Unit 1, 4 Nutrients, Water

What are the six nutrient categories in small animal nutrition?

Carbohydrates, protein, fats (lipids), vitamins, minerals, water.

What do nutrients contribute to in the body?

Growth and maintenance, structural components, reproduction, chemical reactions, transport, temperature regulation, and energy supply.

What is an essential nutrient?

A nutrient the body cannot produce in adequate amounts and must be supplied in the diet.

What is a non‑essential nutrient?

A nutrient the body can synthesize; may be supplied by diet or produced internally.

Can one ingredient supply all required nutrients?

No; pet foods use multiple ingredients to provide a balanced nutrient profile.

Which nutrient is needed in the largest amount?

Water.

What percentage of an adult animal's body is water?

About 70%.

What percentage of a newborn's body is water?

Up to 80%.

What percentage of an older animal's body may be water?

As low as 50%.

How much water is required relative to dry matter intake?

2-3 parts water per 1 part dry matter eaten.

How much body fat can an animal lose and still live?

Almost all of it.

How much body protein can an animal lose and still live?

Up to half.

What percentage of body water loss can be fatal?

Over 10%.

How long can an animal live without water?

1-2 weeks.

What are the functions of water in the body?

Solvent for reactions, transport, temperature regulation, absorbs metabolic heat, environment for digestion/absorption, essential for hydrolysis, protects joints/brain/spinal cord.

What daily losses require constant water replacement?

Urine, feces, respiration, perspiration.

What increases water consumption?

Habit, salt/electrolytes, exertion, high temperature, fever, lactation, diarrhea, hemorrhage, polyuria.

Do all cats and dogs require constant access to water?

Yes.

At what percentage of body water loss do cats begin drinking voluntarily?

About 8%.

At what percentage of body water loss do dogs begin drinking?

About 4%.

Daily water requirement (ml/day) is roughly equal to what?

The number of kcal consumed.

What factors increase water needs?

Increased caloric intake, exercise, lactation, pregnancy.

What are the three sources of daily water intake?

Drinking water, food, metabolic water.

What is metabolic water?

Water formed when hydrogen ions from nutrients combine with oxygen during energy metabolism.

How much metabolic water is produced per 100 kcal?

10-16 ml.

What percentage of total daily water intake comes from metabolic water?

5-10%.

How much water is in dry food?

7-12%.

How much water is in canned food?

Up to 78%.

Can a cat maintain water balance on high‑moisture canned food alone?

Yes, it is possible but not recommended.

Why might owners of canned‑fed pets report little drinking?

Because canned food contains high moisture.