal's diet is often essential because primary forage and grains may not provide a balanced diet for optimal livestock growth and productivity, especially during different life stages. This is where a feed supplement becomes vital, providing the necessary nutrients to support overall animal health and performance.

Did you know that unlike many other mammals, cats cannot synthesize the essential amino acid taurine and must obtain it from their diet? A prime example of an essential nutrient in animals is also Vitamin B12, which is fundamental for crucial metabolic processes in a wide array of species, including dogs and cats.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) costs endemic regions an estimated $6.5 to $21 billion annually, highlighting that its impact extends far beyond the initial, visible symptoms. These secondary effects of FMD create long-term consequences for livestock health, farmer livelihoods, and national economies.

According to the MSD Veterinary Manual, water is often overlooked but is arguably the most important nutrient for an animal's survival. To sustain life, animals require a balanced intake of specific compounds through their diet, a process broadly referred to as animal nutrition. This article explores the five major types of animal nutrition and their vital functions.