Unit 1 Immune System & Unit 2 Basic Nutrients

Species Comparison

What are foreign molecules that stimulate an immune response called?

Antigens.

Define passive immunity.

Immunity obtained from drinking colostrum or injected as a vaccine.

Define active immunity.

Immunity established after infection.

When does the primary immune response occur?

In the first days after invasion of the antigen.

When does the secondary immune response occur?

It prevents a second episode of the same disease.

What is a persistently infected (PI) calf in BVD?

A calf that survives the initial infection but sheds the virus and mounts no immune response to that strain.

Why are PI calves a threat to the herd?

They intermittently shed virus, increasing disease risk in the herd and often have suppressed immunity; the surviving PI can be the greatest threat.

What is autoimmune hemolytic anemia?

An immune disorder in which antibodies bind to antigens on red blood cells, causing their destruction.

How is autoimmune hemolytic anemia treated?

Immunosuppressive medications to hinder the immune response; blood transfusions may be needed; ongoing monitoring for further episodes.

Why is colostrum quality important for newborn immunity?

Higher quality colostrum leads to more antibodies absorbed by the newborn, enhancing passive immunity.

What does seroconversion mean in antibody testing?

The development of detectable antibodies in the blood following infection or vaccination.

Name the six major components of animal diets.

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

What are the roles of carbohydrates in the diet?

Provide energy; supply bulk/fiber; form glucose; help in lactose production in milk; can be stored as glycogen.

Give examples of monosaccharides.

Glucose and fructose.

Give an example of a disaccharide and its components.

Lactose = glucose + galactose.

What is the difference between starch and cellulose bonds and their digestibility?

Starch has alpha bonds and is digestible by amylase; cellulose has beta bonds and is not digestible by mammalian enzymes but may be fermented by gut microbes.

What is dietary fiber and its effect on digestion?

Polysaccharides with beta bonds that are not digested by mammals; fermented by gut microbes; slows stomach emptying and increases stool bulk.

What roles do fats (lipids) play in nutrition?

Energy source; insulation and protection; source of essential fatty acids; aids in absorption of fat-soluble vitamins; component of cell membranes; contributes to palatability.

Which essential fatty acid is required by cats that is not necessarily required by dogs?

Arachidonic acid.

Which macronutrients provide energy?

Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats (lipids).

What are the typical energy values for carbohydrates, protein, and fat in dog/cat foods?

About 3.5 kcal/g for carbohydrates and protein; about 8.7 kcal/g for fat (adjusted for digestion efficiency in animals).

Name the two classes of vitamins and how they are stored.

Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) are stored in fat and can be toxic in excess; water-soluble vitamins (B complex and C) are not stored and usually require daily intake.

Which vitamin toxicity is associated with some rodenticides?

Vitamin D toxicity, causing severe hypercalcemia and organ damage.

What is the difference between macrominerals and microminerals (trace minerals)?

Macrominerals are required in larger amounts (e.g., Ca, P, Na, K, Mg, Cl, S); microminerals are needed in smaller amounts (e.g., Co, Cu, I, Fe, Mn, Se, Zn, Mo).

What units are commonly used for macrominerals vs microminerals?

Macrominerals are usually expressed as a percentage of dry matter; microminerals are expressed in parts per million (ppm).

What is the purpose of a dry matter basis in forage analysis (e.g., alfalfa haylage)?

To compare nutrient concentrations independently of moisture content by removing water; allows conversions between as-fed and dry matter basis.

What is salt toxicity and how does it occur in cattle?

Excessive salt intake with restricted water leads to severe hypernatremia and brain edema; symptoms include ataxia and death; often occurs when water is scarce or salt is ingested in excess.

What is polioencephalomalacia (PEM) and its typical cause in ruminants?

Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency often due to thiaminase-producing rumen organisms on high-grain diets; signs include ataxia, inability to rise, and blindness; treated with thiamine injections.

Why is taurine important for cats?

Cats cannot synthesize adequate taurine; deficiency can cause retinal damage, pregnancy failure, growth problems, and dilated cardiomyopathy; supplementation is essential.

What is the concept of biologic value in protein sources?

A measure of protein quality based on how efficiently the amino acids in the protein meet the animal’s needs; higher BV means better utilization and less waste.