Weight Management - Notes (AI) Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is the primary benefit of nutrition management in pets?
Prolongs & improves quality of life for pet
Nutrition management also increases client satisfaction.
What role does the veterinary technician play in nutrition management?
Integral to nutritional education of client and nursing care of pet
Technicians must understand both physiologic and disease processes.
What should a veterinary technician conduct and record for a complete history?
Complete history including feeding history
It is important to know the owner and their relationship with the pet.
What is included in a patient assessment by a veterinary technician?
Weight and Body Condition Score (BCS)
Observations from in-house nursing should also be recorded.
What are the goals of therapeutic nutrition?
- Improve the quality of life
- Delay progression of disease
- Prolong duration of life
What are the steps involved in nutrition as therapy?
- Understand the disease process
- Determine goals for managing the disease
- Determine Key Nutritional Factors (KNF)
- Choose appropriate product (diet)
- Implement the plan
- Monitor effectiveness and compliance
What are Key Nutritional Factors (KNF) in managing pet health?
- Decrease excessive nutrient intake
- Increase specific nutrient levels
- Create specific physiological response
What is the most common form of malnutrition in dogs?
Obesity
This condition leads to various health complications.
What health issues are associated with obesity in canine health?
- Increased musculoskeletal disease
- Increased respiratory & cardiac disease
- Increased pancreatic disease
- Increased lower urinary tract disease
- Decreased quality of life
What health risks are associated with obesity in feline health?
- Increased risk for Diabetes mellitus
- Increased risk for Hepatic lipidosis
- Increased risk for Urethral obstruction in males
- Increased risk for Osteoarthritis
What are pet-related factors influencing obesity?
- Activity level
- Breed risk
- Gender
- Spay/Neuter
- Age
- Endocrine disease
What are owner-related factors that can influence pet obesity?
- Activity level
- Awareness of ideal weight
- Affection
What food-related factors can influence obesity in pets?
- Feeding method
- Amount
- Palatability
What steps can be taken to manage obesity in pets?
- Educate owners to recognize the problem
- Evaluate for underlying causative factors
- Develop Care Plan
Why is Carnitine added to a pet’s diet?
Reduces body fat from 40% to 16% and increases lean body mass by 7%
Carnitine plays a role in fat metabolism.
What is the benefit of adding fiber to a pet’s diet?
Increases feeling of satiety
This can help reduce begging behaviors.
What are effective strategies to inspire success in managing pet obesity?
- Monitor weight & Body Score
- Monthly technician appointments
- Phone call reminders
- Outline Exercise Plan
- Provide healthy treat options
What are some specific healthy treat options for pets?
- Carrot sticks or apple pieces
- Frozen green beans or blueberries
- Air-popped popcorn or rice cake bits
What client engagement strategies can help in managing pet obesity?
- Before & After photos
- Prizes for achieving goals
- Contests within clinic
