Flashcards in Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Deck (8):
1
What enzyme do cats lack, that makes them unable to elongate linoleic acid?
delta 6 desaturase.
2
Because cats can't elongate linoleic acid, what fatty acid must be present in their diet?
arachidonic acid.
3
What fatty acid is required to produce ceramides? What animals require ceramides?
linoleic acid. All mammals require it.
4
This PUFA is rquired by dogs, NOT cats.
alpha-linolenic acid
5
What is arachidonic acid used for? Do dogs require this as well?
Needed for inflammation, the immune system, and cell membranes (makes 20-25% of total FA of cell membranes). Dogs do not require this.
6
If you start administering eicosapentaenoic acid, how long until you see the benefits?
12-14 WEEKS.
7
What are some clinical signs of essential fatty acid deficiency?
poor growth and weight gain, cutaneous changes, infertility and poor wound healing.
8